How Do I Remove Hard Water Stains?

A shower head with limescale buildup on a bathroom countertop.

Say Goodbye to Hard Water Stains

Homes across the nation struggle with hard water and its effects. This mineral-filled water can be harsh on your plumbing system and is known to leave behind unsightly residue and build-up on your faucets, tub, and showerhead.

Put a stop to stains and gunk with these cleaning tips from your friends at Mr. Rooter Plumbing!

The Bathtub

Let's start with the bathtub. Start by filling it with hot water and allowing it to sit for a few minutes — this will help to loosen the stains. Drain the water and use a soft cloth or sponge to scrub the tub with a gentle cleanser. Be sure to rinse thoroughly afterward. If your stains are a bit more stubborn, repeat the process using a tougher sponge and white vinegar.

The Showerhead

Showerheads tend to accumulate green, white, and pink build-up as they are exposed to hard water. To clean this gunk away, remove the showerhead and soak it in a bowl of equal parts vinegar and water for about 30 minutes. After soaking, use an old toothbrush to scrub away any remaining residue. Rinse the showerhead thoroughly before reattaching it to the hose.

You may have to repeat this process every so often as the build-up comes back.

Faucets

Faucets tend to develop the same buildup as showerheads, so the cleaning process is fairly similar! Take a Ziploc bag filled with equal parts white vinegar and water and place it around the end of the faucet, securing it with rubber bands. Allow it to sit for 20-30 minutes before removing and scrubbing with a toothbrush. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft cloth.

Hard Water Fixes

Hard water stains can be a pain! If you're ready to make a change to your water, give the Mr. Rooter Plumbing team a call today. We can help you find a hard water solution that works best for you!