How do I remove water spots on chrome and gold-toned faucets? I've tried several products, with no satisfactory results.
-- Margaret Elkins, St. Charles, Ill.
For chrome faucets: Mix together equal amounts of white household vinegar and water. Using a soft toothbrush dipped in the solution, scrub gently. Rinse well; dry.
To remove mineral deposits: Soak a facial tissue, paper towel, or several cotton balls in the solution, then wrap or place on the faucet for several minutes to dissolve the deposits. (This is an old trick of my mother's, and it still works great.) Rinse thoroughly and buff-dry with a soft cloth.
For gold-toned faucets: Mix a little baking soda with distilled water on a sponge and gently dab the water spots. Do not press hard or use a scraping tool or abrasive cleanser. Rinse, then wipe dry.
Prior to 1998, most manufacturers used an epoxy coating on gold-toned faucets, but now the fixtures have a heavier, acrylic finish -- which helps prevent tarnishing. Yet both types can be damaged if treated harshly.
To prevent spots from forming, always dry off the faucet after using.