Removing Stubborn Bathroom Stains

Written by Lee Wyatt (last updated May 5, 2025)

If there is one thing about the bathroom that no one really likes, then it has to be the fact that this room can collect stains like they are going out of style. For many people, removing stubborn bathroom stains is an all day task that never seems to end. The good news is that it doesn't always need to be like this. There are a few ticks and methods that you can use to get rid of those stubborn stains. However, even with these tricks in mind, you will still need to do some scrubbing. Anyone of the methods listed here will work, though you may want to exercise a little care to ensure that you don't damage anything fragile.

  • CLR. Perhaps one of the greatest aids to home cleaning ever, CLR (Calcium, Lime, and Rust Remover) can be used to help get rid of most types of stubborn stains. The first way that you can use this product is to simply spray a little bit onto the stained area and allow it to sit there for about five minutes. Scrub away the stain with a rubberized or green scrubbie, being careful to not press down too hard on the surface. Repeat as necessary until the stain has been removed.
  • Sandpaper. Use some 500 grit wet/dry sandpaper to help remove particularly stubborn stains in the bathroom. This works particularly well for older stains, and can help make the area look like new again. Be sure that you use light pressure to avoid gouging any porcelain or tile, and move in a circular motion. Periodically wipe away the stained area with a damp rag to ensure that you have a "clean" work area. When the stain has been removed, wash as you normally would to clean up any remaining residue.
  • Pumice stone. Pumice stones can work really well to help remove stubborn bathroom stains. However, extreme care needs to be taken when you use this method. Always make sure that the stone is damp or wet when you use it, periodically soaking it again. In addition, do not press too hard on the stone or you could end up gouging the tile, porcelain, or other material that you are cleaning. If the material gets gouged then you can expect to see many more stains in the future.
  • Specialized cleaners. There are also specially formulated cleaners that are designed to deal with particular types of stains, or particular stained material. Before you use any of these, make sure that you know what the material is that you will be cleaning, and that you have the correct cleaner for that material. Always follow the manufacturer's direction closely to avoid any mishaps.

Author Bio

Lee Wyatt

Contributor of numerous Tips.Net articles, Lee Wyatt is quickly becoming a regular "Jack of all trades." He is currently an independent contractor specializing in writing and editing. Contact him today for all of your writing and editing needs! Click here to contact. ...

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