We all experience it -- stepping into the bathroom and seeing the murky layer of gray or white dirt on the tiles, shower doors, or faucets. We open the window and there we see it too, the same murky dirt blurring the window glass. We then press and drag down a spot with our finger but unfortunately the dirt won't come off.
The stubborn grime on these household surfaces is what we call hard water stains. Where did it come from?
Tracing hard water stains
When the water from the stream passes through soil and rocks on its way to our water supply, it picks up and carries with it calcium and magnesium. The combination of water and high content of these dissolved minerals result in hard water substance that ends up in our household. They are quite tough to remove.
Yet we can't wait to remove hard water stains. Who wouldn't want to clear and clean windows from outside and a squeaky clean bathroom?
Unfortunately, water and detergent soap wouldn't cut the job. Fortunately, however, finding the right solution to get rid of the stain is quite easy. You can either make your own or buy the best quality hard stain remover in the market.
Why remove stubborn stains
- The DIY way
One of the most common and easiest ways to remove hard water stains is by using a vinegar dishwashing liquid solution. Follow these steps:
- Mix equal parts white vinegar and dishwashing solution in a bowl.
- Heat it in a microwave oven for 1 minute.
- Let the solution cool and then pour it into a spray bottle.
- Spray the mixture all over the stained surface and let it stand for about 15-20 minutes. Use a face mask as the smell can be pretty strong.
- Rubbing away the dirt off the tiles or windows, glass shower doors, or bathtub with a mildly abrasive sponge or a washcloth.
- Rinse off the sudsy solution with warm water to help you loosen the dirt or mixture off the surface.
- Wipe off excess water from the surface with a microfiber cloth or a squeegee.
Understanding Hard Water Stains
While the appearance of hard water stains is undoubtedly unappealing, there's more to the story. These stains can potentially have longer-lasting implications on your household surfaces than you might think.
The Underlying Impact of Hard Water Stains
- Degradation of Surfaces: Over time, hard water stains can erode the protective finish on many household surfaces, making them more susceptible to further damage and reducing their lifespan.
- Financial Implications: If hard water stains are left untreated for extended periods, they can permanently damage surfaces. This means you might replace entire fixtures or fittings, which can be costly.
- Health Concerns: While hard water stains aren't harmful, the accumulation of minerals can sometimes become a breeding ground for bacteria, especially in warm, moist environments like bathrooms.
Preventing Hard Water Stains: Proactive Steps
Before hard water stains even become an issue, there are preventive measures you can adopt.
- Water Softeners: Investing in a water softener system can reduce the minerals responsible for hard water, thus preventing the stains in the first place.
- Regular Cleaning: While it might seem like a chore, regular cleaning can prevent the build-up of hard water stains, ensuring they don't get to set in deeply.
- Protective Coatings: Several products on the market offer protective coatings for surfaces prone to hard water stains, creating a barrier between the surface and the water.
Exploring Natural Alternatives
In addition to vinegar, several natural alternatives can be effective against hard water stains:
- Lemon Juice: The natural acidity of lemon juice makes it an excellent solution for breaking down hard water stains.
- Baking Soda: When paired with vinegar, baking soda can act as a mild abrasive, helping to scrub away stubborn stains without damaging the underlying surface.
Use Bring It On Cleaner
If you want to skip all the trouble of mixing kitchen items and inhaling the powerful vinegar-dishwashing liquid smell, Bring It On Cleaner can remove hard water stains for you in no time with professional results -- no sweat.
Designed to keep your house grime-free and yourself stress-free, Bring It On Cleaner is one of the most effective yet inexpensive hard stain remover in the market.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the vinegar solution on kitchen appliances?
Yes, but always ensure you rinse thoroughly and check the manufacturer's guidelines before applying.
How long does Bring It On Cleaner take to work?
It often works quickly, but letting it sit for a few minutes for tougher stains can yield better results.
Are there other DIY methods besides vinegar?
Yes, there are other methods using baking soda, lemon, etc., but vinegar is popular due to its efficacy.
See for yourself how Bring It On Cleaner works its magic. Check this link for more details.