Pumice is a porous igneous rock formed from volcanic eruptions. The sharp, fine grains of pumice are used as an abrasive for cleaning, woodworking and exfoliating. Pumice is a key ingredient in many concrete products. And sticks of pumice, available at most hardware stores, can be used for a plethora of home improvement projects:

• Remove hard water rings from toilets. First, submerge part of the pumice stick. Allow the stick to absorb enough water to soften its abrasiveness. Rub the softened portion of the stick on the calcium rings inside the toilet bowl. The rings should disappear. Flush the toilet and rinse the stick under running water. Allow it to dry before storing it away for your next project.

• Remove rust and hard water from porcelain tubs and sinks. Because pumice sticks can scratch fiberglass, enamel and other surfaces, soak the stick in water before you start cleaning and then test a small spot on the tub or sink. If the stick does not scratch the surface, lightly scrub the porcelain until all stain residue has disappeared. Rinse away the pumice grit with clean water.

• Remove black carbon buildup and baked-on grease from ovens and stove tops. Test the area first with a water-soaked pumice stick to make sure the stick will not scratch the surface. Proceed to scrub away the baked-on stains until the oven or stove is bright and shiny.

• Soak a pumice stick in water or oil and use it to rub away surface rust on workshop tools and garden equipment. Wipe the newly cleaned surface with a light lubricating oil or motor oil to prevent rust from returning.

• Remove dried-on paint from tile, masonry and concrete. Soak the pumice stick in water thoroughly and rub the paint until it disappears.

• Clean baked-on grease and carbon buildup from grills and cooking grates. Soak the pumice stick in water and scrub thoroughly. Keep a bucket of warm water and a cloth handy to wipe away residue throughout the cleaning process.

• Clean lime and algae deposits from swimming pools and bird baths. Submerge the pumice stick. Allow the stick to absorb some water, then scrub away the underwater stains.

Avoid using the pumice stick on polished surfaces, glass or plastic. Always wear gloves to protect your hands.

— Have a home improvement question for the Fix-It Chick? Email it to Linda Cottin at features@ljworld.com.