Hard water stains are common on bathroom taps and faucets. If you do not clean your faucets regularly, it will be very difficult to remove the stains. In this article, we have discussed how to remove hard water stains from faucets and taps.
Causes Of Hard Water Stains
The primary cause of hard water staining is borewell water for both residential and commercial water. The borewell water contains slightly more magnesium and calcium. The minerals in the water, in particular, generate tenacious limescale deposits on showerheads, taps, tiles, and mirrors.
Since hard water contains a large number of mineral deposits, when the water evaporates, the deposits remain, resulting in ugly patches. The limescale stains not only make the taps and showers look unpleasant but they also interfere with their proper operation.
It may also give you the feeling that your hands are not as clean as you want after washing them. The stain marks on the taps and faucets are difficult to remove with regular soap or cleanser. It’s a good idea to regularly clean hard water stains on faucets and fixtures to keep them looking attractive and working properly.
How To Remove Hard Water Stains From Faucets & Taps
Here are some best home remedies you can use to remove these hard water stains:
1. By Using Vinegar
The acidic properties of vinegar help remove mineral deposits without causing any damage to the fittings. In a mixing bowl, mix an equal amount of water and vinegar. Fill an empty spray bottle with this solution and spray it on your bathroom faucets and taps.
If you are using a spray bottle that previously contained chemicals or other components, make sure to clean it before adding the vinegar and water mixture.
Spray the affected area thoroughly so that no stains are missed. Allow the solution on the applied area for at least 60 minutes. If the stains are very stubborn, soak a clean towel in vinegar and drape it over the faucet, ensuring direct contact with all hard water stains.
Let the towel sit for at least 30 minutes. Usually, an hour is preferable. Make sure to use ordinary white vinegar. Apple cider vinegar and other vinegar will not work here.
If that doesn’t work, try cleaning baking soda, which is more acidic and stronger against hard water stains. Sprinkle some baking soda on your white vinegar mixture for exceptionally stubborn hard water stains.
Add 2 drops of dishwashing liquid to a bowl of warm water. Soak a sponge in this cleaning solution and use it to scrub your bathroom taps. Use a toothbrush to clean hard-to-reach spots. Use warm water to rinse the soap away. Using a clean cloth, wipe the taps dry.
2. By Using Salt
Salt helps in the breakdown of hard water stains, and it also helps in the removal of germs from surfaces. Sprinkle salt liberally on the stained areas and leave it to sit for 3-4 hours.
Scrub the stains away thoroughly with a sponge or a scrub pad. It’s time to wash the spots with warm water. Warm water helps in the removal of stains.
3. By Using Baking Soda
Baking soda is a readily available kitchen product, and it may work wonders in removing limescale buildup from taps and faucets. It is a mild alkali that easily dissolves stains and dirt.
Make a paste with 3-4 tbsp baking soda and 1 cup of water. Apply it to the stained parts and allow it to sit for at least 4-5 hours.
Scrub the spots away thoroughly using a scrubber. To loosen the paste, spray it with some water. Now, wash the affected area with warm water.
4. By Using Cream Of Tartar
Cream of tartar, a common baking ingredient, is a mild acid that can be used as an alternative to baking soda. It is non-abrasive and can be used to remove stains from various surfaces.
Apply cream of tartar and water paste to the discolored area. Allow for up to 30 minutes before scrubbing with a damp towel to reveal shining taps.
5. By Using Lemon
You can also switch to lemon juice instead of vinegar. The acidity of the lemon juice will remove limescale deposits from your taps, making them sparkle. Simply rub half a lemon over the affected area.
Allow the lemon to sit on top of the limescale buildup for a few hours. The acid present in the lemon will dissolve the limescale. After loosening the deposit, it can be scraped away with an old toothbrush.
6. By Using Lemon, Baking Soda & Vinegar
You can try this method if the above-listed methods don’t work properly. Squeeze half of the lemon into a bowl. Add 1 teaspoonful of baking soda to the lemon juice. Mix it very well.
Apply this solution to the faucets using a scrubber. Leave it for 15-20 minutes. Clean it with white vinegar. Finally, rinse it with normal water. You will see a significant change.
6. By Using Shower Cleaner
Purchasing a high-quality hard water stain remover is the most simple and effective solution to deal with hard water stains on bathroom taps and faucets.
Do online research and seek recommendations for top-rated tap cleaners to buy. Also, read online consumer reviews and ratings to make a wise decision.
A dependable shower cleaner will remove stubborn water stains from taps and faucets while remaining safe and simple to use. After application, it must not leave dangerous fumes & residues.
Final Words
Keep in mind not to let any excess water accumulate. The quicker you clean up any drips or pools of water, the less likely you are to have stains.
Always keep a bottle of white vinegar on hand. This DIY home cleaning solution works on all types of hard water stains when mixed with water.