Mineral deposits in fake marble bathtub
While I’m over here –
We have this faux marble bathtub that has streaks of mineral deposits on the bottom. Line-A-Away won’t faze it. What can I use to get it out?
This is an oval one-piece tup with separate side skirt. Have no idea what it’s made of. Acrylic? It was put in new 15 years ago by the builder.
PlaneWood by Mike_in_Katy (maker of fine sawdust!)
PlaneWood
Replies
Can you provide a photo?
What color are the deposits?
Are they only around the drain or do they extend up/ down the tub wall?
F.
Frankie -
They are only on the bottom of the tub. Where residual water sets for a while after the tub is drained. Mostly the 50% of the bottom on the end where the drain hole is. Color? Grey.
I've never had any luck with Lime-A-Way here. I figure we must have different minerals in the water or something. I use a squeegie on the shower walls after each shower. But, still a few deposits there. I've let Lime-A-Way set for half a day on several occasions with no results.
What kind of vinegar should I use? White or Apple?
PlaneWood by Mike_in_Katy (maker of fine sawdust!)PlaneWood
When you say faux marble, you mean plastic, not some other kind of stone or cementitious material? Avoid acids with stone or cement.
If white vinegar doesn't work, try Dow Bathroom Cleaner. After letting it foam for 5 or 10 minutes, use a soft scrub brush or a sponge with a nylon netting cover. Your stain may be more of a soap scum than minerals if a vinegar soak or Lime-Away doesn't break it down some. Don't wet the area first, the Bathroom Cleaner works much better when applied to dried scum.
Is your water very hard? A softener may help. You don't have to soften all the water in the house, just the supply to the hot water and maybe the cold to the bathrooms and laundry.
Try a vinegar soak line with a hand towell or face cloth and pour on the vinegar- if that doesn't work, automatic dishwashing detergent poweder, but try a small area, first.
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Have you tried Gel-gloss? Pink can, available at HD and probably Lowes.
No, I haven't tried that nor heard of it? Is that it's main purpose?
PlaneWood by Mike_in_Katy (maker of fine sawdust!)PlaneWood
Gel Gloss is a nice product.
It basically the same as auto "clearner/polish". That is a very fine abreshive and wax, but formulated for plastic tubs/showers.
Also you could try the "scratchess" abreasive cleaners - Soft scrub and Bon Amni.
http://www.gel-gloss.com/
View Image
Also this
http://www.dri-wash.com
good stuff for fiberglass showers too.View Image
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I have often worried that car wash products like this will get grit and dirt in your rag and just move it around or scratch something. I have a similar car wash product that you put a couple of capfuls in a bucket of water and it claims no rinse required. I guess if you use enough rags it is ok. Never seen or tried the one you suggested. I know the gel-gloss works well on my cultured marble vanity.
Bob
There is this plant called "horsetails" it has microscopic bits of silcon on it ridges. Its a natural sandpaper, it works great on aluminum, chrome, glass, stainless, low luster marble, but not on car paint for removing lime deposits.
Also baking soda.