How do I remove rust stains from toilets, sinks or tubs?

Unsightly rust stains in the toilets, sinks or tubs can be rather frustrating. Scrubbing off rust stains can also be an exhausting chore. There are ways to combat these and keep your indoor plumbing facilities in tip-top shape.

What causes rust stains to occur?

THard rust stains form due to corrosion in the pipelines and / or presence of iron in the water supply. These result in the appearance of lime scales and / or greenish- and reddish-brown stains on the porcelain surface of the toilet, sink or tub. If there is a prolonged water leak, this hastens the formation of mineral deposits on these surfaces.

Quick tips for removing rust stains

Here are a few simple, easily-accessible products, which remove tough stains efficiently.

Make sure to wear protective gloves and eye-wear, and read all relevant safety instructions carefully while handling cleaning products.

Good ventilation

Keeping the bathrooms and toilets well-ventilated is one of the most beneficial steps. Letting air flow freely reduces humidity in the environment, thereby bringing down the levels of airborne contaminants. You can consider installing an exhaust fan in the bathroom, to facilitate ventilation.

Pest problems

A sudden increase in pest problems around your property could be indicative of a leakage somewhere, as these are drawn towards moisture accumulating near the affected area(s).

Baking soda / Vinegar

If One of the most popular cleaning concoctions, baking soda/vinegar can be combined as a spray solution to apply on the rusted surface. This homemade remedy further removes mould stains. It is a less toxic and cheap option, and equally environmentally-friendly. You can blend these ingredients readily available in the kitchen.

Lemon / Salt

A mixture of salt and lemon juice (bottled juice works too) can be left for a few hours over the stained area, and scrubbed off to get rid of it. The citric acid (from lemon) and acetic acid (from vinegar) are effective in removing untoward smells as well.

Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen Peroxide is another potent stain-remover with anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties, which acts as a disinfectant while attacking the grime.

Coke

A bottle of fizzy Coke can help to reduce the stain build-up. Yes, you read it right – the same cola drink you’d buy at the supermarket…This is due to the presence of acid in the liquid, which breaks down the slime.

Borax

A versatile cleaning option, borax can lift the stains off the surface of the toilets, sinks, taps and showerheads.

Scouring pad

If the stains are not too tough, using a simple scouring pad/sponge can do wonders to remove these quickly.

Chemical cleaners

A wide range of industrial-grade chemical cleaners are available in your local hardware store, which can be a defence against those particularly-stubborn rust stains. Be careful while using these products as they usually contain strong acid components, and ensure the products are compatible for use on porcelain surfaces.

Using bleach – side effects

Using bleach to tackle rust stains in toilet bowls or sinks can be hazardous, as its fumes can pose health risks. It can also damage the porcelain enamelled surface and the plastic plumbing items, by eating into the coating.

Preventing rust stains

Besides regular cleaning using the above-mentioned methods, a few small steps can go a long way in reducing the chances of rust build-up in your plumbing fixtures:

  • Upgrading the pipelines to PVC or copper, from old iron connections
  • Installing a water-softener or iron filter, especially in areas where water quality is hard

Where can I get help in Melbourne to remove rust stains?

If a recurring rust stain in your household or workplace is causing you headaches, and you are not able to locate the cause of this, it’s time to call in a plumbing professional.

The team at Doherty Plumbing Solutions are fully trained and licensed to assist you to tackle these plumbing issues. We will work with you to find the best solutions, and provide reliable advice for long-term prevention of rusting in your plumbing fixtures.

If you are unsure where to get help fast, don’t hesitate to contact Doherty Plumbing Solutions:

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    The serviceman, George, was friendly and did an excellent job of repair on the pipes. I would highly recommend him and the company. Thanks. Mark
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    Mark Hanns
    6/20/2023
    Expected attendance time was managed well with calls and alerts prior to. People were respectful, friendly and professional. Problem was quickly diagnosed, fixed and tested through appliances. Clean-up afterwards was greatly appreciated and a step above other service providers. Used Doherty a number of times, very happy to recommend them.
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    Stuart Boys
    7/20/2023
    This is the second time I have used Doherty Plumbing Solutions. Their service and communication is first class. Tim and Angus were very professional. They were able to find the source of a difficult leak and make the appropriate repairs. I appreciate the quality work that they have done.
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    12/30/2023
    Fantastic service. I called with a question about my hot water service and within 24hrs Brian had been out and fixed the problem. Great service, great turnaround times and fair pricing too.
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    4/09/2024
    Communication pre visit was excellent. Yarra Valley water representative said that the problem was on our property and that you should have fixed it. We’re unsure about that and pleased that it was fixed promptly.
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    Jane Woodman
    1/13/2025
    I am very impressed with the service. My problem was attended to efficiently. The plumber who came, George, was attentive to my needs and polite in his way of relating. He completed the repair work and my leaking problem was solved. I will definitely call Doherty Plumbing again for any plumbing problems.
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    5/20/2023
    Doherty's installed a tap in our warehouse. It was a particularly fiddly job and they delivered on time at a competitive price. Their staff were polite, professional and helpful.
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    8/30/2023
    I called Doherty with a problem that was causing me all sorts of issues. They sorted it out quickly and efficiently and got the job done without any fuss, on time, with courtesy and professionalism and at a reasonable price. I will use Doherty again!
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    Christine Salau
    9/06/2023
    The team from Doherty Plumbing responded promptly to my emergency call to unblock the sewer drain in our backyard. Tim and Angus were professional, courteous and thorough in their work. I highly recommend this business to take care of your plumbing issues.
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    12/30/2023
    The 3rd time I have used the Doherty team for Plumbing issues and I highly recommend them! Responsive, professional, polite and reasonably priced, all make for a great experience.
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    2/29/2024
    For reliable plumbing services, call 03 9877 5775 or 0417 577 432