Restore Shine: 3 Home Remedies for Stubborn Hard Water Stains on Buckets & Mugs

• Hard water stains, caused by calcium and magnesium, can make buckets and mugs look old and dirty.
• White vinegar is highly effective: soak stained items in water with 1-2 cups of vinegar for 3-4 hours or overnight, then scrub.
• Baking soda and lemon combination works well: sprinkle baking soda, add lemon juice, let fizz for 20-30 minutes, then scrub.
• For very stubborn stains, use vinegar first, then baking soda and scrub; warm water with detergent also helps loosen mineral layers.
• Prevent stains by emptying and drying items after use, and cleaning weekly with a mild vinegar solution.