No matter how much you clean your toilets, those rust stains never seem to go away. And although you know the toilets are clean, you don’t like the look of that buildup! Keep reading to learn how to remove your current rust stains from your toilets, plus prevent further ones from forming.
Cleaning Current Rust Stains
The Preparation
You’ll need to start by investing in the right supplies. As much as you may be tempted, stay away from using bleach. Instead of removing your existing rust stain, it may make it worse. Instead, make your own cleaning solution using one part vinegar, one part water, and three parts baking soda. The result is a paste that can effectively remove stains without creating damage.
As for your scrubbing tool, choose something strong enough to chip away at rust stains but not so strong that it will cause scratches to the porcelain in your toilet. Selecting a non-abrasive brush is best.
Remember to stay safe throughout the rust removal process by wearing protective eye goggles and gloves. This will also help keep you clean.
The Rust Removal Process
Before you get scrubbing, turn off your water supply using the valve in the back of the bowl. If you are having difficulty finding that, you can turn off your entire home’s water supply.
Next, remove as much water as possible from your toilet bowl. The less water that’s in there, the less likely you’ll get splashed during the rust removal process. Having less water in the way also makes it easier to clean the rust stain.
If you’re not getting the results you want from your homemade cleaning solution, try a commercial cleaning product like Borax.
Continue scrubbing the area until the stain is removed, then thoroughly clean up your work area.
Preventing Future Rust Stains
Once you remove your current rust stains, it’s time to ensure you won’t have to deal with them again.
You can start by maintaining a regular bathroom cleaning schedule. Doing so keeps surfaces clean and prevents the formation of iron and other deposits.
Investing in a water softener system is a great way to eliminate your rust problem at the source. These products remove iron and other mineral deposits in the water before they have a chance to settle in your toilets. There are even certain softener salts that are made to prevent rust.
Like installing a water softener, installing a water filtration system can help filter iron and other particles from entering your household’s water supply.
Upgrading your piping system is another option. Having new copper or PEX piping rather than old iron pipes will make a big difference when it comes to your fight against rust!
The Bottom Line
If you’ve done everything you can to get rid of rust stains and they’re just not going away, it may be time to call in the professionals. Contact the friendly team at A. McKenna Plumbing today to get help eliminating your rust problem for good!