Why is iron a problem in my water?

Iron or rust in water can be found in five different forms. The two most common types are clear water iron and particle iron. These will cause staining in your tubs and sinks, in your laundry and even your hair. The other three types are iron bacteria, organic iron, and collodial iron. These will cause reddish stains and may have a sulfur (rotten egg) odor or have a tea colored appearance in the water.