How long does CLR take to remove calcium?

Author: Dr. Ada Purdy MD  |  Last update: Wednesday, November 19, 2025

Apply directly to the stain with a brush, cloth or sponge. After 2 minutes rinse promptly with cold water. Never leave Calcium, Lime and Rust Remover on an area for longer than two minutes. If the stain does not disappear, repeat this process and add more Calcium, Lime and Rust Remover solution as necessary.

Does CLR really work on calcium?

Customers say that CLR is an effective solution for removing calcium, lime, and rust stains from various surfaces, particularly in bathrooms and kitchens. Many users appreciate its ability to restore the appearance of faucets, showerheads, and toilets, often noting significant improvements after soaking.

How long does it take for CLR to work?

CLR Grease & Oil Remover should only be left on a surface for 1-5 minutes before being rinsed off thoroughly with cool water. If the stain persists, repeat the process, instead of leaving the solution on the surface for a longer amount of time.

What happens if you leave CLR on too long?

Let the CLR sit for around 2 to 5 minutes. For light stains, 2 minutes should do the trick, but if there's heavy buildup, you can leave it for a bit longer. Don't leave it longer than five minutes, as this can damage your toilet's surfaces and parts.

Should I wear gloves when using CLR?

Use in a well ventilated area. To use CLR Metal Clear, wearing rubber gloves, dip a damp cloth or sponge into the solution, rub briskly over the area you are cleaning, let it soak for two to three minutes and then rinse with cold water.

CLR - How to clean your Sinks & Drains with CLR Calcium, Limescale & Rust Remover

Does CLR work better than vinegar?

Bottom Line

The main difference between CLR and vinegar is that CLR is stronger and better at removing mineral build ups like limescale. Vinegar is better at cleaning rust. It's also cheaper, versatile and safer than CLR.

What not to use with CLR?

Never mix Calcium, Lime and Rust Remover with other household cleaners or bleach. Always read the manufacturer's directions of the item you will be cleaning to make sure that this product is compatible.

Can you use CLR more than once?

If the stain does not disappear, use CLR full strength and then wipe and rinse promptly with cold, clean water. Never mix CLR with other household cleaners or bleach and never reuse the bottle.

Do you use hot or cold water with CLR?

Apply product directly to stain. Dilution and dwell time may vary by soil load. Rinse promptly with cold water. Repeat application as necessary.

How do you get rid of years of calcium buildup?

A way to safely and effectively clean these surfaces is to grab mild soap, sponges, towels, white vinegar, and baking soda. In a bowl, combine hot water with a couple of drops of mild soap, and using a sponge or rag, clean the surface. First, scrub as much scum off as possible and then wipe it dry with a towel.

Will CLR remove efflorescence?

We were told a diluted CLR solution would work. We tried this and it was a lot of work to scrub the surface clean of the residue and you have to be sure to rinse immediately because technically CLR is not for painted surfaces.

What dissolves calcium build up in drains?

Boil a pot of water. Pour a ½ cup of vinegar and a ½ cup of baking soda into the drain. Put cleaning rag over the top of the drain to cover it. Wait 5 minutes or so while the mixture eats away at the buildup.

What is the strongest calcium remover?

Final Verdict. The best overall hard water stain remover is CLR Brilliant Bath Foaming Action Cleaner.

What are the side effects of CLR?

Inhalation: Ingestion: May cause irritation with discomfort or rash, prolonged skin contact may cause ulceration Excessive inhalation may cause irritation of the respiratory passages May cause irritation of the gastrointestinal tract with abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea and corrosion of the mucous ...

Does CLR work better than lime away?

CLR, on the other hand, is more of an all-rounder. It's just as good at cleaning limescale and hard water stains too, but it's a lot more effective at getting rid of rust than Lime Away thanks to the phosphoric acid.

Do you need gloves with CLR?

Before you get started, always use gloves and check if CLR is suitable to be applied on the material you are trying to clean. Test the CLR on an inconspicuous spot first before applying to entire surface.

What to use when CLR doesn't work?

8 CLR Alternatives To Remove Rust And Limescale
  1. #2 Lemon Juice. Lemon juice is another natural cleaner that does an awesome job, especially on limescale. ...
  2. #3 Baking Soda. ...
  3. #4 Hydrogen Peroxide. ...
  4. #5 Coca-Cola. ...
  5. #6 Muriatic Acid.

Does CLR remove calcium buildup?

CLR not only removes Calcium, Limescale and Rust. The versatile solution can also effectively remove Mineral Deposits, Salt, Oxidation, Algae, Fibreglass/Gel Coat Yellowing and Soap Scum.

Which is better, CLR or Zep?

Customers say the Zep Calcium, Lime, and Rust Stain Remover is an effective and cost-efficient alternative to more expensive brands like CLR. Many users appreciate its ability to tackle tough stains, particularly in toilets and on various surfaces affected by hard water.

Can you pour used CLR down the drain?

Yes, CLR is safe if you have a septic system in your home. By the time the product reaches the septic system, it's neutralized with water so there is no danger in using CLR.

Will CLR damage concrete?

DO NOT USE ON ARTIFICIALLY COLOURE CONCRETE, RENDERED OR AGGREGATE SURFACES. Before you get started, always use gloves and check if CLR is suitable to be applied on the material you are trying to clean. Test the CLR on an inconspicuous spot first before applying to entire surface.

What dissolves rust the fastest?

6 Fastest Ways to Remove Rust from Metal
  • Fiber Wheels.
  • Rubber Polishing Abrasive.
  • Aluminum Foil Or Steel Brush Wheel.
  • Lemon Juice Or Vinegar With Salt.
  • Sodium Bisulfate (Mixed with water)
  • A Bath with Vinegar.

How long does it take vinegar to remove calcium buildup?

Let the acid of the vinegar do its magic for 30 minutes; the vinegar will dissolve the calcium. Then flush.

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