The Spruce / Adrian Mangel

Hard water stains can be unsightly and increasingly difficult to remove over time.

How Often Should You Clean Hard Water Stains in Toilets?

We also recommend using rubber gloves to protect your skin from these strong products.

Methods for Removing Hard Water Stains in the Toilet

The Spruce / Adrian Mangel

Pour Vinegar in the Toilet Bowl

Pour about two cups of vinegar into the toilet bowl.

Let it sit for about one minute.

You should hear some fizzing.

Varify water test on orange background

Let the solution sit for about ten minutes.

Let the Solution Sit

Let the vinegar and baking soda sit for up to 30 minutes.

Want more cleaning and organizing tips?

Hand using the Mr Clean Magic Eraser to clean a shower head

Yes, you’re able to leave baking soda and vinegar in your toilet overnight.

Vinegar is safe to use as a toilet bowl cleaner and will not damage the porcelain.

In fact, vinegar is milder than many commercial toilet bowl cleaners.

GE Smart Water Softener System

Environmental Alternatives for the Kitchen.

Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection.

Cleaning Supplies and Household Chemicals.

person pouring vinegar into the toilet

The Spruce /Taylor Nebrija

person adding baking soda to the toilet

The Spruce /Taylor Nebrija

person swishing baking soda around with a toilet brush

The Spruce /Taylor Nebrija

toilet flushing

The Spruce /Taylor Nebrija

person wiping down a toilet seat

The Spruce / Taylor Nebrija