The term "bathroom humor" is something we've all heard. But, there's nothing funny in a dirty bathroom. Rusty toilet bowls are one of the worst eyesores. Even if the rest is clean, rusty streaks in the toilet can be a problem for guests as well as household members.



What causes rust stains in toilets?

Rusty stains in the bowl of the toilet indicate higher levels of iron in the water supply. While this is not a serious health problem, the iron particles may oxidize and change to a red-brown hue. Iron may also be found in older homes due to deteriorating pipes.

How to clean rust stain

It is not difficult to remove rust stains from a toilet seat if you don't have a particularly upset stomach. You need to use the correct cleaning products.

• Use bleach sparingly, as it can make the stain worse.

• Use a gentle scrubber to avoid scratching the porcelain surface.

• You can make your own cleaning solution using 1-part vinegar, 1-part water or 3-parts baking powder and 1-part vinegar as a paste.

• You can scrub the bowl with a non-abrasive or toilet brush.

• Make sure to use proper safety gear like rubber gloves and goggles.

• Turn off the water supply to the toilet and flush it to get rid of most of the water.

• You can try commercial cleaning products such as Borax and Bar Keepers Friend for stubborn rust stains.

Upgrading your plumbing

Although cleaning is an important part of keeping your toilet free from rust, it does not solve the iron problem in the water. It is possible to improve your plumbing system to prevent stains from ever occurring.

• Replacing old iron pipes with new copper or PEX pipe

• Add a water filter system to remove iron and other particles in the incoming water supply.

• A water softener system is installed to remove different minerals.