Rust On Bottom Of Bathtub

Rust on Bottom of Bathtub: Causes, Prevention, and Removal

Bathtubs are an essential part of any bathroom, but they can be prone to rust, especially on the bottom. Rust on the bottom of a bathtub can be unsightly and unsanitary, and it can also cause damage to the bathtub itself. In this article, we will discuss the causes of rust on the bottom of bathtubs, how to prevent it, and how to remove it if it does occur.

Causes of Rust on the Bottom of Bathtubs

There are several factors that can contribute to rust on the bottom of bathtubs. These include:

Prolonged exposure to water: Water is the main cause of rust. When water sits on the bottom of a bathtub for an extended period, it can start to corrode the metal, leading to rust.

Hard water: Hard water contains high levels of minerals, such as calcium and magnesium. These minerals can build up on the bottom of the bathtub and create a scale. This scale can trap water and moisture, which can lead to rust.

Poor drainage: If the drain in your bathtub is not properly draining, water can pool on the bottom of the tub. This can lead to rust, especially if the water is hard.

Soap and shampoo residue: Soap and shampoo residue can build up on the bottom of the bathtub and create a film. This film can trap water and moisture, which can lead to rust.

Abrasive cleaners: Using harsh or abrasive cleaners on your bathtub can damage the finish and make it more susceptible to rust.

Prevention of Rust on the Bottom of Bathtubs

There are several steps you can take to prevent rust on the bottom of your bathtub:

Keep your bathtub clean and dry: Always clean your bathtub after use and make sure to dry it thoroughly. This will help to prevent water and moisture from building up and causing rust.

Soften your water: If you have hard water, you can soften it using a water softener. This will help to reduce the amount of minerals in the water and make it less likely to cause rust.

Use a rust-resistant bathtub: When choosing a new bathtub, look for one that is made from a rust-resistant material, such as stainless steel or acrylic.

Apply a rust-resistant coating: You can also apply a rust-resistant coating to the bottom of your bathtub. This will help to protect the metal from corrosion and prevent rust from forming.

Use a bathtub mat: Placing a bathtub mat on the bottom of the tub can help to absorb water and keep it from pooling. This can help to prevent rust from forming.

Removal of Rust on the Bottom of Bathtubs

If you do find rust on the bottom of your bathtub, there are several methods you can use to remove it. These include:

Baking soda and vinegar: Make a paste by mixing equal parts baking soda and vinegar. Apply the paste to the rust stains and let it sit for several hours. Rinse the paste off with warm water and scrub the stains with a soft brush. This method is effective for removing light to moderate rust stains.

CLR: CLR is a commercial rust remover that can be used to remove rust from bathtubs. Apply CLR to the rust stains and let it sit for the amount of time specified on the product label. Rinse the CLR off with warm water and scrub the stains with a soft brush. CLR is effective for removing moderate to heavy rust stains.

Muriatic acid: Muriatic acid is a strong acid that can be used to remove rust from bathtubs. However, muriatic acid is dangerous to use and should only be used as a last resort. Apply muriatic acid to the rust stains and let it sit for the amount of time specified on the product label. Rinse the muriatic acid off with warm water and scrub the stains with a soft brush. Muriatic acid is effective for removing heavy rust stains.

When removing rust from your bathtub, always wear gloves and eye protection. Rust removers can be harmful to your skin and eyes. Also, be sure to rinse your bathtub thoroughly after using any rust remover. Rust on the bottom of a bathtub can be unsightly and unsanitary, but it can be prevented and removed. By following the tips in this article, you can keep your bathtub rust-free and looking its best.