How to Remove Toilet Bowl Stains Using a Home Remedy

Avoid dangerous chemicals by using a home remedy to remove toilet stains.

Removing unsightly toilet bowl stains can seem like a daunting task. According to the Center for Science and Environmental Outreach at Michigan Technological University, liquid toilet bowl cleaners contain dangerous chemicals such as hydrochloric, phosphoric or oxalic acid to dissolve minerals and remove stains. These acids irritate mucous membranes and skin, cause respiratory tract inflammation if inhaled and are fatal if swallowed. Oxalic acid causes skin burning, convulsions and even kidney damage. Instead of subjecting yourself to the dangers of chemical toilet bowl cleaners, use a home remedy with ingredients found in most kitchens.

Things You'll Need

• White vinegar
• Baking soda
• Toilet scrubber
• 2 vitamin C tablets

Instructions

1. Pour 1 cup of white vinegar into the toilet bowl water.

2. Add a medium-sized handful of baking soda to the toilet bowl. The mixture of the vinegar and baking soda will cause a bubbling reaction. Let it bubble for about 15 minutes.

3. Scrub the inside of the bowl using a toilet brush or scrubber.

4. Throw two vitamin C tablets into the bowl before bedtime. The vitamin C tablets will dissolve overnight.

5. Scrub the inside of the bowl in the morning with the toilet brush or scrubber.

Tips & Warnings

• For tough stains, combine borax and lemon juice until a thick paste forms. Apply the paste to the stains and let it sit for 20 minutes. Scrub with the toilet scrubber. Wear gloves when handling borax, as it is harmful to mucous membranes and broken skin.

• Rub a wet pumice stone over a stain on porcelain or enamel.

References

• The Center for Science and Environmental Outreach: Greener, Gentler Alternatives to Hazardous Household Products
• Keene State College: Do-It-Yourself Safe Cleaning Solutions