What is the Solution for Hard Water Deposits in a Ceramic Tile Shower?
Estimated Reading Time: 2 MinutesWhat should you do about hard water deposits on your ceramic tile shower?
Hard water deposits can build up on ceramic tile in a shower, leaving behind an unsightly residue. Here are suggestions for removing and preventing hard water deposits.
NOTE: Do not use vinegar to clean calcium-based natural stone, such as marble. This can cause acid etch damage to your shower.
Cleaning Instructions
To clean hard water deposits from ceramic tile, Fred Hueston, Chief Technical Director of SurpHaces and Owner of Stone Forensics says, “Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the affected area and allow the solution to dwell long enough to soften the deposits. Use a soft bristle brush or a non-abrasive scrubbing pad to scrub the residue. Rinse and repeat, if needed.”
For very stubborn stains, Hueston suggests, “Use a professional tile cleaner specifically designed for hard water deposits. Follow the manufacturers instructions on the label.”
How to Inhibit Hard Water Deposits
To inhibit the formation of hard water deposits, Hueston says you should consider using a squeegee to remove excess water from the tile after each use of the shower.
Hard water deposits are caused when minerals in water, such as calcium and magnesium, are left behind after water evaporates. Removing the water with a squeegee, keeps these minerals from settling on the tile building up over time.
An added benefit of using squeegee to remove water is that it helps prevent mold and mildew from forming.
How to Prevent Hard Water Deposits
Although a solution of vinegar and water will help remove hard water spotting, and a squeegee can help inhibit buildup, there’s really only one sure way to rid yourself of the problem. Hueston says, “The permanent fix would be to install a water softener. A water softener will remove most of the minerals that cause hard-water deposits. You’ll probably use less soap and shampoo, too, which means you’ll avoid soap build-up, as well.”
