We get more emails regarding the removal of stains than almost any
other topic! It's something we all have in common, regardless of where
in the world we live. If one method doesn't work, try another! There is
so much variation as far as surfaces, age of stain, and other conditions
that what works for one person, doesn't always work for the next.
RUST STAINS ON TUBS & SINKS
Mix a cream of tartar, which is a mild acid, with water to make
a paste and place on the rust stains. Rub after it sits for a little
while and rinse. You may need to do this a few times.
You can also try a paste made with borax and lemon juice and
allow it to sit on the stain until dry, then rinse. One last paste
that you can try is one of scouring powder, cream of tartar and
peroxide. Allow this one to sit for 1/2 hour then rinse. Don't scrub,
especially on fiberglass tubs.
One of our subscribers, Susan, shares her favorite products for
removing rust and stains.
"The very best product to remove rust from tubs, showers and
sinks is Zap. It's concentrated, so make sure to dilute it. I
bought some yesterday at Andersons for about $6, it came
as a twin pack, with scrubbers (which you don't really need),
and a little bottle of Zap for colored grout. Use in well ventilated
area and don't leave on any metal for any period of time or it
will discolor it. Takes care of the rust in about ten minutes
with little or no scrubbing, also removes soap scum!
The best thing for toilets is Zud. Price is about $2, it comes
as a powder or a new liquid version. Sprinkle it in the bowl,
use toilet brush, add water to allow solution to cover water
line ring, then sprinkle a little more on sides where rusty
stripes are. Let sit for one hour, swish with brush and flush.
Works wonders! If you have rusty whites from the laundry,
use Rit Rust Remover, follow directions. Do an entire load
at a time, just don't use it on colors! I realize these products
are not all natural, but they work better than anything I've ever
tried. Save your elbows for playing ball with the kids."
Melly shared "To remove rust from white clothing, soap the clothing,
do not rinse, put lemon juice on the rust spot, add some
milk. Let stand overnight. Following morning, hand wash
spot. It should go easily."
Catherine, our resident Herb Lady, shared her favorite: "I have found Bar Keeper's
Friend (they have a website and have been around since
1882) to be one of the best cleaners for rust stains, even
on clothes. It comes in a can like Comet. On clothes make
a paste and gently work in on both sides of cloth and let
sit (white toothpaste also works this way), then wash as
usual. Sink stains, just need the BKF to sit, wet on the
stain for about a minute. The BFK is safe for septic
systems also."
GARAGE STAINS
I was reading your "household tip" on removing oil from a
garage floor and wanted to tell you of one I have used. Coca
Cola!!!! Works great but makes me wonder what it may be
doing to a persons stomach...~Val
If an automobile drips oil onto concrete surfaces, spread
granule soap powder ( Cheer, etc. ) onto the oil spot.
A good way to apply is to build a small dam and dampen
the product with water also it is best to catch the spot
when small ( 1" or so in diameter ). ~Ron Schnell
HARD WATER OR MINERAL DEPOSITS
Make a paste of cream of tartar and hydrogen peroxide
or cream of tartar and white vinegar. Rub the paste
lightly into the stain and allow to it to dry for about
an hour. Rinse thoroughly and buff dry.
Another method: For the shower stall or around a
sink faucet, soak an old washcloth or rag in straight
vinegar and lay the cloth over the area for as long as
needed. Scrub gently and rinse.
Toilet stains are often tougher:
To remove tough toilet stains, use a pumice stone. Empty
the toilet bowl of water. Then soak the pumice stone in
water. Rub the stains/areas but don't scrub too hard.
Another option: Make a paste of Borax and lemon juice.
Let it sit for a couple of hours, scrub with a toilet brush
and rinse.
TAR STAINS
Elizabeth emailed that she has a Kaki color skirt that has
splatters of tar on the front that won't come off. I did some
research and tar is a difficult one.I found several methods
for removing tar, but I'm a unsure of some of them as far
as the remedy itself leaving a stain. For instance, rubbing
margarine on the tar spot and then washing. This could
leave a grease stain, but then again, if you pretreat and
wash it might be fine and better than tar..
Other options: Lestoil full strength on the stain, and then
place it in a plastic bag over night. Wash the next day in
very hot water. May take two times and line dry each time.
One of the concentrated orange cleaners will often remove
tar as well. Same precautions on the cleaner staining. If
all else fails call an auto parts store and see what they
recommend. There are some strong removers out there,
so use carefully.
About the Author:
Brenda Hyde is a freelance writer and editor of Old Fashioned Living. She and
her family live in a 100 year old house and are experts at Do-it-Yourself projects
on a budget! Visit HERE to sign up for her free tips newsletter.
