It doesn’t matter if you’re at home or at the office, hard water stains are an eyesore. But there are some ways that you, or your professional cleaner, can get rid of these stains at your facility.  Hard water contains a higher amount of minerals like magnesium and calcium. These minerals are left behind as the water evaporates, leaving an unsightly mark.

#1 Vinegar

Vinegar is a non-toxic acid that can break through odors, tough grease, soap scum, and hard water stains. Quick science lesson, acids dissolve alkaline deposits (also called minerals), which is why white vinegar can help with surfaces that aren’t harmed by acetic acid. If the stains are on the surface, keep the surface wet with vinegar for 30 minutes and then scrub away using an abrasive scrubbing pad. For faucet stains, fill a sandwich bag halfway with white vinegar and bring it up to the faucet/shower head so the head is immersed. Then secure the bag by wrapping a thick rubber band around the top of the sandwich bag and the faucet/shower pipe. Gently turn on the water and fill it with water until it’s full. Allow it to sit for a few hours before you remove the bag. Wipe down the faucet with a clean, damp sponge and allow it to dry.

#2 Bar Keepers Friend

You might have some Bar Keepers Friend in your cleaning bucket because it’s a common cleaning product. It’s a fine powder that’s an oxalic acid cleaner. It’s used for tough cleaning jobs such as removing grease and breaking up limescale. It’s also helpful in removing hard water stains. Sprinkle some powder over the affected area to activate and allow it to foam. Then scrub in a circular motion to buff out the stains. Rinse away and prepare yourself for a stain-free faucet. As always, it’s a good idea to test the area in advance and you might want to wear gloves if you have sensitive skin.

#3 Baking Soda

You likely have some baking soda in your pantry, so give this method a try. Baking soda is a natural stain remover–especially when mixed with vinegar. You can mix these vinegar and baking soda together to create a powerful chemical reaction that releases carbon dioxide. This helps to force minerals away from surfaces and leave behind a clean finish. For your stains, create a thick paste by mixing the baking soda and vinegar. Apply it to the hard water stain and let it sit for 30 minutes. Rinse away the paste with hot water and wipe it down with a cloth.

#4 Toilet Bowl Cleaner

Although toilet bowl cleaner is typically used for toilets, it’s a common household hydrochloric acid cleaner. If you’ve tried the other options and still have hard water stains, then give this method a whirl. First, make sure the surface is clean from other chemicals or cleaners to prevent reactions. Test a small area first in case you have a sensitive surface. If all looks ok, then place some cleaner on the stain and scrub in a circular motion. Wipe the cleaner away with a clean, damp sponge.

Hopefully one of these methods can remove your hard water stains. Want to call an expert or hire some professional cleaning help? We’re available and ready! Reach out to us today for all of your cleaning needs.