Can Coke Clean Toilets?
Coca-Cola is manufactured as a soft drink, but according to a popular rumor, it can also double as an effective cleaning agent. Specifically, Coke is rumored to remove difficult rings and stains from toilet bowls, even when commercial cleaning products fail. If the rumor is true, it may change the way you approach bathroom cleaning. Does this Spark an idea?
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The Process
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To successfully remove rings and stains from your toilet bowl, just pour an entire 12-ounce can of Coke into the toilet bowl and walk away. Come back one hour later and flush the toilet. The Coke as well as the stains on your toilet bowl will disappear. The process works well, but if stain residue remains, you can remove the excess quickly using a toilet scrubber.
Why It Works
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Coca-Cola contains phosphoric acid, a substance more powerful than the citric acid found in household cleaning products such as vinegar and lemon juice. The acid prevents the Coke from going flat too quickly. Besides appearing in various foods and beverages, phosphoric acid is sometimes used for rust removal. The acetic concentration breaks down difficult stains and deposits on contact, making it possible to simply wipe them away.
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Is it Safe?
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The amount of acid present in its products is insufficient to harm body tissue, according to Coca-Cola. Various acids also appear in fruits, juices, buttermilk, vinegar and other edible products. Phosphorous appears in small amounts in meat, eggs, nuts and other products as well. Nevertheless, the human body expends calcium to counter the amount of phosphorous present, and so excess phosphoric acid may lead to calcium deficiency. As a result, consider limiting your intake of acid-containing soft drinks.
Other Considerations
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While the acid that kills toilet grime may not kill the lining of your stomach in the same manner, moderation is key. Besides possible health effects from excess phosphorous, Coca-Cola contains excess sugar and tap water. However, if you ever need a quick fix for a difficult toilet, Coca-Cola just may save the day for you.
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