How To Get Rid Of Limescale Naturally

Limescale is a hard, chalky build up. It happens when hard water, which has minerals like calcium and magnesium, evaporates or gets heated. Mostly, it's made of calcium carbonate. When hard water is heated or evaporated, the minerals in it settle out and stick to surfaces. This creates a tough, chalky layer. Limescale shows up as a white or yellowish-white coating. If the water has a lot of iron, it can also look reddish-brown.

Limescale is a common problem in many bathrooms. It creates a layer on our faucets, makes our shower glass cloudy, and causes our shiny sinks to lose their sparkle. Limescale can also build up in places other than the bathroom. It causes problems in our appliances as well creating hidden clogs in our dishwashers and leaving bits floating in our coffee and tea.

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The great thing is that you can easily get rid of limescale without needing strong chemicals. Just use the tips and tricks below to help prevent limescale from building up. 

Baking soda is another great household item for removing limescale. It fights acids, cleans deeply, and gives off a nice smell.

1. Kitchen and bathroom faucets

To clean gently but effectively fill a spray bottle with one cup of vinegar, one cup of water, and one tablespoon of any brand of dish liquid. Spray this over the taps, then use a toothbrush to scrub the taps softly. This method won’t scratch, but it will help remove limescale and white marks. For great results, rinse the tap with water afterward and dry it with a soft cloth.

Another option is to attach a plastic bag filled with vinegar to the faucet and let it soak. After that, you can scrub off the residue with a toothbrush. If there is limescale on the outside of the faucet or shower arm, it’s best to spray it with vinegar or wrap it with a rag soaked in vinegar.

2. Tea Kettle

Fill the kettle with equal amounts of water and vinegar. Boil the mixture, then turn off the heat. Let the kettle sit for 15 to 20 minutes. Finally, rinse it with clean water. Repeat this process as necessary to remove all limescale.

Alternatively, in a bowl, mix lemon juice and baking soda to create a paste. Make sure it's thick enough to spread easily but still smooth. Spread the paste directly on the limescale inside the kettle. Use a soft brush, sponge, or cloth for an even layer. Let the mixture sit on the limescale for about 15-20 minutes. This waiting time helps break down the mineral deposits. After the time is up, gently scrub the paste with a soft brush. This helps loosen the limescale. Finally, rinse the kettle well with clean water to remove all traces of paste and limescale.

Another way to clean is by using water and citric acid. You will need citric acid, water, a measuring cup, and a soft brush. First, pour one cup of water into your kettle. Next, measure out 1-2 tablespoons of citric acid powder and add it to the kettle. Stir gently to help the citric acid dissolve. Now, boil the kettle and let it sit for 15-20 minutes. After the kettle cools, use a soft brush to scrub the inside gently. Pour out the citric acid solution and rinse the kettle with water several times. It helps to boil the kettle with fresh water a few times to remove any leftover citric acid. Finally, use a soft cloth to wipe the kettle's interior.

3. Dishwasher

Take out all dishes and utensils from the dishwasher. Pour 1 cup of white vinegar into the bottom. Run the dishwasher on a hot water cycle to help break down the lime build up.

You can also stop lime deposits from building up in your dishwasher by adding half a cup of vinegar during the wash. Vinegar is great for both removing and preventing these deposits. White vinegar clears lime deposits and helps avoid white spots.

4. Shower head

Fill a glass bowl with white vinegar. Take off the shower head and put it in the bowl. Let it soak overnight. Rinse it with clear water. If the shower head can't be removed, fill a freezer bag halfway with vinegar. Place the shower head into the bag and use an elastic band to hold it in place.

Alternatively, soak the showerhead in a pan with vinegar, lemon juice, or citric acid. The acidic solution will break down the mineral build up. After a few minutes, check to see if you can easily wipe off the grime.

5. Glass shower doors

Boil one cup of white vinegar in a saucepan. Let the solution cool a bit. Next, soak pieces of kitchen roll in the warm vinegar. Place them all over your shower glass. Leave this on for about an hour. Spritz the kitchen roll with vinegar often to keep it wet. After that, take off the kitchen roll and gently scrub the glass with baking soda. Finally, rinse the glass with water for great results.

You can also use lemon juice. Lemon juice can be used like vinegar. You can heat lemon juice and use a paper towel to wipe the shower screen. This helps remove limescale. Lemons are acidic, similar to vinegar, so their juice can also tackle tough stains.

6. Toilet

Pour about 1 liter of undiluted white vinegar into the toilet bowl. Let it sit for 3-4 hours (so make sure you use the bathroom before you start cleaning!) Use extra vinegar to scrub the sides of the bowl, under the rim, and down into the water. You can use your regular toilet brush or try a Sonic Scrubber to get rid of scum under the rim (just remember, only use this brush for the toilet—don’t clean your kitchen with it later). Flush the toilet to wash away the vinegar and stains. Now you have a sparkling clean bowl!

Another alternative is baking soda. Sprinkle some baking soda in the bowl. Let it sit for about 20 minutes, then scrub with a brush. A quick flush, and your toilet will look brand new!

Another method is by using citric acid. Citric acid is a natural cleaner that can break down limescale. You can find it in powder form at organic food stores. Using it is simple: just add two tablespoons of citric acid to the toilet. Let it sit for about 20 minutes. Then, scrub with a brush and flush. It not only removes limescale but also leaves a nice fresh scent in the toilet.

7. Washing machine

For your washing machine, use a big cup of white vinegar or lemon juice instead of your regular detergent. Run the machine empty on a normal wash cycle.

What tips do you have to get rid of limescale naturally?