No matter how meticulous you’re when washing plastic containers, hard water will always leave a chalky-like residue on their surface, making them look old & dull. And the cloudy residue is what people called “hard water spots”.
The calcium & magnesium deposits present in the hard water may be safe to consume in small quantities. Although, it doesn’t make the food & plastic cutlery look unhygienic & unappetizing.
So, if you notice any cloudy look on your plastic appliances, then don’t get worried, because this frizzlife blog has got you covered. Below, we have discussed some of the most effective ways to remove hard stains from plastic. So, let’s take a look at them!
Also, read our latest blog post about The Threat of Heavy Metals With Human Health
Hand Sanitizer:
To eliminate hard water stains from plastic, you can use sanitiser – because its active ingredient is alcohol.
You just have to squirt sanitiser into the plastic container or cutlery, then rub, wash, rinse, and dry it.
White Vinegar:
Using vinegar for removing hard water stains is similar to bleach, but bleach can be harmful. And nobody wants to use toxic chemicals to clean their plastic containers. So, we recommend you to opt for a safer alternative white vinegar.
It is perfect for removing hard water stains since it breaks down bacteria & minerals deposits that are in your plastic. Now, let’s take a look at how you can white vinegar to remove hard water stains from plastic.
First, Mix two teaspoons of white vinegar for every cup of water in a large basin.
Now, place hard water stained containers in that large basin while making sure that they’re fully soaked.
After this, just leave the plastic containers soaked for at least 1-2 hours.
Now, dry the containers using a cloth. However, don’t rinse with hard water as it defeats the performance of white vinegar.
Lastly, air-dry the plastic containers overnight to completely eliminate the stench of white vinegar.
Soften Your Water:
If you’re looking for a permanent solution to remove hard water stains from plastic, then you should consider softening the water you use while washing plastic cutlery or containers.
There are multiple ways to soften your water:
Water Filtration System:
Installing a water filter will remove harmful contaminants from the water while ensuring that it is clean and safe. Since here we are talking about kitchen work, then under-sink water filters are perfect. Because they are compact, easy to install, and affordable.
Water Softening System:
As the name suggests, these systems make sure that your water is softened by eliminating all the bad minerals using a special process called ion exchange. This process takes out calcium & magnesium and replaces them with sodium ions.
Baking Soda:
Using Baking soda can also remove hard water stains from plastic. Moreover, it is also good for removing oil residues.
Procedure: First, make baking soda paste, and then apply it to the discolored container. Now, leave it for 20-30 min, after that clean the container with a cloth. Lastly, wash the container, rinse, and dry.
Lemon:
You can also rub the container or cutlery with lemon juice and leave it in the light of the sun for at least 1-2 today. A combination of lemon and the sun’s ultra-violet rays will remove discolouration. Doing this will also kill bad bacteria.
Limescale Removers:
People can also use limescale (hardness minerals) removers that are commercially available. These solutions have been completely tested to digest enzymes and eliminate unwanted chemicals.
Always, make sure that you are following the instructions given on limescale remover.
Things To Keep In Mind:
Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Never use harsh chemicals, like bleach, on plastic. This will damage the material and make it more susceptible to staining in the future.
Be sure to read the labels on any commercial cleaners you use. Some of them may not be safe for use on plastic.
If you're not sure how your plastic will react to a particular cleaner or method, it's always best to err on the side of caution and use the gentlest approach possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are hard water stains?
Hard water stains are mineral deposits that can build up on surfaces that come into contact with hard water. Hard water is a type of water that has a high concentration of minerals, like calcium and magnesium. These minerals can leave behind unsightly stains on surfaces like shower doors, faucets, and sinks.
How do hard water stains form on plastic?
Hard water stains can form on plastic when water droplets dry and leave behind mineral deposits. This can happen if you have hard water, or if the plastic is exposed to water for an extended period of time.
How you can remove hard water stains from plastic?
There are a few different ways that you can remove hard water stains from plastic. One method is to use a white vinegar and water solution. Vinegar is a natural acid that can break down mineral deposits.
To use this method, mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution onto the stained areas and let it sit for a few minutes. Now, use a scrub brush to through away the stains. Rinse the area with clean water when you're finished.
Another way to remove hard water stains from plastic is to use a commercial hard water stain remover. These products are designed specifically to remove mineral deposits and hard water stains. Follow the instructions on the product label to use the remover.
What can you do to prevent hard water stains on plastic?
There are a few things that you can do to prevent hard water stains on the plastic. One thing that you can do is to wipe down surfaces that come into contact with hard water after each use. This will remove any mineral deposits that have been left behind.
Another thing that you can do is to install a water softener. A water softener is a device that is installed on your waterline. It removes minerals from the water before they can cause stains.
Final words:
Hard water stains can be difficult to remove, but there are a few ways to tackle them. Try scrubbing with a soft cloth and mild soap, or use a vinegar solution. If the stains are stubborn, you may need to use a commercial hard water stain remover.