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After sharing this in-depth post on citric acid, readers wanted to know more ways to use it!
This DIY Citric acid paste is fantastic for hard water stains in hard to reach places.
I wanted to share a quick post for you showing how to make it and how it works.
DIY Citric Acid Paste For Hard Water
If you have a faucet or nozzle that can be removed, I would recommend going with our vinegar/lemon juice solution which allows for soaking.
This DIY mix is going to be better for items that cannot be removed for soaking. Things like large shower heads, glass shower doors, around faucets, and other areas like this.
Remember to use caution with acidic solutions just like you do with vinegar! Do not use acidic solutions on grout, natural stone surfaces, or anything with a finish. Please read our in-depth post on citric acid to learn more.
Here is a great before and after video we did on the kitchen faucet too.
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp citric acid ( I buy this one)
- a few drops of water
- Toothbrush, small scrub brush or sponge
Directions:
- In a small bowl or container, add the citric acid.
- Next, slowly add in water. You will add a few drops at a time to make the solution look like a paste (see picture below). If you add too much water, the citric acid will just dissolve. This is why I recommend adding in water slowly until you get a paste like texture. It is gritty like sand, but it will have a texture that can be applied to a hard surface.
- Water will settle to the top of this solution, so gently mix before applying and during application to keep it as even as possible.
How To Use This DIY Citric Acid Paste:
- Dip your toothbrush or small scrub brush into the mixture, then apply to the area in quick, small circular motions. As you apply, you scrub a little bit and make sure to cover the entire surface that has hard water.
- Let this mixture sit on the surface for about 5 minutes, then scrub again.
- Rinse off with water.
What I Like To Use This On:
I use this on my large shower head, my bathtub faucets, my glass shower door, and all around my stainless steel sink where hard water builds up around the faucet.
I let my shower door get really dirty again to show you how well this paste works for the door. Picture for this is below.
Where Can I Buy Citric Acid?
I buy this one from Amazon. I buy this brand because it is very good quality, but I also like the jar it comes in. It keeps air from getting in and hardening the citric acid. Many brands come in a bag that seals, so I always buy this one in the jar. It will last a long time and stay fresh!
I hope this quick blog post today is helpful and handy!
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Alexis is an investigative chemist sharing her expertise in cleaning, skincare, gardening, and home hacks. She personally tests out products like the best skincare products or home products then shares not only the science behind how it works, but also her personal results. She is the mom of two living in Texas with her husband. Find her on Instagram for fantastic videos, tips, and behind the scenes.
What a bloody awesome post, I have never used a citric acid paste but my daughter has
Thank you! It is really a handy, easy to use item. I love how well it works for this!
I have been trying to get Citric Acid here I our little town, they look at me like I’m crazy. Now I can get it. Thank you
I like to buy it on Amazon! It is hard to find locally for a good price 🙂
I live in Florida and have well water with a softener. I am trying to clean my Quartz counter tops which I have everywhere. Kitchen, and Bathroom and walk in shower bench. They are developing an orange rusty edge and have lost there shine in spots. How do I clean them without harming them? I have never lived with well water and hard water at the same time. It would be nice to be able to use the same cleaning product on my countertops and subway tile in both the kitchen and show. Please help very frustrated!!
I love all you tips and helpful posts and use your cleaning products. Especially the pumus stone for the toilet ring!
Thanks
Martha Cannon
Quartz and all natural stones are difficult to deal with when it comes to rust because you can’t use anything acidic. The manufacturer of most quartz says you can use baking soda and water, make a paste and scrub it gently. Or you can find a store-bought products labeled for quartz. My mom has quartz and her manufacturer said it was safe to use Bar Keepers Friend gently. Not all quartz is the same though, so definitely check with the manufacturer guide lines before using anything.
Would this affect oil rubbed bronze finish on faucet or shower head?
I have had better luck using citric acid on my oil rubbed bronze vs vinegar…but I would test a small area first to see before using this all over the faucet. Depending on brand, age of faucet, and type of oil rubbed finish, it can vary.
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Years ago, I put vinegar in a plastic bag and fastened it with a rubber band. Took all the finish off! Glad to know another way!
It is definitely a good idea to not use acids on anything like oiled rubbed bronzed or copper finishes, but all other types should do well with it.