How do I conquer extremely hard water stains?

Terri
by Terri

We have recently purchased a new handicapped toilet.

MOST manufacturers recommend not using any chemicals to clean.

MOST warranies will be void if chemical or abrasives are used.

We have attempted vinegar and baking soda to no avail.

How do I conquer extreme hard water rust? In the bowl and the tank?

Thank you in advance!

  7 answers
  • Michelle Leslie Michelle Leslie on Jan 07, 2019

    Hi Terri, I found this article online that might help. They give a whole bunch of tips and explain things really nicely. - https://www.familyhandyman.com/cleaning/how-to-remove-water-stains/view-all/ Good luck, I hope you come right

  • Johnavallance82 Johnavallance82 on Jan 07, 2019

    Hi Terri, Have you thought to ask the manufacturers what they recommend you use................

    • Terri Terri on Jan 11, 2019

      Hi John,

      Yes I have tt them. A soft rag swished around daily with vinegar.?

      I tried vinegar to no avail. But I do thank you for your time and question.

  • Cheryl Cheryl on Jan 07, 2019

    Hi- I have hard water too. It's a pain in the ###. Adding water softener may help. You can put a small timed dispenser in the tank to reduce adhesion of calcium, iron etc. Sprinkle some in the toilet and let it sit before scrubbing. Steaming also helps release stains and build-ups without abrasion. I use a power steamer, and it makes the whole job easier. Maybe a friend could loan you one to try and see if it's for you.

    • Terri Terri on Jan 11, 2019

      Thanks Yor.....

      That is an interesting solution.

      I will give that a try. Right now I'm ready to try anything!

  • Vimarhonor Vimarhonor on Jan 07, 2019

    Hello, I have very hard water and after a new addition and remodel 2015 new toilets.

    I still use the pumice stick with the recommended way, I see no damage from abrasion and have a clean toilet.


    Tang - koolaid internet recommendations as well as commercial toilet bowl cleaner did not work for my toilet hard water stains/ ring.


    My solution was the pumice stick. This is excellent way to remove stains and rings in the toilet. When commercial toilet cleaners fail -this is my go to. Great for thick crusted calcium mineral build up that the toilet waterbowl collects.


    They are found at my local Walmart for less than two dollars -good for multiple uses. Be sure to follow the use instructions, soaking the pumice stone in water for a few minutes. While the stone is soaking, grab your toilet brush and splash water up around the ring. Note: It’s very important to keep both the stone and the surface wet while cleaning to avoid scratching your porcelain.


    Additional cleaning suggestions and information can be found here.

    I hope this helps.


    https://bradburybrothers.com/blog/plumbing/plumbing-emergencies/top-5-tips-help-hard-water-toilet-tank/

    • See 1 previous
    • Vimarhonor Vimarhonor on Jan 11, 2019

      I was stressed and worried with new toilets too, nit wishing tio scratch or permanently damage. With but keeping the stick moist it is effective and soft working more like an eraser that crumbles vs a harsh chipping.

  • Pamela perry Pamela perry on Jan 08, 2019

    I use a pumice stick to get hard water rings out of my toilet. Doesn't scratch regular toilet material, does require a little elbow grease.

  • Terri Terri on Jan 11, 2019

    Thank you Pam,

    Elbow grease is just what I need, sadly mines running on empty!!

  • Johnavallance82 Johnavallance82 on Jan 11, 2019

    Hello again,

    I have not resorted to trying Magnetic Limescale cleaner that you put in cistern. (Is magnets can work in a kettle I have high hopes)........Goodluck!