How to Remove Hard Water Stains in Tubs

Remove hard water stains with lemon and vinegar.

Hard water stains are caused by minerals in water, such as manganese, iron, brass and copper. These minerals can create unattractive water stains on bathtubs and other places where there is a constant stream of water. If hard water stains are left untreated for long periods of time, they can be difficult to remove. Regularly cleaning and maintaining a bathtub will reduce hard water stains and improve the tub's appearance. You can remove hard water stains from a tub using lemon, vinegar and baking soda.

Things You'll Need

• 1 cup white vinegar
• 1 tbsp. lemon juice
• Cup
• Terry cloth
• Water
• Clean cloth
• Spoon
• Baking soda
• Bowl
• Rag
• Sponge

Instructions

1. Mix the white vinegar and lemon juice in a cup. Soak a terry cloth in the solution, then rub the cloth over the hard water stains.

2. Rinse the area with water and dry with a clean cloth. If the stain hasn't been removed, use a spoon to mix white vinegar and baking soda in a bowl to form a paste.

3. Apply a thick layer of the paste over the stains with a rag. Keep the paste on the stains for an hour to make sure the paste is being absorbed by the stains.

4. Soak a sponge in water, and wipe the paste off the tub with the sponge. Rinse the remaining paste off with water, then dry the tub with the clean cloth.

Tips & Warnings

• If your tub continues to develop hard water stains, consider purchasing a water softener.

References

• Mrs Clean USA: How To Remove Hard Water Stains
• Natural Handyman: Removing Mineral Deposits From Household Surfaces