Bleach Stains on Cast Iron Tub

[TTTTom]

Whoops!

I got a little stupid and sprayed 50/50 bleach/water on my mildewed caulk and the bleach left brown stains on the tub.

Does anyone have an idea how to remove the stains - so I don't have to spend $300 to have the tub refinished?


TIA,

Tom

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[geobarn61]

I have not tried this but heard it worked for older tubs. Use Ivory dishwashing liquid. Paint it on the surface of the tub. Cover with cellophane over night and rinse completely the next day. Worst that could happen you're out $1.99

[TTTTom]

geobarn61,

I like your thinking ($1.99) !

The TOS for this site probably doesn't like advertising so I'll code my response, unless otherwise directed.

My wife buys what seems to be expensive (until you see the results) cleaning supplies from a well-known cleaning supply company in California. They have a product (which I only see every year or two in our cleaning closet - the "office" of the little lady and our two girls) called scum bum. It is supposed to remove rust stains - and actually did a pretty good job - but not 100%. Because it is not used that much, we don't order it very often, and I was the one to discover that we only had one "go" left.

So... I'll surely try your method - after I get done with my caulking job. The mildew on the tub caulk had begun to look like "molding", pardun the pun - thus, it is time for me to face the music and recaulk. Amazingly, the bleach (50/50 w/ water) completely eliminated 80% of the black nasty look. It restored the caulk to a dull white / clean looking color. But, about 20% had a slight crack in it.

When I recaulk this time, I am going to try the "fill the tub with water" trick, and hopefully won't fall in while caulking!

Two more questions

#1 What is a good product that will kill the mildew and not harm: the chrome on the faucet,etc. or cultured marble or the porcelain tub?
#2 Since I don't want to have to recaulk ever again - should I spray some form of mold killer on the caulk every 2 weeks / month??

Again, many thanks for your help - my 54 year-old back is not fond of this caulking process! Actually, like painting - I enjoy it - but the preparation / demolition work is what breaks your back.

Regards,

Tom

[Davestone]

Here's a link to tile and stone specific products.......http://www.aqua-mix.com/image.asp?image=/_img/product/grout_colorant_kit_open

[geobarn61]

TTTTom, sent you a PM on product name I prefer.

On second part of question, it should last far more than 2 weeks.