Easily get Rust Stains out of your Toilet

Rust stains in the toilet bowl aren't uncommon but they are strange. Afterall, most toilets aren't made of metal, so where does it come from and what is the best way to remove rust?

Water high in iron is the cause of these rusty stains. Furthermore, water high in other mineral content can lead to other yucky stains. You'd think that bleach would do the trick but that can actually make matters worse. Bleach is not designed to dissolve rust or mineral deposits, so it may not remove these stains effectively. It should also never be mixed with acidic cleaners.

In many cases, these stains are linked to hard water. When water contains iron and other dissolved minerals, those minerals can settle on porcelain surfaces over time and create rust-colored or brownish rings. That is why toilet rust stains often come back unless the buildup is cleaned regularly.

CLR^® Calcium, Lime & Rust Remover is formulated to do the dirty work other household cleaners can't. And though it's more powerful on toilet bowl stains including rust, it's easy on the environment.

HOW TO REMOVE RUST FROM A TOILET BOWL USING CLR® CALCIUM, LIME, & RUST REMOVER

1. Put on rubber cleaning gloves
2. Turn off the water supply to the toilet
3. Flush the water from bowl
4. Pour 1 cup of CLR into bowl
5. Wait 2 minutes
6. Scrub the bowl with a toilet brush to loosen the soil
7. Turn the water supply back on and flush

Always read label instructions before use.

If rust stains keep returning, or you also have rust stains in the bathtub, the cause is often in the water itself. In some cases, a water softener or a check of older plumbing may help reduce the problem.

Watch our video on how to clean toilet bowl stains.

KEEP THE BATHROOM CLEANING GOING WITH CLR

While a clean toilet spruces up your bathroom experience, there's a lot more to do. Try CLR's bathroom cleaner, an easy to use, foaming spray that cuts through soap scum and grime from your counters, tub, tiles, shower and more.

FAQs

Can rust stains be removed from porcelain?

Yes, rust stains can usually be removed from porcelain with the right cleaner and method. The key is to use a product designed for rust and mineral buildup and avoid anything too abrasive that could scratch the surface.

What causes rust stains in a toilet?

Rust stains in a toilet are usually caused by iron in the water. In homes with hard water, mineral buildup can also add to the staining and leave behind orange, brown, or reddish marks in the bowl.

Will cleaning rust stains damage porcelain?

Cleaning rust stains should not damage porcelain if you use the right product and follow the directions. Harsh scrubbing tools or abrasive materials can scratch the surface, so it is better to use a toilet brush or another non-scratching tool.

Can hard water cause rust-colored stains in a toilet?

Yes, hard water can lead to rust-colored stains, especially when it contains iron and other minerals. Over time, those minerals can build up on the porcelain and become harder to remove with regular cleaning.

Is bleach a good way to remove rust stains from a toilet?

No, bleach is not usually the best choice for rust stains. It does not dissolve rust or mineral buildup well, and in some cases it can make the stain harder to remove. It also should never be mixed with acidic cleaners.

Why do rust stains keep coming back in my toilet?

If rust stains keep returning, it's likely the water causing the issue. High iron content, hard water, or older pipes can lead to repeated staining, even after the bowl has been cleaned.

Can I prevent rust stains in my toilet?

You may be able to reduce rust stains by cleaning the bowl regularly and addressing the source of the problem if it is related to hard water or iron in the water supply. In some homes, checking the plumbing or using water treatment can help.