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Most of the time, the cause of bathtub discoloration is your water. In addition, the problem could be due to shampoos or conditions, but that is less likely. We have made a list of ways to deal with bathtub discoloration, as well as some tips to deal with the problem permanently.

Types of Bathtub Stains

Orange/Red Stains

The presence of orange or red stains is due to high amounts of iron in your water source. These kinds of stains are usually found around the drain of the tub, and most often if you have city water. Treat with:

• Lemon Juice
• White Vinegar
• CLR (Calcium, Lime & Rust Remover)

White Stains

White stains can be either soap scum or limescale buildup. Limescale is not dangerous to you, however, can damage your water heater and plumbing. Treat with:

• Lemon Juice
• White Vinegar
• CLR (Calcium, Lime & Rust Remover)

Yellow Stains

Yellow stains are most often an issue in homes with well water but can happen in homes with city water as well. The yellow tint is caused by an organic material called tannins and usually causes water to have a tart aftertaste and an earthy smell. Treat with:

• White Vinegar & Baking soda

Black or Brown Stains

Black or dark brown stains around the drain are due to high levels of magnesium in your water. Magnesium is not harmful and is essential to human health. Black or brown stairs happen most often in homes with well water. Treat with:

• Hydrogen Peroxide & Cream of Tartar
• White Vinegar & Baking Soda
• Floride Toothpaste

Blue-Green Stains

Blueish green stains in your bathtub are likely caused by acidic water. This is a problem more common in the Northeastern region of the US and can damage your appliances over time. Treat with:

• White Vinegar & Baking Soda

What if I Can’t Remove the Stain?

Unfortunately, some stains may not come out no matter what you try. In that case, there are more permanent methods to deal with bathtub discoloration.

Get Your Tub Refinished

You can look into getting your tub, and your surround refinished or resurfaced. Refinishing a tub involves sanding the tub with an acidic solution to make the surface porous, and then spraying with an epoxy or other latex-like coating. Refinishing is a great option for most tubs, however, the process involves highly noxious fumes. If your bathroom does not have a window or good ventilation system, it can be dangerous as well as a fire hazard. Be turn to hiring a professional for tub refinishing.

Remodel the Wet Area

If refinishing the tub doesn’t sound appealing to you, you can look into remodeling the wet area only. Many people will remodel the wet area, and leave the rest of the bathroom for another time to cut down on costs. The best replacement for a tub is one made of acrylic, which won’t stain like fiberglass or porcelain tubs. Acrylic tubs come in variety of options and are available for both freestanding and built-in tubs.

Conclusion

Bathtub discoloration is generally due to mineral deposits in your water system. Depending on if your home has well or city water, you might have different issues. Most stains can be treated with lemon juice, vinegar, baking soda, or some other home remedy. For more stubborn stains, you might look into refinishing or replacing your tub.

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