Hard Water Stains

Rust stains are caused by the presence of dissolved iron in water. The iron oxidizes and collects on the surface of bathtubs and sinks. This appears over time as an orange-red stain. 

No matter how hard you scrub, if you are using a cleanser that contains bleach, your problem will only get worse. 

The bleach chemically reacts with the iron in the water which actually creates more rust in your sink or bathtub. Well water as well as municipal water can have a high iron content that causes rust stains to form on bathtubs and sinks.

In order to prevent these stains from happening in the first place, make sure to rinse the sink and the bathtub/shower after each use. After rinsing, wipe the tub, sink and shower down with a towel. This will help to remove any iron residue.

If stains have already set in, depending on the material of your bathroom fixtures, you may be able to use a pumice stone to gently rub away the stains. Wet the pumice stone and rub it on the tub or sink stain. Some of the pumice will dissolve in the water to form a paste as you rub it. Scrub the rust stains with the paste to remove them.

If a pumice stone does not work, try spraying a mixture of one part white vinegar or lemon juice and one part water (mixed in a spray bottle) onto the stain. Scrub the stain with a hard-bristled brush and then rinse the area.

If you are tired of scrubbing those stains once and for all...know this! It's NOT your cleaning skills that's the issue, it's your WATER! Stains and mineral deposits can form from untreated water. We can help. Call us! 302-732-9002