If you have toilet rust stains, there are a few ways to remove them. But first, let’s figure out how they got there in the first place.
What Causes Toilet Rust Stains?
One of the most common causes of toilet rust stains is the water itself. If your water is high in iron, it can cause corrosion and discoloration of your toilet bowl. Additionally, the minerals in the water can also lead to rusting if you have hard water.
If you live in an old building or home, the iron in your water might come from your pipes. The pipes might be breaking down due to age, and it could be a good idea to call in a plumber to assess the situation.
Another common cause of toilet rust stains is using a cleaner that contains bleach or other harsh chemicals. These products can eat away at the porcelain of your toilet, causing it to become stained and discolored.
How Do You Remove Toilet Rust Stains?
There are a few different ways that you can go about removing rust stains from toilets. One popular method is to use a rust remover. These products break down the rust and remove it from the surface of your toilet.
Toilet Bowl Cleaner
The first thing to try is your toilet bowl cleaner. It’s probably already stocked in your pantry. To use it, squirt some onto the rust stain and let it sit for a few minutes. Scrub it with a toilet brush and see if you can lift the rust away.
Pumice Stone
Another option for removing rust stains is to use a pumice stone. This method works best if the rust stain is fresh and has not had time to set in. To use this method, wet the pumice stone and rub it over the rust stain. The pumice will remove the rust and leave your toilet looking clean and new.
Baking Soda
If you do not have a rust remover or pumice stone, you can also try using baking soda. This home remedy is known for removing stains and cleaning surfaces. This method uses a paste out of baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the rust stain and let it sit for about an hour. After it has had time to work, use a brush to scrub the area clean. You may need to do this a few times to remove the rust stain altogether.
Vinegar
Another home remedy to remove rust stains is vinegar. Vinegar is known for its ability to clean and disinfect surfaces. To use vinegar to remove rust stains:
- Create a mixture of equal parts vinegar and water.
- Apply the mixture to the rust stain and let it sit for about an hour.
- After an hour, scrub the area with a brush to loosen the rust stain.
- Flush the toilet to remove the stain.
Commercial Rust Remover
If you have a rust stain that is proving difficult to remove, you may need to resort to a commercial rust remover. Most hardware stores carry commercial rust remover. Follow the instructions on the product label carefully to avoid damaging your toilet.
Baking Soda and Vinegar
If you want to try a more natural rust removal method, you can make a paste out of baking soda and vinegar. Apply the paste to the rust stain and let it sit for several hours before scrubbing with a toilet brush.
Lemon Juice
Lemon juice is another natural rust removal option. Soak a rag in lemon juice and apply it to the stain. Let the lemon juice sit on the stain for at least an hour before scrubbing.
Vinegar and Water
You can also try using a vinegar and water solution. Mix equal parts vinegar and water and apply it to the rust stain. Let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing the area with a brush or sponge.
Once the rust stain is gone, flush the toilet to remove any residual vinegar solution.
Bleach
You can try using a bleach and water solution if you have a more stubborn rust stain. Be sure to use gloves when handling bleach, as it can be harsh on your skin. To use this method, mix one part bleach with three parts water. Apply the solution to the rust stain and let it sit for several minutes. Then, scrub the area with a brush or sponge. Once the rust stain is gone, flush the toilet several times to remove any residual bleach solution.
Coca-Cola
Did you know that you can use Coca-Cola to remove rust? The acidic properties in Coke make it an excellent rust removal solution. To use this method:
- Pour a can of Coke into a bowl and let the rust stain soak for several minutes.
- Once the stain has soaked, scrub the area with a brush or sponge. If the rust stain is stubborn, you may need to let it soak for longer.
- Once the rust stain is gone, flush the toilet several times to remove any residual Coke.
Is the Rust Stain Still There?
If you’re still having trouble removing the toilet rust stain, you may need to call in a professional. A plumber or other professional may be able to help you remove the rust stain and get your toilet looking new again. Call Certified Plumbing of Brevard so that we can help you with all your plumbing needs.
How to Keep the Stain Away
No one wants to see toilet rust stains, but they can happen. Toilet rust stains are usually the result of mineral deposits in the water. These deposits can build up over time and cause ugly brown or orange stains. You can do a few things to prevent toilet rust stains, or at least keep them to a minimum.
Use a toilet rust remover. There are several products on the market specifically designed to remove toilet rust stains. If you have hard water, it might be a good idea to use one of these products regularly.
Cut down on the amount of toilet paper you use. Toilet paper can contribute to toilet rust stains. If you use a lot of toilet paper, try switching to a thinner brand or using less.
Use a toilet brush. A toilet brush can help remove any deposits already built up on the toilet bowl. Be sure to clean the brush after each use to prevent the build-up of toilet rust stains.
Try a toilet cleaner with bleach. Bleach is an effective cleaning agent and can help remove toilet rust stains. Be sure to follow the directions on the toilet cleaner to avoid damaging your toilet.
If you’re still having trouble removing toilet rust stains, you may need to call a professional at Certified Plumbing of Brevard. They will have the tools and experience necessary to remove the stains safely and tips to keep the stains from coming back.
