How to Repair Porcelain Toilet Scratches: A Step-by-Step Guide

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How to Fix Porcelain Toilet Scratches

Porcelain toilets are a common fixture in homes, but they can be easily scratched. Whether it’s from a stray piece of jewelry, a hard object, or even just everyday wear and tear, scratches on a porcelain toilet can be unsightly and even make the toilet less sanitary. Fortunately, there are a few simple ways to fix porcelain toilet scratches.

In this article, we’ll discuss the different causes of porcelain toilet scratches, how to identify the type of scratch you have, and the best methods for repairing each type of scratch. We’ll also provide tips on how to prevent future scratches from occurring.

So if you’re looking to restore your porcelain toilet to its former glory, read on for all the information you need!

Step Tools Instructions
1. Gather your supplies.
  • Porcelain repair kit
  • Fine sandpaper
  • Water
  • Rag
  1. Read the instructions on the repair kit.
  2. Sand the scratch with the fine sandpaper until it is smooth.
  3. Apply the repair kit according to the instructions.
  4. Allow the repair kit to dry completely.
2. Apply the primer.
  • Primer
  1. Apply a coat of primer to the scratch.
  2. Allow the primer to dry completely.
3. Apply the paint.
  • Matching paint
  1. Apply a coat of paint to the scratch.
  2. Allow the paint to dry completely.
4. Apply the sealant.
  • Sealant
  1. Apply a coat of sealant to the scratch.
  2. Allow the sealant to dry completely.

Identifying the Scratches

Porcelain toilets are durable, but they can still be scratched. If you notice a scratch on your toilet, it’s important to identify the type of scratch you’re dealing with before you can decide how to fix it.

What to look for

When inspecting your toilet for scratches, you’ll want to look for the following:

  • The depth of the scratch. Minor scratches will only be superficial, while deep scratches will go through the porcelain.
  • The width of the scratch. Narrow scratches are easier to fix than wide ones.
  • The location of the scratch. Scratches on the visible parts of the toilet are more noticeable than those on the hidden parts.

How to distinguish between surface scratches and cracks

It’s important to be able to distinguish between surface scratches and cracks, as the two require different repair methods.

  • Surface scratches are superficial and will not go through the porcelain. They can be identified by their light color and smooth texture.
  • Cracks are deeper than surface scratches and will go through the porcelain. They can be identified by their dark color and rough texture.

When to call a professional

If you’re not sure how to fix a scratch on your toilet, it’s best to call a professional. A plumber or a handyman will be able to assess the damage and recommend the best course of action.

Choosing the Right Repair Method

Once you’ve identified the type of scratch you’re dealing with, you can choose the best repair method.

Options for minor scratches

Minor scratches can be repaired with a variety of household products, including:

  • Toothpaste. Toothpaste can help to fill in minor scratches and restore the shine to your toilet. Apply a small amount of toothpaste to the scratch and rub it in with a soft cloth. Rinse the toilet with warm water and dry it with a towel.
  • White vinegar. White vinegar can also be used to remove minor scratches from a toilet. Pour a cup of white vinegar into a spray bottle and spritz it on the scratch. Let the vinegar sit for a few minutes, then rinse the toilet with warm water and dry it with a towel.
  • Melamine foam. Melamine foam is a type of cleaning sponge that can be used to remove minor scratches from a toilet. Simply dampen the sponge with water and rub it over the scratch. Rinse the toilet with warm water and dry it with a towel.

Options for deep scratches

Deep scratches will require a more involved repair process. The following steps will show you how to repair a deep scratch on a toilet:

1. Prepare the toilet. Remove the toilet seat and flush the toilet to remove any water. Apply painter’s tape around the outside of the toilet bowl to protect the surrounding area.
2. Apply the epoxy putty. Use a putty knife to apply a thin layer of epoxy putty to the scratch. Be sure to work the putty into the scratch so that it fills it completely.
3. Smooth the putty. Use a damp cloth to smooth the surface of the putty. Be careful not to press too hard, as this could cause the putty to crack.
4. Allow the putty to dry. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for drying time.
5. Remove the painter’s tape. Once the putty is dry, remove the painter’s tape.
6. Buff the toilet. Use a soft cloth to buff the toilet until it shines.

How to prepare the toilet for repair

Before you can repair a scratch on your toilet, you’ll need to prepare the toilet for the repair process. This involves removing the toilet seat and flushing the toilet to remove any water. You’ll also need to apply painter’s tape around the outside of the toilet bowl to protect the surrounding area.

To remove the toilet seat, locate the two bolts that secure the seat to the toilet bowl. Use a wrench to loosen the bolts and remove the seat. Once the seat is removed, flush the toilet to remove any water.

Next, apply painter’s tape around the outside of the toilet bowl. This will help to protect the surrounding area from the epoxy putty that you’ll be using to repair the scratch.

Now you’re ready to start the repair process.

Porcelain toilets are durable, but they can still be scratched. If you notice a scratch on your toilet, it’s important to identify the type of scratch you’re dealing with and choose the right repair method. By following these steps, you can easily repair minor scratches and restore the shine to your toilet.

Applying the Repair

Once you have chosen the best method for repairing your toilet scratch, you can begin the repair process. Each method is slightly different, so be sure to follow the steps carefully.

Step-by-step instructions for each method

Method 1: Applying a Porcelain Touch-Up Kit

1. Prepare the area. First, you will need to clean the scratch to remove any dirt or debris. Use a soft cloth and a mild detergent to wipe down the area. Be sure to dry the area completely before moving on to the next step.
2. Apply the touch-up kit. Next, you will need to apply the touch-up kit to the scratch. Most kits come with a small applicator brush, which you can use to apply the product directly to the scratch. Be sure to apply a thin layer of the product, and allow it to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
3. Buff the area. Once the touch-up kit has dried, you will need to buff the area to blend the repair into the surrounding surface. You can use a soft cloth or a buffing pad to do this. Be sure to buff in a circular motion until the repair is smooth and even.

Method 2: Applying a Porcelain Epoxy Putty

1. Prepare the area. First, you will need to clean the scratch to remove any dirt or debris. Use a soft cloth and a mild detergent to wipe down the area. Be sure to dry the area completely before moving on to the next step.
2. Mix the epoxy putty. Next, you will need to mix the epoxy putty according to the package directions. Most kits come with two parts, which you will need to combine in equal parts. Be sure to mix the putty thoroughly until it is a uniform color.
3. Apply the epoxy putty. Once the epoxy putty has been mixed, you will need to apply it to the scratch. You can use a small spatula or putty knife to apply the putty. Be sure to apply a thin layer of the putty, and allow it to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
4. Sand the area. Once the epoxy putty has dried, you will need to sand the area to smooth it out. You can use a fine-grit sandpaper to do this. Be sure to sand in a circular motion until the repair is smooth and even.
5. Apply a sealant. Once the area has been sanded, you will need to apply a sealant to protect the repair. You can use a clear sealant or a sealant that matches the color of your toilet. Be sure to apply the sealant according to the package directions.

Method 3: Applying a Porcelain Bonding Agent

1. Prepare the area. First, you will need to clean the scratch to remove any dirt or debris. Use a soft cloth and a mild detergent to wipe down the area. Be sure to dry the area completely before moving on to the next step.
2. Apply the bonding agent. Next, you will need to apply the bonding agent to the scratch. You can use a small brush or applicator to apply the product. Be sure to apply a thin layer of the product, and allow it to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
3. Apply a filler. Once the bonding agent has dried, you will need to apply a filler to the scratch. You can use a porcelain filler or a clear filler. Be sure to apply a thin layer of the filler, and allow it to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
4. Sand the area. Once the filler has dried, you will need to sand the area to smooth it out. You can use a fine-grit sandpaper to do this. Be sure to sand in a circular motion until the repair is smooth and even.
5. Apply a sealant. Once the area has been sanded, you will need to apply a sealant to protect the repair. You can use a clear sealant or a sealant that matches the color of your toilet. Be sure to apply the sealant according to the package directions.

Tips for getting a professional finish

When applying the repair, be sure to work in a well-lit area. This will help you to see the scratch clearly and make sure that the repair is applied evenly.

Also, be sure to take your time when applying the repair. Rushing the process can lead to mistakes, which can make the repair look unprofessional.

Finally, be sure to follow the instructions on the product label carefully. This will help you to get the best possible results.

Preventing Future Scratches

Once you have

How do I fix a porcelain toilet scratch?

There are a few different ways to fix a porcelain toilet scratch. The best way for you will depend on the severity of the scratch.

  • For minor scratches, you can use a toothpaste and baking soda paste. To do this, mix equal parts toothpaste and baking soda into a paste. Apply the paste to the scratch and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. Then, use a soft cloth to buff the paste away.
  • For deeper scratches, you can use a porcelain repair kit. These kits typically include a special resin that is applied to the scratch and then cured with a heat gun.
  • If the scratch is too deep, you may need to have the toilet professionally refinished. This is a more expensive option, but it will give you the best results.

What are the causes of porcelain toilet scratches?

There are a few different things that can cause porcelain toilet scratches. The most common cause is hard water. Hard water contains minerals that can build up on the surface of the toilet and cause scratches when you flush. Other causes of porcelain toilet scratches include:

  • Accidents – Toilets can be scratched if they are dropped or knocked over.
  • Chemicals – Some chemicals, such as bleach and drain cleaners, can damage the surface of a porcelain toilet.
  • Rubbing – Rubbing a toilet with a harsh abrasive can cause scratches.

How can I prevent porcelain toilet scratches?

There are a few things you can do to prevent porcelain toilet scratches:

  • Use a soft cloth or brush to clean the toilet. Avoid using harsh abrasives, such as scouring pads or steel wool.
  • Flush the toilet regularly to prevent hard water buildup.
  • Be careful not to drop or knock over the toilet.
  • Keep chemicals away from the toilet.

What should I do if I can’t fix the scratch myself?

If you can’t fix the scratch yourself, you may need to have the toilet professionally refinished. This is a more expensive option, but it will give you the best results.

Here are some tips for choosing a reputable toilet refinishing company:

  • Get at least 3 quotes from different companies.
  • Check the company’s online reviews.
  • Ask the company about their warranty and repair policy.
  • Make sure the company is licensed and insured.

Porcelain toilets are a common fixture in homes and businesses, but they can be easily scratched. Fortunately, there are a few simple steps you can take to fix porcelain toilet scratches.

First, you will need to determine the severity of the scratch. If the scratch is superficial, you can simply use a toothpaste and toothbrush to buff it out. If the scratch is deeper, you will need to use a special porcelain repair kit.

Once you have repaired the scratch, you will need to protect it from future damage. You can do this by applying a sealant or by using a toilet seat protector.

By following these simple steps, you can easily fix porcelain toilet scratches and keep your toilet looking its best.

Key Takeaways

  • Porcelain toilet scratches can be easily fixed using a toothpaste and toothbrush or a special porcelain repair kit.
  • To protect your toilet from future damage, apply a sealant or use a toilet seat protector.
  • By following these simple steps, you can keep your toilet looking its best for years to come.

Author Profile

Liana Farrell
Liana Farrell
Liana Farrell is the owner of toiletty.com. She is a mom of two and is very passionate about home improvement.

Liana has ten years of home improvement experience, and in her own words, she said: “I love improving the home, and I’m very passionate about keeping the home in the best possible condition. I love it!”

Liana Farrell balances beauty and functionality when she goes about her home improvement jobs.