How to Repair Scratches in Your Toilet Bowl

Scratches in your toilet bowl can make even a clean bathroom look dirty. Left unchecked, they can get even worse by trapping stains or hard water buildup. No matter how much you scrub, they just won’t get clean.

Luckily, most toilet bowl scratches are easy to fix with a few tools you probably already have at home. Keep reading to learn how to repair and remove scratches from a porcelain toilet, when to call a professional, and how to prevent future damage.

Can a Scratched Toilet Bowl Be Repaired?

Yes, in most cases, you can repair a scratched toilet bowl, especially if the damage is only cosmetic. Light scratches and scuff marks from brushes or cleaning tools are common and just take a little elbow grease to remove.

However, deep cracks that penetrate the porcelain may be tougher to tackle. These deep gouges or cracks may be signs that the structure is compromised. You might require professional repair or even a full toilet replacement.

Understanding Different Types of Scratches

Before reaching for the pumice stone, it’s important to know what you’re dealing with. Not all marks are true scratches.

• Black scratches in the toilet bowl are often left by metal objects like toilet brushes or dropped tools. Typically, they’re not actually scratches, but small deposits of metal left behind.
• Scuff marks from shoes or cleaning tools may look like scratches but can usually be wiped away with a little effort.
• True scratches feel rough to the touch and are embedded in the porcelain. If you try wiping them off, it won’t work.

Learn more about the right way to clean your toilet to avoid creating or worsening scratches.

How to Remove Scratches from a Toilet Bowl

If you’re ready to remove scratches from your porcelain toilet without damaging the finish, try these simple DIY methods.

Baking Soda and Water Paste

Baking soda is the gentlest way to fix toilet bowl scratches.

1. Mix baking soda and water into a thick paste.
2. Apply it directly to the scratched area.
3. Rub gently with a soft cloth or sponge in a circular motion.
4. Rinse thoroughly.

Pumice Stone (Toilet-Safe Only)

If that doesn’t work, progress to a pumice stone.

1. Wet both the pumice stone and the toilet bowl surface.
2. Gently rub the stone on the scratch.
3. Use light pressure to avoid damaging the porcelain.
4. Rinse and repeat as needed.

Porcelain Repair Kit

The final way to conduct toilet bowl scratch repair is with a porcelain repair kit. These are available at most hardware stores. Most work by using a two-part epoxy to fill in chips and deeper scratches.

Always follow the kit’s instructions carefully, and let it cure fully before using the toilet again. While you’re waiting, this might be a good time to address other toilet repairs you’ve been putting off.

How to Remove Black Scratches from a Porcelain Toilet

Black scratches in a toilet bowl are usually cosmetic and easy to clean. Try one of the following:

• Use a magic eraser to gently scrub the mark.
• Apply a non-abrasive bathroom cleaner and let it sit before wiping.
• Avoid bleach-based products, which can etch the porcelain.

If the mark disappears with scrubbing, it wasn’t a scratch — just a transfer stain from metal or rubber.

Preventing Future Scratches in Your Toilet Bowl

Once you’ve cleaned up the damage, protect your toilet from future scuffs with these tips:

• Use non-metal, soft-bristle brushes for regular cleaning.
• Avoid dropping tools or hard objects in the bowl.
• Skip abrasive cleaners that can wear down the finish.
• Place a soft liner in your toilet tank if you use drop-in tablets.

If your toilet’s surface is already worn down or stained, it may be time to consider replacing it altogether. Porcelain doesn’t last forever, and when it starts to break down, you can experience troublesome leaks. Learn more about the types of toilets to consider for an upgrade.

When to Call a Professional for Toilet Repairs

DIY scratch repair works well for surface marks, but it’s not a fix-all. You should call a professional if you notice deep cracks or leaks around the base or if the scratches reappear quickly after cleaning. A licensed plumber can inspect your toilet, recommend repair options, or help you replace it if needed.

When you’re dealing with deeper damage, Roto-Rooter’s plumbing professionals are just a call away. Schedule your service today and restore your toilet’s appearance the right way!