Some rust stains are too deep for an all-purpose cleaner to remove. This is when you have to call in the big guns. Check out our guide for simple ways to get rust stains out of sinks, toilets, and fixtures.
What Causes Rust Stains to Form?
Rust stains are most common in homes with a hard water supply. They form for a few different reasons:
- Water rich in iron particulates
- Water containing iron bacteria and minerals
- Iron plumbing pipes
- Rusty water heater
- Toilet tank with untreated metal parts
How to Get Rust Stains Out Of Sinks and Fixtures
Want to know how you can get pesky rust stains out of your sink or toilet? You’ve come to the right place. Try one or all five of the tricks below.
1. Apply Citric Acid
The acidic juice from lemons, limes, and grapefruits cut through the rust stains. Slice your fruit of choice in half, and cover both pieces in salt or baking soda. These items help break up the rust particles. Citric acid powder is an effective alternative. Mix the powder with some water to create a pasty substance. Rub the mixture into the stain with a bristle brush.
2. Pour Distilled White Vinegar
Another way to get rust stains out of a sink is with white cleaning vinegar. When applying this acidic liquid to sinks and fixtures, spray it onto the affected area. Rub it in with a brush until the rust disappears. When applying it to toilets, fill the empty bowl with the liquid for 2+ hours. Scrub it into the toilet and rinse with water.
3. Use Cream of Tartar
Apply the powder to the affected area, and rub it in with a damp brush.
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4. Add Gentle Abrasives
Apply a gentle abrasive such as baking soda or table salt to get rust stains out of your sink or toilet. If used correctly, table salt and baking soda will not damage porcelain, fiberglass, or enamel. Apply the abrasive to a damp area and rub it in.
5. Try Commercial Rust Removers
Some rust stains warrant the help of a commercial rust remover. Be careful to choose one that won’t be too harsh.
How to Prevent Rust From Forming on Sinks, Toilets, and Fixtures
While there is nothing wrong with removing rust stains, preventing them from popping up in the first place is a more effective solution. Here are a few ways you can prevent rust from forming on sinks, toilets, and plumbing fixtures.
- Invest in a water softener to remove harsh minerals from your water supply.
- Clean your sinks, toilets, and fixtures regularly so rust doesn’t have a chance to set in.
- Keep your sinks, toilets, and fixtures free from aluminum and metal objects (Shaving cream cans,, Razors, Pots , and Pans)
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4 Signs You Need to Buy a New Bathroom Sink
Here’s how to know when your bathroom sink is too far gone for repairs.
- Physical Damage: Large cracks in your sink leave room for damaging water leaks.
- Rusty Tap: It is hard to get excess rust stains off of your bathroom sink tap
- Low Water Volume: Decreased water volume from your sink likely means the faucet needs replacing.
- Sink Continuously Backs Up: A sink that constantly backs up should be replaced with one that drains properly.
Exceptional Plumbing Repair Services
Are you tired of those annoying rust rings forming on your sinks, toilets, and fixtures? Contact our team of plumbers in Arlington, VA and other areas to receive assistance. Our technicians offer exceptional sink replacement and installation services for homes in your local area. In addition, we offer other types of plumbing services such as sump pump installation, drain cleaning, and water heater replacement. To receive support with a plumbing issue, give our technicians a call by phone at (703) 543-9649 to book an appointment.