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How Much Vinegar Do I Put in the Toilet Tank to Remove Rust?

Wade Shaddy

Rust appears in the toilet tank as a reddish brown tint. It is not rust in the common sense, but is an accumulative result of minerals in hard water. It grows over time, into unsightly streaks that seem almost indestructible. You can deal with rust in toilet tanks without using harsh chemicals.

Use vinegar to remove rust stains.

Common vinegar will break down mineral rust without all the toxic fumes that comes from chemicals. Vinegar is affordable enough to use anytime you see rust beginning to form in your toilet tank.

Tip

Vinegar is far cheaper than any other type of toilet rust cleaner. Use it often to keep your toilet tank rust free. Apple cider or white vinegar work equally well.

Warning

Never mix vinegar with other types of toilet cleaners. Some cleaners contain chemicals that when combined with vinegar can produce toxic fumes.

  1. Remove the toilet tank lid.

  2. Pour in 1 quart of vinegar. Wait 24 hours.

  3. Scrub the tank with a stiff toilet brush. If the rust persists, pour in another quart of vinegar. Wait 24 hours and scrub it again.

The Drip Cap

  • Rust appears in the toilet tank as a reddish brown tint.
  • Vinegar is affordable enough to use anytime you see rust beginning to form in your toilet tank.
  • Scrub the tank with a stiff toilet brush.