Just like a lingering dinner guest who overstays their welcome, rust can be a tough visitor to remove from your porcelain toilet.
If your chemical-based cleaning products haven't managed to give rust the boot, it may be time to try something else: a pumice stone. That's right, this small piece of volcanic rock is the best way to get rid of stubborn rust rings and restore the majestic sparkle to your porcelain throne. Here's how:
You'll need: rubber gloves, pumice stone
1. Pick Your Pumice
If you don't already have one, pumice stones are available at your local hardware store for about $5 (they're usually stocked in both the cleaning and cosmetics aisle). We like Pumie because it comes with a convenient plastic handle, but any natural pumice stone will work.
2. Soak Your Pumice Stone in Water for a Few Minutes
While the stone is soaking, grab your toilet brush and splash water up around the ring. Note: It's very important to keep both the stone and the surface wet while cleaning to avoid scratching your porcelain.
3. Scrub the Rust Ring
Put on your rubber gloves and get to it! Depending on the mineral-contents of your water, you may have to scrub for a few minutes. However, be careful not to push down too hard – this can also scratch your porcelain! Light, even strokes are the name of the game.
4. Rinse Clean
Once the rust has been rubbed away, flush your toilet and enjoy the amazing sparkle!
5. Put Your Pumice to Work Elsewhere
Pumice stones can be used on most porcelain surfaces, including bathtubs and sinks. Just be sure to steer clear of grout, faucets and other finishes because pumice can easily damage them.
Note: This is a deep cleaning task and should only be done 4-6 times a year. If you use a pumice stone for your regular bathroom cleaning routine, you may wind up damaging your porcelain.
