4. Using Harsh Acids on Plated Metal and Stone to Remove Hard Water
This is one of the most expensive mistakes on the list, which far too many people can sadly attest to. As we explained in mistake #1, acids are the easiest solution to remove hard water stains because they dissolve minerals and make them brittle, making them easier to scrub off. The only big problem is that acids dissolve lots of other things, too, many of which you paid good money for!!
If you read the fine print on the back of most hard water cleaners, you’ll see that they warn you not to use their product on chrome and other plated metals, acid-sensitive stone (like marble, travertine, and granite), as well as any other delicate surface like painted walls or finished wood. Patina-coated surfaces, like aged bronze and copper sinks, are also doomed, as the acid will strip off the oxidation, leaving them shinier than a new penny!
Spoil alert, most modern bathrooms, especially the pretty and newly remodeled ones, include at least one of the things on the No-No list! All it takes is a quick Google to reveal thousands of stories of people corroding their tub drains, pitting their stone tiles, stripping their sinks, marring their cabinets under the sink, dulling their vanity stone, and more! Even seemingly mild acids, like vinegar and Bar Keepers Friend, can cause the same havoc if applied straight or left too long.
