*/

A Chemical-Free Method To Remove Hard Water Stains In The Toilet

by Baiba Grinberga - August 8, 2022

Cleaning a toilet is not the most pleasant chore. However, this fixture is something that you have to clean constantly to maintain its hygiene. 

The problem comes when you find yourself scrubbing over and over, yet some stains remain. It doesn’t mean you’re doing a poor job cleaning, only that you may be dealing with hard water stains.

Don’t worry! There’s a cleaning method sure to eliminate all those stubborn stains—and you won’t need to buy any chemical-based cleaners.

What are hard water stains?

Hard water is rich in minerals like calcium, magnesium, and bicarbonate. Since hard water constantly runs through the toilet bowl, mineral deposits are left behind—that’s where the stains come from.

How to remove hard water stains with vinegar and baking soda

Vinegar and baking soda are potent non-toxic household cleaners that, when you mix them, can lift off stuck-on grime from surfaces. So, if you’re having trouble with hard water stains, this recipe will help immensely!

Step #1. Pour the vinegar

First, grab a cup of white vinegar and pour it into the toilet bowl. Swish the vinegar around the bowl with a toilet brush and let it rest for a minute.

Step #2. Apply the baking soda

Add one cup of baking soda to the bowl and one or two more cups of vinegar. You will see the mix fizzling. Leave the toilet like that for ten minutes.

Step #3. Use a toilet brush

After time’s up, use your toilet brush to swish the solution around the bowl, especially over the stains. Don’t flush the toilet yet!

Step #4. Wait for the solution to work 

Now, it’s time to let the vinegar and baking soda finish their job. Let the solution sit for 30 minutes, and swish it around a couple of times. Then, scrub the remaining stains with the brush. Rinse the toilet to flush, and that’s it!

Extra step: Use a pumice stone to remove stubborn grime

If there’s still mineral buildup in your toilet, don’t stress out! There is something else you can try to remove that stubborn grime.

Get a pumice stone and wet it, then do the same with the toilet bowl (make sure to keep both wet during the process). While you scrub the water spots with the stone, a grey paste will start to form (it’s the pumice stone and water mixing). Rub that paste on the stains and keep scrubbing.

To finish, flush the toilet. Now you can admire your shiny clean toilet bowl! Just keep in mind that using a pumice stone too often could damage the finish on your toilet, so don’t clean with this method every day.

How to prevent hard water stains in your toilet

Cleaning water stains is not something you want to do often. So, better do something to prevent hard water stains! Try cleaning your toilet once a week. It may look like more work, but mineral buildup gets harder with time. So, a regular clean-up will go more smoothly. 

Do you still need some help?

Finding the time to keep a cleaning routine may be complicated. But you don’t have to worry. Personal Maids can help you with that! Let us clean your toilet and the rest of your house while you spend your time doing more important things! Schedule your appointment.