Cleaning and Stain Removal - heavy Calcium deposits on bath tub

I have this nasty calcium deposit build up near the drain of my bathtub at this apartment. The only thing that removes the build up is a lot of work using pumice stones to slowly remove the buildup.

Is there any chemical of any kind that will actually help chemically break down calcium?

Check at your local home improvement store. There is a wide variety of calcum or heavy mineral deposit removers. Make sure your read the label as some are not reccomended for certain type of materials. For example: porecelin can be damaged by acidic type cleaners. I would use the agent as directed and give it time to work. Apply it and let it sit for 10-15 mins. I would stop the drain up and apply..let it dwell then work with it that way. Flush with plenty of water. Depending on your levels of minerals in your water. You many want to consider a water softener or treatment system. As this problem will continue to return..it may also effect clothes, drinking water etc

GL

Well I live in an apartment, so temporary fix is the only thing happening currently unfortunately.

Acidic mixtures damage porcelain, so most cleaners must be basic then?

Most cleaners now a days. Unless they are being used in a problem area or type specific application are a neutral cleaner. You should be able to find a cleaner that would be safe for your application. Just read the backing of the agent and test in a small area first.

There are a variety of calcium, lime, and rust removers available at home centers and hardwares. The trick is to give them time to dissolve mineral deposits. Repeat applications may be necessary. Repair of leaky faucets and shower heads to prevent drips that leave mineral deposits is a preventive measure as is wiping tub dry after using.

Household vinegar is a mild form of acetic acid, and should help with the mineral deposit removal, and not damage the porcelin. As stated previously, give it time to work.

Don't laugh...Tang has citric acid, and you can use it as a scouring powder on the calcium deposits. Usually what I do is wet down the front wall of the tub (where the deposits collect), then sprinkle some Tang down the sides of the tub so that some of it clings. Use a sponge to make a paste if you need to. Leave it on for a few minutes, then use a nylon scrubber. It may not get it all off, but it does help. And no toxic smells.

But I doubt anyone will want to drink Tang again after reading this. :eek:

Yes, vinegar is good for dissolving mineral deposits. Lay paper towels over affected area and saturate with vinegar. Keep towel wet with vinegar. Patience and repeat applications will be necessary.