Most rust-fighting techniques start with a tank that doesn’t have water. That way, you can pinpoint all of the stains and easily access them. When you’re done either scrubbing or soaking rust, you’ll refill your tank and flush a few times. Leftover rust will loosen and go down the drains.
Scouring powder is an abrasive that breaks up hard particles. Cream of tartar is non-toxic and acidic, breaking down deposits like rust. Hydrogen peroxide breaks up caked on rust. Scrub and rinse the paste immediately since letting peroxide sit on the rust can make it worse.
You can also fill your spray bottle with white vinegar, water, and dish soap. The acid in vinegar will break down rust, and the grease fighting dish soap can scrub away any slimy grime. Stick with white vinegar and avoid other types since they can stain the bowl. Even rice vinegar can result in light yellow marks. You can also add white vinegar directly into the tank water until the fluid sits roughly a 1⁄2 in (1. 3 cm) below the rim. Leave the toilet untouched for 12 to 24 hours, depending on the severity of the rust. Then, flush the toilet at least 3 or 4 times to clear away the vinegar. [3] X Expert Source Cleanzen Cleaning ServicesResidential Cleaning Specialists Expert Interview. 4 February 2022.
Lime juice and grapefruit juice work, too. You can also combine citric acid powder with water to make a paste. Natural acids dissolve rust and salt is mildly abrasive, which helps when you’re scrubbing.
Cola is an eco-friendly cleaning solution, but since it has a low level of phosphoric acid, it takes longer to dissolve stains than other cleaning chemicals. Warm cola dissolves stains more effectively.
Don’t get oxalic acid on your skin, eyes, or clothing. Exposing yourself or others to it can lead to chemical burns. A mask will keep you from breathing it in. Oxalic acid breaks down the iron in rust, softening it and making it easy to rinse off.
Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from splashes and gloves to protect your hands from the harsh chemicals. Use a toothbrush for hard to reach stains. [8] X Research source Many multipurpose cleaners are designed for tough stains on hard surfaces and can loosen up sticky deposits like rust.
For a natural alternative to chemical water softeners, pour 1 cup (236 ml) of lemon juice or vinegar in your toilet tank. Let it sit for at least 3 hours before flushing. Do this daily to keep rust stains from forming. [10] X Research source
Use non-toxic, bleach-free drop-ins. Drop-ins “outgas” when they release stain fighting chemicals, so avoid drop-ins that release anything you shouldn’t be breathing. There are also eco-friendly, chemical-free drop-ins on the market, too.
