Removing Hard Water Stains

Are there stubborn spots on your faucet handles or a black rim in your toilet that won’t come off? Maybe you have even scrubbed them with bleach to no avail? Most likely, these are hard water stains. The problem is that the hard water deposits you see are easy to clean. It’s those you don’t see that can be concerning. Now, you may be thinking ‘this sounds like a plumbing problem’. While that may be the case, sometimes it is a situation you can remedy yourself without the unnecessary expense of hiring a plumber. Now, if you have a true plumbing problem, it is best to hire a professional, otherwise, you may have more mess than you can imagine. In that case, there are a number of qualified emergency plumbers in San Antonio, TX.

Best Way To Remove Hard Water Deposits

Although there are a plethora of products you can buy that will remove hard water stains, there is a more natural way to get rid of these unsightly and damaging build-ups. A mixture of vinegar and water is known to do the job just as effectively. Some ways you can use this handy concoction are:

  • Mix equal parts of vinegar and water in a spray bottle. For stubborn stains on tubs, showers, toilets, and sinks, you can add Borax or baking soda for more scrubbing power. 
  • Always use a non-scratch brush and plenty of water to avoid scratching the surface.
  • If you are cleaning a faucet, it may be best to soak a washcloth in the vinegar and water solution. Lay the soaked cloth over the faucet and leave it for 30-60 minutes. Then, scrub with a soft, non-scratch sponge. If the deposits don’t come off, repeat the process. Make sure you dry everything afterward to avoid more stains.
  • Glass shower doors are also known for hard water deposits. You can use lemon juice with a scrub sponge. Leave it to sit for a few hours and apply the vinegar and water spray. Use a squeegee to remove the liquid and then wipe with a clean, dry cloth. 
  • For faucets that appear to be clogged with hard water build-up, remove the aerator from the faucet handle. Submerge the aerator in vinegar overnight and scrub with a toothbrush in the morning. 

Once you have everything nice and clean, you can take some steps to avoid hard water stains. Keep a cloth near each faucet and dry the sink and faucet after each use. You can also use the spray bottle full of the vinegar and water solution every day. Dry after each use and hard water deposits should be easier to clean next time. Remember, if you have more serious plumbing issues, look for emergency plumbers in San Antonio, TX to help you.