How to Remove Mineral Deposits From Toilet Tanks

Get mineral deposits out of toilet tanks with vinegar.

Mineral deposits build up regularly in toilet tanks when you have a hard water supply -- the mineral content in the water settles as discolored film that is difficult to remove. You want to use something that is chemical-free to keep your home and environment safe, but you also want something that quickly dissolves this buildup and prevents it from accumulating in the future. This can be achieved with an inexpensive cleaning routine.

Things You'll Need

• White vinegar
• Nylon scrubbing pad
• Rubber gloves, optional

Instructions

1. Flush the toilet to drain the water and quickly pour 1 cup white vinegar into the toilet tank.

2. Scrub the toilet tank with a nylon scrubbing pad as the tank refills with water, wearing a pair of gloves if you like. Continue until all residue is removed. For tougher buildup, pour 2 cups white vinegar into the tank of water and let it sit for about 30 minutes, then scrub to remove the loosened buildup.

3. Pour 1 cup of the white vinegar into the tank about once per week to prevent the buildup from accumulating in the future. This should minimize buildup and in many cases eliminate the buildup altogether, but if any mineral deposits do accumulate simply scrub with the nylon scrubbing pad after adding the cup of vinegar.

References

• Ask the Builder: Toilet Troubles