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As we all know, rust has a way of showing itself most often in the most undramatic of ways. The rust stains in the toilet are one of those undramatic issues that can become downright irritating when brought to our attention.
Because all it seems to do is remain and not go away.
So, if you are wondering how to remove rust stains from the toilet, hopefully, this article can help you get rid of them. We’ll also discuss what causes these rust stains and how to prevent them.
Causes of Rust Stains on Toilet
There are many causes of rust stains on toilets. It can result from your water being hard or soft and the age of your toilet and its parts.
Hard Water
If you live in an area with hard water, then it is likely that your toilet bowl has accumulated rust stains over time. Hard water contains minerals such as iron and manganese, which can cause rust stains on porcelain surfaces.
Toilet Age
The older a toilet gets, the more likely it is to develop rust stains in its bowl. This is because older toilets were made with inferior materials to modern ones; therefore, they are more likely to show wear and tear after many years of use.
Overflowing Toilet Bowls
Overflowing toilet bowls are one of the main reasons why you see rust stains on toilets. The overflow happens when you flush more than once after using the toilet bowl. It can also happen if you do not put enough liquid in the bowl before flushing it out.
Water Supply Contains Iron
Toilets are made from porcelain, which is made from clay, coal, lime, and other materials. The toilets’ porcelain can be sensitive to many chemicals and minerals, including iron. Water containing high levels of iron can react with the porcelain and create a rust stain.
Copper Pipes
The most common cause of rust stains on toilets is copper piping. Copper pipes can leach into the water and leave a reddish or brownish stain on the toilet bowl. This is especially true if you live in an older home with copper plumbing.
Poorly Installed Plumbing System
If the toilet is leaking, then it could be that the pipes are not installed properly, or they are broken or cracked. This will lead to water seeping out of the pipe joints and allowing rust to form inside the pipe.
7 Ways to Remove Rust Stains from Toilet?
Boiling Water
The easiest way to remove rust stains from your toilet is by using boiling water. Pour some hot water into the bowl, let it sit for about 10 minutes, then scrub with an abrasive brush or sponge. After scrubbing, rinse with cold water to avoid cracking the porcelain surface.
Chemical Toilet Bowl Cleaner
A chemical toilet bowl cleaner is one of the easiest ways to remove rust stains from a toilet. However, before using a chemical cleaner, you must ensure that there is no water in the tank. If water is in the tank, flush it first by opening the valve and letting it drain completely.
After draining any remaining water from inside the tank, pour some of your chosen chemical cleaners into the toilet bowl and let it sit for about 15 minutes. The longer you leave it to soak, the better. Then scrub with a brush or sponge until all traces of stain are gone.
Use Vinegar And Baking Soda
Mix equal parts white vinegar and baking soda in a small bowl until it forms a paste-like substance. Apply this mixture directly onto the stain, wait 30 minutes for it to do its job, then scrub away with an old toothbrush or rag dipped in warm water and mild dish soap.
This works well if the rust is not too deep into the porcelain material but has not yet worked through the surface layers.
Use A Pumice Stone To Rub The Rust Stain
After noticing the stain, it would help if you did this as soon as possible. Rubbing with a pumice stone will help to remove the stain. If you have left it for more than 24 hours, use vinegar to remove the rust from the toilet bowl.
Mix Baking Soda And Water
To remove rust stains from a toilet
- Mix baking soda with water to create a paste.
- Apply the paste to the stain and let it sit for five minutes.
- Scrub the mixture away with a clean rag or scrub brush.
- Once you’ve removed as much of the stain as possible, wipe the toilet with warm water and dry it with a towel.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is another effective product that you can use to remove rust stains on your toilet.
- Pour some hydrogen peroxide into a bowl of warm water.
- Let it sit for about 10 minutes before scrubbing it off with a brush or sponge.
- Rinse with cold water afterward to avoid cracking the porcelain surface.
Calcium, Lime, & Rust Remover (CLR)
Removing rust stains on the toilet using CLR is quite simple and easy. This can be done quickly by following a few simple steps.
- Clean the surface with a sponge or cloth to remove loose dirt or grime.
- Pour CLR into a bowl or cup.
- Apply CLR directly onto the affected area with a brush or sponge, using circular motions until the stain has been removed.
- Rinse with water if needed.
How to Prevent Rust Formation on the Toilet?
One can prevent rust stains from the toilet by following some simple steps:
- Flush the toilet with cold water after each use, as this prevents the formation of rust.
- Avoid flushing large toilet paper rolls and other objects, which can cause clogs and blockages in the toilet system.
- Using a heavy-duty cleaner for thoroughly cleaning the toilet bowl and other bathroom surfaces, such as tubs and sinks.
- Never use steel wool on the toilet bowl. Steel wool will scratch the porcelain surface and make it more prone to rusting.
- Clean the bowl’s rim carefully after every use so that no dirt or bacteria can settle there and cause rust stains in the future.
Bottom Lines
Open the bathroom window and door before you begin cleaning to provide adequate ventilation. To protect yourself from germs and other things that could be harmful to your health, don’t forget to wear rubber gloves. Wear safety glasses if possible.