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Learn how to remove stubborn hard water stains from all kinds of household surfaces.
If you have hard water in your home, you’re likely familiar with hard water stains. These white, dusty deposits can be found on shower doors, drinking glasses, granite countertops, dishwashers and virtually any bathroom fixture. Not only are these stains unsightly, but if left untreated, they can also etch into surfaces. That’s why it’s important to tackle them quickly.
The challenge? Hard water stains don’t just wipe away with a quick swipe of a paper towel or damp rag. They are actually hardened mineral deposits that require a little more effort and elbow grease to remove properly. Below, you’ll find tips for removing hard water stains from nearly every surface in your home, with expert guidance from Janet Thaeler of Clean Freak and Germaphobe.
What Causes Hard Water Stains?
Calcium and magnesium deposits in hard water are left behind after water droplets evaporate, causing hard water stains. The white, chalky residue you see is the dried mineral buildup left on surfaces. In high-traffic areas, water frequently splashes onto surfaces, evaporates and leaves these minerals behind. Over time, this process repeats, leading to a buildup of stubborn deposits.
How To Remove Hard Water Stains From Every Surface
You’ll want to tackle hard water stains quickly and often to avoid a built-up layer, which is harder to remove. For all the surfaces addressed in this article, you’ll need gloves, a clean rag or scrub brush and various cleaning supplies, which will be outlined below. Where white vinegar is useful, opt for cleaning vinegar with a concentration of 10 to 30 percent.
For stubborn stains, let cleaning solutions sit for as long as an hour. Repeat treatments may also be necessary.
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