Run an Eraser on the Faucet: the Smart Method to a Common Concern

Faucets are one of the most used parts of our home, but often, they are neglected when it comes to maintenance. Over time, faucets can develop hard water stains, limescale and dirt that make your sink or basin look dull and dirty. Fortunately, there is a simple and inexpensive trick to restore the shine to your faucets without the need for harsh chemicals or specialist equipment. All you need is a regular eraser.

Why an eraser?

Erasers are designed to erase pencil lines, but they have a soft, slightly abrasive texture that can be very effective in removing limescale, water spots and dirt on faucets without scratching or damaging the surface.

Here’s how to use an eraser to clean your faucets

Necessary material

• An eraser (preferably a white, uncolored eraser)
• A clean, dry cloth

Steps to follow

1. Start by lightly wetting the surface of the faucet with water. You can use a spray bottle of water or a damp cloth for this.
2. Take the eraser and gently rub the surface of the faucet, using circular or back-and-forth motions. Apply light pressure, but avoid rubbing too hard, especially if your faucet is chrome-plated metal, to avoid possible scratches.
3. Continue scrubbing with the eraser until the stains and deposits begin to disappear. You may need to be patient, especially with more stubborn stains.
4. Once you are satisfied with the result, rinse the tap thoroughly with clean water to remove any gum residue.
5. Use a clean, dry cloth to wipe the faucet until it shines.

Additional Tips

• For particularly dirty or difficult-to-clean areas, you can cut the eraser into smaller pieces to achieve a more precise scrubbing surface.
• If your faucet is brass or stainless steel, be sure to use a soft eraser and not scrub too hard to avoid scratches.
• If you have soap scum on your faucet, you can remove it by mixing a little baking soda with water to form a mildly abrasive paste. Apply this paste to the faucet, scrub gently with an eraser, then rinse and dry.
• To maintain the shine of your faucets, wipe them regularly after use to prevent deposits from building up.

Using this simple eraser method, you can restore the shine to your faucets in an eco-friendly, cost-effective way, and without harsh chemicals. It’s a clever tip to combat a common household problem and keep your faucets sparkling.