Remove Snake & Auger Metal Scratches from a Toilet Bowl

Scratches in a toilet bowl are an unsightly nuisance that can happen when using a plumbing snake or auger to clear a clogged toilet. The metal cable can scrape the porcelain surface, leaving cringe-inducing marks.

But don’t worry – you can restore your toilet to its former glory by following some simple steps. When I worked in maintenance at a property that had more than 250 toilets, I faced this very problem dozens of times over the span of 10 years.

One of the best solutions for removing these scratches is using Bar Keepers Friend, a versatile cleaning product that can effectively handle this task. In this article, we’ll explain how these scratches occur and give you a step-by-step guide for using Bar Keepers Friend to remove them.

🠟🠟🠟 If you want a quick video that shows the step-by-step process, you can check out the one I made below. 🠟🠟🠟

Why do toilet bowls get scratched by snakes or augers?

Toilet clogs are common and can be caused by a buildup of waste, foreign objects, or excessive toilet paper. When faced with a stubborn clog, many people turn to a plumbing snake or auger. These tools consist of a long, flexible metal cable that is inserted into the toilet bowl and twisted to break up the clog. Unfortunately, during this process, the metal cable can scrape against the porcelain, causing scratches.

Removing scratches with Bar Keepers Friend

Bar Keepers Friend is a fantastic product to have on hand when faced with unsightly scratches in your toilet bowl. The oxalic acid in the product effectively removes stains, rust, and mineral deposits, making it the perfect solution for removing scratches left by a plumbing snake or auger. It feels like baking soda on the hands when dry, and when it gets wet it reminds me of the way Silly Putty would make my fingers feel when I was a kid. It’s got a smell that makes me think of a hot cardboard pizza box that’s been in the oven — but without the pizza. I’m not sure if it’s harmful to the skin, so I recommend using gloves just to be safe!

Here’s how to use Bar Keepers Friend to remove these scratches:

1. Remove the water: Before you begin, you’ll need to remove the water from your toilet bowl. Turn off the water supply to the toilet and flush it to empty the bowl. If needed, use a plunger to push any remaining water down the drain (you’ll be left with an inch or so with the plunger) and soak up the remaining water with a disposable sponge, wet/dry vacuum, or towel.
2. Apply Bar Keepers Friend: Put on gloves to protect your hands, and dampen the scratched area with water. Liberally sprinkle Bar Keepers Friend powder or apply the liquid form directly onto the scratches.
3. Let it sit: Allow the product to sit on the scratches for 1-3 minutes, giving the oxalic acid time to work its magic.
4. Scrub gently: Use a soft cloth, sponge, or non-abrasive scrubber to gently rub the Bar Keepers Friend into the scratches using a circular motion. I like to use paper towel — just be sure not to flush it afterward! Be sure to avoid applying excessive pressure with whatever you use, as this can further damage the porcelain.
5. Rinse and repeat (if needed): Thoroughly rinse the area with water to remove the Bar Keepers Friend and assess the scratches. If they are still visible, repeat the process until they are no longer noticeable. I’ve never needed to reapply, as I’ve always gotten my scratches out in a single application.
6. Restore the water supply: Once the scratches are gone, turn the water supply back on and flush the toilet to ensure everything is functioning properly and looks good again.

Why choose Bar Keepers Friend to clean toilet scratches?

Bar Keepers Friend is a must-have cleaning product for tackling tough stains and scratches on various surfaces, including porcelain toilet bowls.

Not only is it affordable, but it’s also incredibly effective, thanks to its oxalic acid content. You’ll find that you can use this powder on lots of smooth surfaces that hold onto hard-to-release stains. I’ve removed red wine stains from smooth surfaces like end tables, desks, and counter tops with it when I did hotel maintenance for many years.

You can find Bar Keepers Friend at most grocery stores or order it here if you’d like (Amazon) for a hassle-free shopping experience.

Final Takeaways

Scratches caused by a plumbing snake or auger are an unfortunate side effect of clearing clogs in your toilet. However, with the help of Bar Keepers Friend, you can easily remove these scratches and restore your toilet bowl to its original condition. Just follow the steps outlined above, and your toilet will be looking as good as new in no time.

Remember that prevention is always better than cure. To minimize the risk of scratches in the future, consider using a plumbing snake or auger with a rubber or plastic coating to protect the porcelain. Additionally, be gentle when using these tools and avoid applying excessive force. By taking these precautions, you can effectively deal with clogs while keeping your toilet bowl scratch-free.

Don’t let scratches from a plumbing snake or auger ruin the appearance of your toilet bowl. Use Bar Keepers Friend to effectively remove these blemishes and restore your porcelain to a pristine condition. With this powerful cleaning product, your toilet will be looking clean and scratch-free in no time.