Coca-Cola is said to be effective for removing rust stains on bathtubs. Soak a rag with this soft drink and let it sit on the stain for eight to ten hours. Wipe the stain and clean with water.
While rust stains are common on old bathtubs, newer ones may also develop such marks. Usually, such stains develop due to leaking rusty bathroom fixtures, or due to hard water that is rich in iron and calcium. Accumulation of water around the drain may lead to rust stains on that part. Leaving metal cans on the wet surface for a long period may also result in stains.
Commercial cleaners are very effective for removing rust stains from bathtubs. If you want to avoid the use of products with harmful chemicals, try some home remedies. Most of them are easily available, and work well in removing the stains. Choose a stain remover that does not spoil the bathtub. While abrasives are not good for acrylic bathtubs, never use cleaners with bleach or the enamel ones.
How to Remove Rust from a Bathtub
Removing bathtub rust stains is not that difficult, as there are a number of commercial cleaners that are easily available in the stores. Try to find the one that is best-suited for your bathtub. This is because, these cleaners contain certain chemicals that may damage the bathtub. If you have a fiberglass bathtub, choose a cleaner that can be used on that material. When it comes to commercial products that are used for removing rust from bathtubs, brands like The Works, Bar Keeper's Friend, ZUD, Wink, Whisk, CLR etc., are said to be effective. Naval Jelly is another product that can be used on porcelain bathtubs. If you want to go green, try to remove the stains naturally. There are various substances that can be used for this purpose. They include lemon juice, cream of tartar, salt, vinegar, baking soda, etc. Here is a list of some easily available household materials that can be used for removing rust stains from a bathtub.
Pumice Stone
This is one of the best remedies to get rid of rust stains from a porcelain bathtub. All you need to do is to wet a pumice stone and use it to scrub the stain gently. Pour some water in between. The stain will disappear within some time. This method is effective for removing stubborn rust stains from porcelain bathtubs. Never use a pumice stone to scrub stains on enamel or fiberglass bathtubs. You can replace the pumice stone with a piece of steel wool.
Baking Soda
We all know that baking soda is a versatile product with a wide range of uses. For removing rust stains, you have to make a thick paste of baking soda and water. Apply the paste on the stains and scrub gently. This remedy works for porcelain, enamel as well as fiberglass bathtubs. For fiberglass and porcelain bathtubs, use baking soda mixed with lemon juice.
Lemon Juice
Apply fresh lemon juice on the stains and scrub with a small amount of table salt. If the stain persists, repeat the process. Another method is to apply lemon juice and sprinkle salt on the stains. After 30 to 60 minutes, use a sponge to scrub the stains gently. This remedy works best for porcelain bathtubs. You may also try it on acrylic bathtubs. In that case, never use pressure while scrubbing.
Borax
Mix a tablespoon of borax with enough warm water to make a paste. Apply the paste on the stains and let it sit for 30 minutes. Rinse with a mild soap solution and water. You need not scrub the borax paste, which is said to be useful for removing stubborn rust stains from fiberglass and porcelain bathtubs. You may replace warm water with lemon juice.
White Vinegar
Prepare a solution of white vinegar by mixing it with water in equal amounts. Once done, pour this solution over the stains. Make sure that the stains are completely covered with the solution. Alternatively, dip a cloth in the solution and place it over the stains. Scrub lightly and clean after one to two hours. Tough stains may require re-application for complete removal. You may use undiluted white vinegar for removing stubborn rust stains on porcelain bathtubs.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Mix one part of 3% hydrogen peroxide with two parts of baking soda. You may also add a small amount of mild scouring powder. Baking soda can be replaced with cream of tartar. Clean the rust stains with a mild soap solution and apply this paste. After an hour or two, use a sponge to scrub the stains. Clean the spots with water. If you intend to use this remedy for removing rust from a fiberglass bathtub, avoid the scouring powder.
Rubbing Alcohol
Mix one part rubbing alcohol with three parts water. Spray the solution over the stains. Use a rag or paper towel to blot the solution. Repeat the process till the stains are removed completely.
These are some of those pantry items that can be used to get rid of rust stains from your bathtub. Go in for a patch test, before trying any of these remedies. Avoid using those substances that can spoil the finish of the bathtub. It is always better to avoid rust stains with some preventive measures. Install a water softener, and remove metallic items that can cause rust stains on the surfaces of the bathtub, if they are left there for a long time. Ensure that the tub does not contain any standing water. Drain properly and wipe with a soft cloth, every time you use the tub.
