Find the Right How-To Guide for Your Project

Explore our library of expert-backed DIY guides. Whether you’re fixing a faucet, repairing drywall, or tackling a new home project, get step-by-step instructions tailored to your needs.

Browse categories or search for a project to get started

Remove Stubborn Toilet Bowl Stains: Hard Water, Rust & More

Overview

Edit Variables

Tools & Materials

Related Guides

This project details how to remove stubborn stains from a toilet bowl. The first step is to prepare the toilet by turning off the water, flushing, and emptying excess water. A toilet water solidifier can be used to prevent spills. Next, apply toilet cleaner to the stained areas, ensuring full coverage and letting it sit for the recommended dwell time. Pumice stones can be used to scrub tough stains. Finally, scrub the bowl with a toilet brush, rinse by flushing multiple times, and check for remaining stains, repeating steps if needed.

What You'll Need

HDX Pumice Stone for Swimming Pools, Spas and other Surfaces 62665
For removing hard water, rust, mineral and mildew stains from ceramic tile, grout and concrete surfaces. The 100% natural pumice material effectively dissolves stubborn stains and won't harm your pool

ECOLAB 32 oz. Acidic Toilet Bowl Cleaner and Limescale Remover for Bathroom Toilets and Urinals 7700448
Acidic Toilet Bowl Cleaner is now a 3X thicker high-performance clinging acidic professional-grade toilet bowl cleaner formulated for performance in demanding, high traffic restrooms. This 32 oz. bottle

Bath Bliss Toilet Brush and Holder with Rim Scrubber 10118
The Bath Bliss Toilet Brush with Rim Scrubber is the perfect bathroom accessory to keep your toilet clean. The 360 degree brush shape and rim scrubber helps to clean hard to reach places. The open design

Featured Steps

Step 1

Step 2

Step 3

Step 1

Prepare the Toilet for Cleaning

5.0000

Before you start scrubbing, shut off the toilet's water supply.

Then, flush the toilet once to empty the bowl.

This prevents spills and makes cleaning easier.

Consider using a toilet water solidifier to minimize splashes.

Step 2

Apply Toilet Cleaner for Stain Removal

15.0000

Liberally apply your chosen toilet cleaner to all stained areas, ensuring complete coverage of hard water deposits and other stains.

Allow the cleaner to dwell for the manufacturer's recommended time.

For tough stains, consider using a product specifically designed for mineral deposit removal.

Step 3

Scrub, Rinse, and Verify Cleanliness

5.0000

Use a toilet brush to thoroughly scrub the bowl, focusing on the treated areas.

Rinse by flushing the toilet multiple times to remove the cleaner and loosened debris.

Check for remaining stains and repeat steps if necessary.

Videos

Before you start scrubbing, shut off the toilet's water supply. Then, flush the toilet once to empt...