How to Remove Rust Stains from the Bathtub

If your bathtub is exposed to rust from a damaged metal part, it will be important to learn how to remove rust stains from it successfully. Unfortunately, this will take some time and effort because rust stains are notoriously difficult to remove. Even though they will not respond well to most cleaning methods that you might try, it is still possible to get rid of rust stains. With the correct strategies, it is well within the capabilities of any person to remove rust stains from a bathtub. What follows should give you everything you need to know in order to accomplish this task successfully.

Step 1 - Choose Materials

Before you begin, you will have to select a toilet bowl cleaner. If you already have one in your home, check to see that it includes hydrochloric acid on its list of ingredients. If it does not, you will need to go purchase a new one, making sure that it contains hydrochloric acid. It is worth noting that hydrochloric acid is often referred to as "HCL" or "muriatic acid," so be on the lookout for these ingredients as well.

Step 2 - Prepare the Stain

Next, you will need to make sure the area containing the rust stain is dry. If it is not, the cleaner will be diluted and not work as effectively, possibly requiring you to repeat the process several times. In the interest of saving yourself work in the long run, go over the area you will be cleaning with a towel and check to make sure that it is completely dry before continuing.

Step 3 - Wear Protective Clothing

Because toilet cleaner is dangerous, you should wear rubber gloves and eye protection while using it. Additionally, you should open all doors and windows to avoid the harmful fumes it will give off during use.

Step 4 - Remove the Stain

Now that your work area is prepared, you can begin. Pour your toilet cleaner of choice onto the area that is stained with rust. You should see some results immediately, but chances are simply applying toilet cleaner will not be enough to remove a rust stain. In order to remove the stain completely, you will have to do some scrubbing. Use a toilet brush or a nylon scouring pad to scrub the stain away. The results of this should be visible, and you should see the rust stain dissolve.

Step 5 - Rinse the Area

It is important that you rinse away every last bit of toilet cleaner, as toilet cleaner is dangerous and you do not want the next person to use the bathtub to come into contact with any that is left behind. Pour plenty of water on the leftover toilet cleaner and rinse it down the drain. This will also rinse away any rust that has detached from your bathtub.

If there is more rust left behind that the toilet cleaner and scrubbing have not removed, you will have to repeat the process.