If you're wondering what removes hard-water deposits, chances are good that you're preparing to do some serious cleaning in the bathroom and kitchen. Once you've got those stains beaten, you'll want to make sure they don't come back.
Hard-Water Deposit Removers
The best products for removing hard-water deposits are everyday household items, such as vinegar, rubbing alcohol and lemon juice. Obviously, hard-water deposits are easiest to clean if you clean showers, sinks and faucet fixtures on a regular basis, but that isn't always possible. To avoid having to scrub out these unsightly marks in the future, try to wipe down the shower, sink and faucet fixtures after each use. It may seem like a bother now, but in the long run you'll find it will save you time and energy.
The best way to clean hard-water deposits is to use white vinegar. Keep an overhead fan on while using vinegar straight from the bottle, or even a 50/50 solution with warm water, as it is very pungent.
If you're using white vinegar and warm water, saturate a few dish towels or paper towels with a solution of 50% water and 50% white vinegar. Wrap the saturated towels around the faucet for about 15 to 20 minutes, then use a scrub pad to remove the remainder of the hard-water stains and any crust that's built up around the faucet head. If the buildup is difficult to remove, pour straight vinegar into a small cup and then submerge the faucet head in the vinegar for several minutes. Lemon juice can be used in the same manner.
Other Ways to Get Rid of Hard-Water Stains
If you can't stand the smell of vinegar, or if you've got fixtures with finishes that could be damaged by vinegar, there are some alternatives:
When using rubbing alcohol, vinegar or lemon juice on a mirror or shower door, wear goggles and rubber gloves to avoid splashing the product into your eyes and to protect your hands.
Do not pour rubbing alcohol into a spray bottle. While a spray bottle may look like an easy and convenient way to apply rubbing alcohol, you can breathe the mist into your lungs, which can be harmful. Always pour rubbing alcohol onto a cleaning cloth.
Fabric sheets work well as scrubbers. First, try using the fabric sheet dry. If you need more cleaning power, dab a little bit of lemon juice or vinegar on the fabric sheet and try it again. While it does require a little work on your part, a simple dryer sheet often gets the job done.
Be careful with over-the-counter products. Some contain very harsh chemicals that can be dangerous to inhale, while others will create a toxic gas if they're mixed with other cleaners. Read the label thoroughly before use, and only use these products in a well-ventilated area. Place a floor or window fan in the doorway if you need more air circulation.
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Dripped candle wax is a pesky problem. It hardens and sets into carpets, tables, tablecloths and dishes. Colored candle wax stains carpets and tablecloths. Removing candle wax from carpets, tables, tablecloths and dishes is possible with time and effort. Removing candle wax from carpeting (or upholstery) can be accomplished by first making the wax very brittle with cold. |
