Eliminating Rust Stains From Your Toilets

Rust stains can be caused by a number of things; rusty pipes, damage to your pipes from construction, sediment in your water, a rusty water heater, a break in your water main or a problem with the water source be it municipal or private well. And they are particularly unpleasant in your toilet. 

Where is it coming from?

Rust stains in toilets can occur due to a variety of reasons. Factors such as old plumbing systems and mineral-rich water can all contribute to these stubborn stains. They often appear as reddish-brown marks that can be challenging to remove, even with bleach. Armed with the right techniques and cleaning solutions, you can confidently tackle the stains, and keep it sparkling clean with some preventive measures in place.

What can you do?

First step is turn off the water supply to the toilet using the shut-off valve and flush the toilet to empty the bowl. Then, choose a safe method that combines an acid and a scrubbing agent - paste of lemon juice and baking soda can work wonders in removing rust stains. Let it sit for about 15 minutes, then scrub the stains with a toilet brush or sponge, and flush the toilet to rinse the residue. Alternatively, combine enough vinegar and coarse salt to create a paste to apply directly to the stains. Regular scrubbing to remove any mineral deposits or residue can deter future rust buildup. Long-term steps might include upgrading your water pipes if you have older ones made of cast iron or galvanized steel. A water softener is another preventive measure to consider, since hard water can accelerate the formation of rust stains. Use caution with commercial stain removal products to make sure they are right for your application.

Call in a professional

Need help finding the source of rust in your water? Contact us today: info@pipemasters.ca or (289) 404-9063. Our experienced team will determine the cause and what options you have to address the discolouration. Pipemasters is part of Oakridge Plumbing Ontario Ltd. and serves the East GTA, Durham Region, North to Lindsay & Peterborough, out to Cobourg and all points in between. All Rights Reserved.