Quck answer
Corrosion on bathroom faucets can be unsightly and can affect their functionality. To remove corrosion, you can follow these steps:
1. Start by turning off the water supply to the faucet.
2. Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
3. Spray the vinegar solution onto the corroded areas of the faucet.
4. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the vinegar to break down the corrosion.
5. Use a soft toothbrush or cloth to gently scrub away the corrosion.
6. Rinse the faucet thoroughly with water.
7. Dry the faucet with a clean cloth to prevent further corrosion.
Regular maintenance and cleaning can help prevent corrosion from occurring in the future.
The quality of tap water can vary greatly depending on your location. However, it is important to understand the characteristics of your tap water as it can have a surprisingly significant impact on your faucets. Metal can be susceptible to corrosion if it is unstable in its surroundings. When tap water is introduced, the corrosion process can occur much faster.
There are several methods to treat mineral buildup or the initial stages of corrosion on bathroom faucets and potentially restore their shiny and new appearance. Once treated, there are also a few techniques you can use to prevent corrosion and mineral buildup from recurring.
What Is Corrosion?
Corrosion refers to the deterioration of any metal due to contact with the environment, while rust specifically refers to the oxidation of iron and iron alloys. Bathroom faucets are constantly exposed to water, making them particularly prone to corrosive damage, especially if the tap water is more acidic.
Low pH in tap water can be the main cause of faucet corrosion. Initially, corroded patches on faucets may only be a minor aesthetic concern, but they can become more serious over time.
First, Clean the Faucet
The initial step in treating corroded bathroom faucets is to clean them thoroughly. Begin by using dish soap and water to remove any dirt, and then use white vinegar to eliminate any stubborn grime and mineral buildup that remains.
Treating Bathroom Faucet Corrosion
Gentle acids are the most effective way to treat early-stage faucet corrosion. Soak your faucet in white vinegar for approximately five minutes to loosen the corroded patches, then scrub with a sponge. Repeat the process if necessary until all corrosion is removed. If you do not have vinegar, you can use lemon juice or a cola drink as substitutes, as they are similarly acidic. After treating the faucets with any of these products, rinse and dry them thoroughly.
Another method to treat rust, specifically, is to rub your faucets with aluminum foil, according to Bob Vila. By dipping balled-up foil in water, you can gently scrub the rusted areas, while the aluminum aids in rust removal through a chemical reaction.
It is also important to know when to accept defeat. If left untreated, corrosion can become much more difficult to remove. Corrosion can be an opportunity to replace older or outdated-looking bathroom faucets. New bathroom faucets are relatively inexpensive, easy to install, and can breathe new life into an older sink.
What Is Mineral Buildup?
In addition to corrosion, you may notice a flaky, white buildup on your faucets. This is not corrosion but a buildup of mineral deposits. Mineral deposits on your faucet are not the same as corrosion, although they can contribute to corrosion on your fixtures. You can also remove mineral or scale buildup on your faucets by using gentle acids such as vinegar, lemon juice, or cola. Keeping your taps free of scale can also help slow down corrosion.
Maintaining Your Bathroom Faucet
After restoring your bathroom faucets to their original condition, it is crucial to take care of them to ensure they remain in good shape. Applying a polish like Brasso after cleaning can help prevent the recurrence of corrosion. It is also important to handle the cleaning process with care. Using harsh cleansers or scrubbers can damage the metal surface, making it more susceptible to corrosion.
If you observe any signs of corrosion, it is essential to address them promptly. Corrosion can spread rapidly, so the key to dealing with bathroom faucet corrosion is to take action as early as possible.
