Orange stains in the bathtub or on the toilet are really unpleasant, especially when you strive to always have a spotless and impeccable bathroom.
This type of stain is caused by three different factors: accumulation of iron and magnesium present in the water, mold or other bacteria. Chemicals are generally used to remove orange stains , however, although they are effective, they are toxic and harmful to our health.
If your home’s water contains high levels of iron or magnesium, they eventually mix with soap scum, oxidize when they come into contact with air, and form the dreaded orange stains .
A different story for pink mold, which is actually not a fungus but a bacteria present in water and which ends up depositing on bathroom surfaces.
If you want to get rid of orange stains without using chemicals, you can apply one of the following tips.
Lemon juice and water
A simple and safe alternative to bleach can be made by mixing lemon juice with warm water. Squeeze a few lemons into a spray bottle and apply them to the stains, making sure to cover all of them.
Leave the lemon juice on for 10 minutes, then scrub well with a sponge or toothbrush and rinse thoroughly with warm water. Repeat if necessary.
Baking soda and white vinegar
When these two ingredients are mixed, they generate a chemical reaction that is also one of the most effective products for cleaning, disinfecting and degreasing surfaces.
Mix two parts white vinegar to one part water and pour into a spray bottle, then spray on the orange stains.
Wait about 15 minutes, then sprinkle baking soda on top and wait for the chemical reaction to complete. Let it sit for at least an hour before scrubbing with a sponge and rinsing. Repeat more than once if necessary.
How to prevent orange spots
Remember to dry shower or bathtub surfaces immediately after using them. Bacteria thrive in moist environments.
There are filters on the market that can block most of the iron and magnesium present in water. Installing one at home can prevent the formation of annoying orange stains.