Where Does Rust Come From and What Is It?

Steel that is corroding reacts chemically with oxygen, water, and other elements to form rust. This occurs when steel starts to corrode because of wear or damage. Acid electrolytes in water steal the iron atoms from the steel. Rust, an orange substance, is the result.

Why do toilets and sinks have rust stains when they aren't constructed of steel? The iron in the water is what causes the brown stains. The iron may be present in your water simply as a mineral or it may come from corroding old pipes.

Rust is the result of the combination of air, water, and iron, as we already mentioned. Therefore, while the water in your sink or toilet sits, the rust particles sink to the bottom. If this happens long enough, the rust will stain the white porcelain.

Cleaning Toilets, Sinks, and Removing Rust Stains

Many people are tempted to start pouring bleach into the toilet when rust appears. This is a poor choice. Because bleach is so caustic, flushing it away could harm your pipes. Additionally, it can chemically change the rust molecules, escalating the stain.

Avoid using abrasive cleaning items that could harm the surface of your sink or toilet. The easier it is to stain and the more challenging it is to remove those stains, the more porous the surface.

Some of the go-to techniques are:

1. Vinegar and Baking Soda

This has long been a plumber’s favorite. It usually works, is all-natural, and is mild on plumbing systems. Mix 3 tablespoons of baking soda and one tablespoon of water in a small bowl. A paste will form after a small fizzing. With a scrub brush with firm bristles, clean with the paste.

2. Stone of Pumice

That's accurate. Rust can easily be removed using the same scrubber that you use to treat calloused feet. Before use, dampen the pumice to make it somewhat softer so it won't scrape the sink or toilet's surface. This can be used in conjunction with the paste preparation mentioned above or with a straightforward vinegar and water spray mixture.

3. Lemon And Salt

Lemon juice and salt are another all-natural cleaning tool to try in the bathroom. This is an easy-to-use, reliable DIY cleaner. Salt and lemon juice should be combined in a 2:1 ratio. It ought to result in a liquid with grit.

Pour the liquid into the sink, plug it up, and let it soak for 30 minutes. The mixture can also be used to soak in the toilet. Then scrape with your pumice or a scrub brush.

Rust can be cleaned with non-natural cleaning agents like Barkeeper's Friend or Borax. Both chemicals are useful for getting rid of bacteria and stains.

Call Order A Plumber today!