Rust stains around the drains? Make these annoying marks disappear by using simple remedies
Stepping into the bathtub or shower and encountering dirt near the drain with visible orange (rust) circles isn't conducive to a feeling of cleanliness and good hygiene. These marks are usually a result of rust forming, and while it's not unusual or repulsive when we realize this, it's true that most people prefer the bathroom fixtures to be gleaming and immaculate at all times.
However, rust stains don't usually go away with regular cleaning and require specific products or home remedies to make them vanish completely. Below, we offer some rust-cleaning advice:
Use ingredients from the kitchen to remove rust stains in the bathroom
In the kitchen, we can find common ingredients that, due to their formulation, can dissolve rust. Perhaps you've already guessed what they are:
- Lemon juice and table salt: A winning combination that also leaves a pleasant scent. Using these products is easy: simply mix them in a bowl (preferably glass) to create a fairly thick paste - start with two tablespoons of salt and add a little lemon juice to avoid making it too liquid. Apply the paste to the rust stains, using a sponge or even an old toothbrush. Let the paste sit for a maximum of 20 minutes, then use a slightly abrasive sponge to scrub and remove the rust marks.
- Baking soda and white vinegar: Another foolproof combination for countless household cleaning chores, to be used similarly to the method just described. Create a cream with 3 tablespoons of baking soda and one of vinegar, following the steps above but allowing it to sit for an hour before removing everything.
Always remember to rinse thoroughly once the cleaning is complete. If the stains persist, don't be discouraged: perhaps repeating the process again is all that's needed!
Alternative remedies to remove rust from the bathtub
If the rust stains aren't very stubborn, it might be sufficient to erase them with a magic eraser (which is only slightly abrasive and won't damage the surfaces). Remember to wet and wring the eraser out properly before rubbing it on the rusted area.
For slightly more stubborn rust stains, try using a damp pumice stone on them. You may need to apply a bit of pressure, but it will eventually scrape away the rust. Be mindful not to use this remedy too frequently, as it can damage the finish of the surfaces/fixtures over time.
Of course, liquid or spray rust removers are a solution to try when milder remedies prove ineffective. One of the DIY products that comes in handy as a substitute for a specific rust remover is WD-40 (a lubricating oil that works well in such cases). Spray WD-40 on the rust, let it sit for 10 minutes, then remove everything with an old cloth and rinse thoroughly. Remember, it's always best to handle these substances with gloves on.
Are you ready to make rust stains in your home disappear?