No matter how perfect an item is, with increased use and the passage of time, various imperfections will inevitably appear, and bathtubs are no exception. You may notice that their surface gradually gets covered with scratches and stains, especially the orange-red stains commonly found around the drain or faucet — rust. While rust doesn’t pose a direct skin threat like black mold, its accumulation over time can still be troublesome. Therefore, this article, brought to you by Giving Tree Home, will guide you on how to effectively remove rust from your bathtub and make it look as good as new. Let's get started!
Reasons for Frequent Rust in Bathtubs
- Water Quality Issues
In areas with well water or hard water, the water often contains high concentrations of iron ions. When these ions come into contact with the oxygen in the air, an oxidation reaction occurs, resulting in the stubborn orange-red rust that is difficult to remove.
- Corrosion of Metal Parts
Metal parts of the bathtub, such as the drain and faucet, are prone to oxidation after prolonged contact with water. If the anti-rust coating on these parts becomes damaged through use or wear, the oxidation process will intensify, causing rust to spread to the surface of the bathtub.
- Damage to the Bathtub’s Coating
Some bathtubs, such as cast iron or enamel bathtubs, are made from metal. Once the protective coating on the surface is damaged, the underlying metal substrate is exposed to air and moisture, leading to rapid rusting and the eventual formation of rust spots on the bathtub surface.
Preparation Before You Begin
- Assess the Condition of the Bathtub
First, carefully evaluate the overall condition of your bathtub. This step is crucial because selecting the appropriate method and cleaning agents based on the extent and depth of the rust can significantly improve cleaning results and avoid unnecessary trouble.
- Identify the Bathtub Material
Knowing the material of your bathtub is also essential, as different materials have varying tolerances to cleaning agents. Using the wrong cleaning agent could damage your bathtub. If you're unsure of the material, you can contact the seller for information or refer to our recommended article, "How to Tell What Your Bathtub Is Made Of".
- Prepare Necessary Safety Measures
Safety is always the top priority in any cleaning task. Wear gloves and safety goggles, and ensure that the bathroom is well-ventilated. These steps are essential even when using natural cleaning methods.
Natural Methods to Remove Rust from Bathtubs
- Lemon and Salt Combo
For minor rust issues, using a natural method is the best choice, as it’s environmentally friendly and helps avoid damage to the bathtub’s surface. The combination of lemon and salt is highly recommended.
The acidity of lemon can dissolve the rust, while the salt acts as a mild abrasive, similar to using a steel wool pad to clean pots, but gentler.
If you don’t have lemons at home, you can use other acidic fruits or white vinegar as substitutes.
It is recommended to use fine salt, as coarse salt may scratch the surface of acrylic or fiberglass bathtubs. These materials have smooth surfaces, and scratches will be more noticeable.
- Apply Lemon Juice and Wait
Evenly apply lemon juice to the rusted surface and let it sit for 10-15 minutes, allowing the acid to fully penetrate and break down the rust. This step is critical, as the acidic reaction requires time to weaken the bond between the rust and the bathtub surface.
For more stubborn rust, you can repeat the application of lemon juice to ensure full coverage.
- Sprinkle Salt and Gently Scrub
- Method 1: Sprinkle salt directly onto the rust and mix it with the lemon juice to form a paste. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently scrub.
- Method 2: Sprinkle salt onto half a lemon and use the lemon directly to scrub the rusted surface.
When scrubbing, use circular motions (either clockwise or counterclockwise) to ensure the rust is evenly cleaned. For stubborn rust, repeat the steps until completely removed.
- Thoroughly Rinse
Once the rust is completely removed, rinse the bathtub surface thoroughly with clean water. Although it's a natural cleaning method, the leftover lemon juice and salt can still affect the bathtub surface, so this step cannot be skipped.
Removing Stubborn Rust from Bathtubs
Use Chemical Rust Removers
There are several commercial chemical rust removers available, such as Iron Out, Evapo-Rust, and WD-40 Specialist Rust Remover. These products are quick and effective at removing stubborn rust and are ideal for dealing with large areas of rust.
When purchasing, carefully read the product instructions to ensure compatibility with your bathtub material. For example, some heavy-duty rust removers may damage acrylic bathtubs. The product packaging will usually indicate the materials it is suitable for and provide usage precautions. If you're still unsure, you can consult the seller or manufacturer for more specific advice.
Use Pumice Stone to Clean Rust
For ceramic bathtubs, pumice stone is a safe and economical method to remove rust. Pumice stone is a volcanic rock that has a certain abrasiveness but is very gentle on ceramic surfaces. Here are the steps to use pumice stone:
- Soak the pumice stone in water for 10 minutes to soften its surface and reduce friction on the ceramic.
- Gently rub the rust with a dampened pumice stone. Do not apply too much pressure to avoid damaging the bathtub surface.
- Check the rust’s progress as you scrub. For stubborn rust, you can repeat the process, but always keep it gentle.
- After cleaning, rinse the bathtub surface thoroughly with clean water to remove any pumice stone residue.
Preventing Rust from Reappearing in the Bathtub
While removing rust is a temporary solution, preventing it from forming again is key to maintaining a clean bathtub. This can be done by improving water quality and implementing regular maintenance. First, consider installing a water softener or filtration system to reduce the mineral content in the water. This is an effective way to prevent rust formation at the source. Water softeners significantly lower the concentration of minerals, reducing rust and scale buildup, while also extending the lifespan of your bathtub and plumbing. Additionally, they improve the taste and smell of the water, making everyday life more convenient. Although there is an initial cost to install these systems, over time, they can significantly reduce the frequency of cleaning, saving both time and effort, making them economically viable in the long run.
In addition to improving water quality, it’s essential to maintain a regular cleaning routine and ensure proper ventilation. It’s recommended to clean the bathtub's surface weekly to remove any water spots and mineral deposits. A more thorough deep clean should be done monthly, including not only the bathtub itself but also the drain, showerhead, and faucet — areas that are often overlooked. After cleaning, ensure that the bathroom is well-ventilated, either by opening windows or using an exhaust fan. A dry environment can effectively prevent the formation of rust.
Ending
Removing rust from your bathtub is an important part of maintaining its appearance and longevity. Whether you choose natural methods like lemon and salt or opt for more powerful chemical rust removers, the key is to act promptly and carefully to avoid further damage. Regular cleaning, along with preventive measures like soft water systems, can help keep rust from returning and ensure your bathtub stays in pristine condition. With the right tools and techniques, you can restore your bathtub to its original shine, making it a place of relaxation and comfort once again.
