Common Reasons for Discoloration in Your Bathtub

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You’re here because you don’t want to scrub stains off your bathtub anymore. Here are some common reasons your bathtub might appear discolored.

1. Water hard

Limescale refers to the hard water leaves that are left behind by limescale deposits. Limescale can cause a swollen appearance and a strange color over time. Although limescale can look unattractive in the tub, it is usually easy to remove with elbow grease and special cleaners.

The hard water can also cause orange or brown stains that look like rust in fixtures. Iron content in hard water can cause these stains. The iron rusts and makes the color look rusty. These stains can be removed with vinegar. Another reason for rusty stains could be that your water pipes have rust.

However, limescale deposits may be difficult to remove from your pipes. Hard water can build up over time and cause your pipes to be less able to handle as much water. If your hard water levels are high and deposits accumulate quickly, talk to your plumber to install a water softener.

2. Soap Scum

Soap scum is a sticky, filmy substance that can be hard to remove with elbow grease. Soap scum can often cause discoloration, such as a light grayish color. Two things are required for soap scum to form: soap products and hard water.

Installing a water softener may mean that you won’t have to deal anymore with soap scum. Another option is to use a liquid product in the shower, such as a body wash. These products often contain a gentle surfactant and not a soap solution. If the scum problem you are having is not severe, you can use a mild cleaner like borax to scrub it away.

3. Strong cleaners

Chemical drain cleaners are more likely to cause discoloration by eating away at the finish. Chemicals such as lye (sodium hydroxide) can corrode and discolor the chrome plating on the handle, as well as other fittings.

Discoloration of the bathtub’s body is less likely with drain cleaner damage. It can, however, cause damage to shiny chrome plating and may even require the tub fittings to be replaced. Professional plumbers won’t recommend using chemical drain cleaners. If you are experiencing a slow or clogged drain, it is better to call a plumber.

There are other cleaners that can damage or discolor chrome.

Acid-containing cleaners
abrasive cleaners
chlorine bleach

Avoid using steel wool and similar scouring pads as they may scratch the chrome metal.

4. Mildew Stains

You may not be aware that mildew is growing on the bathtub’s side if you only use it for showers. This area of the bathtub may be hidden from view by the shower curtain, which can make it ideal for mildew growth.

Many bathroom cleaners can deal with mildew stains. For example, bleach-containing cleaners can be used to get rid of mildew stains. You should not use bleach to clean chrome fittings.

You can see that some stains and discolorations can be purely cosmetic. Others can have serious consequences for your plumbing’s functionality. With the addition of water softener, you can fix many types of discoloration including rust stains and mineral deposits as well as soap scum.

This post was written by Joey Denick. Joey is the Owner and Operator of Clog Kings. At Clog Kings, LLC, we pride ourselves on our dedication and efficiency. We know you don’t have time to waste. That’s why we work fast to get your home or commercial building back up and running in no time. If you are looking for plumbers in St.Petersburg FL then look no further because we got you covered!