It’s understandable if you can’t stand the ring-like stain that forms in the toilet bowl. No one does. The stain is not only unsightly but can also indicate the presence of germs.
Depending on how long the ring has developed, removing it might require a multi-step cleaning approach.
When it comes to getting rid of this discoloration, commercial cleaners come to mind. But many chemical products have ingredients that can reduce the lifespan of your toilet fixture. They can also affect your plumbing system.
An alternative to abrasives and bleach is the use of natural ingredients. They are effective and gentle on your toilet system.
This article explains two methods for getting rid of bowl rings and how to prevent stains from accumulating. That said, let’s get into the topic.
Causes of Bowl Ring
The accumulation of minerals, bacteria, or fecal matter in the toilet bowl water causes rings. These buildups then create a visible stain along the bowl water level.
The three top factors behind a toilet ring are mineral content in the water supply, hard water, and the buildup of bacterial and fecal matter. Before you know it, these culprits bond with the ceramic material of the bowl, leading to all sorts of discolorations.
Brown-colored or red rust rings are indicative of magnesium and calcium mineral deposits introduced through your water supply. A green or black ring signifies mold. The third type of toilet ring coloration is pink and is caused by bacteria buildup.
Let’s look at two safe methods to keep your bowl ring-free.
Method 1: How to Clean Bowl Ring with Pumice Stone
Pumice stone is a natural volcanic rock effective against bowl stains, including the bowl ring.
- Get a pumice stone. You can purchase one on Amazon or at the dollar store. Any pumice is fine but buy one with a handle (Pumie) made specifically for toilet cleaning. A longer handle means you won’t need to stick your hand in the bowl to get the job done.
- Put on gloves. Especially if you’re using a pumice stone without a handle, ensure you wear gloves to protect your hands from exposure.
- Wet your pumice stone and the bowl.
- Gently rub the pumice stone up and down and side to side on the ring and stains. The effect of pumice cleaning is instant. It doesn’t take minutes or hours to its effect. The cleaning result is instant.
- Rinse with water after scrubbing. If you have stains that persist, try again.
Method 2: Baking Soda and Vinegar Combination
Baking powder is a natural cleaner. Vinegar helps dissolve minerals. It is also effective against bacteria. Both ingredients combined are powerful in removing toilet stains.
- Sprinkle baking soda around the surface of the inside bowl. Be generous with the quantity but it doesn’t have to be too much.
- Wait at least one hour so the baking soda can have enough time to break down the stains. You can use a stopwatch to get the timing right. While you wait, prepare your vinegar.
- Spray your vinegar on the surface already coated with baking powder. You can use a bottle spray.
- Use a toilet brush to scrub away the mix. Don’t let vinegar stay for long in the bowl. Complete this step without any delay. Afterward, flush your toilet three to four times.
Preventing Bowl Ring and Stains
You can save yourself the hassle of always finding ways how to clean a bowl ring if you put some preventative measures in place. Below are three ways you can prevent bowl rings from developing.
- Flush regularly: Flush after you use the toilet. Though it’s good to conserve water, letting things sit perhaps for a next time will only cause fecal matter and bacteria to accumulate in the bowl.
- Regular cleaning: Have a toilet cleaning routine of at least once a week. Brush the inside of the bowl using non or mild abrasive toilet cleaner. Consider using vinegar or lemon juice periodically. The two agents contain acids that can help break down mineral deposits and eliminate stubborn stains.
- Install a water softener: Consider installing a water softener in your home to keep away limescale deposits in the bowl. You can handle this project yourself. A new water softener installation does not require plumbing expertise. But you can consider hiring a local plumber for professional installation.
- Clean Tank: The toilet tank becomes dirty with mineral buildup over time. So it is a part you want to clean from time to time. To not mess up with the components of the tank, you may need to engage the service of a local handyman. A service professional on-site can also help you check if there are other issues with your plumbing system causing stains.
Wrapping Up
Toilet rings are unpleasant eyesores caused by high mineral content in water and the build-up of fecal matter. If you have been looking everywhere for a guide on how to get a ring out of the toilet, this resource would be useful.
If it’s been a minute since the ring was formed, you may need to apply any of the removal methods a few times before getting a bowl that’s sparkling clean.
With regular cleaning and maintenance, you can prevent the accumulation of stains that can lead to difficult-to-clean rings. You may also have to make some changes to your toilet plumbing waterline to prevent rings caused by high water mineral content.
Soji Cleaners is a leading US commercial and residential cleaning company. When you call us for a cleaning project, rest assured we’ll give your bathroom and toilet fixtures the proper attention they deserve. You can also rely on the expertise of our service technicians to clean to satisfaction other sections of your home. We use safe products and practices, so you don’t have to worry about the safety of your household being in danger.
Check out the areas we serve, book a service in your location, and we’ll make your space sparkling clean once more.
