Remove limescale from taps with natural 19p kitchen item that's not white vinegar

By Chanelle Georgina, Senior Reporter

Limescale can be an ongoing issue in homes (Image: Getty)

Limescale is made up of calcium and magnesium deposits that can turn any clean bathroom into a hotspot for chalky deposits around taps and shower heads.

Removing limescale is a recurring chore as hard water – full of calcium and magnesium – isn't going to be eradicated in the UK.

In fact, all British households are guaranteed to come across limescale, but the issue can be fixed with a simple 19p ingredient that you most likely already have in the kitchen.

Charlotte Hughes, a cleaning expert at Plumbworld, explained the benefits of using a lemon, which can cost as little as 19p in Aldi, 30p in Asda or 30p in Tesco.

"Lemon juice is rich in citric acid, which naturally breaks down limescale without damaging your taps or fixtures," said Charlotte.

One lemon can remove limescale (Image: Getty)

"It’s a quick, effective solution that not only clears the deposits but also leaves your taps looking refreshed and shiny.”

Citric acid reacts with the calcium carbonate in limescale causing the chalky deposit to dissolve into a soluble film that is easy to rinse away.

How to use lemon to remove limescale

1. Create the solution

Mix 75 percent lemon juice with 25 percent water in a small bowl or spray bottle.

2. Apply the solution

Soak a soft sponge or cloth with the mixture and gently wipe it over the limescale-affected areas, ensuring full coverage.

A clean bathroom faucet looks much better than one coated in limescale (Image: Getty)

3. Let it sit

Allow the solution to rest on the surface for about two minutes. This gives the citric acid time to break down the limescale.

4. Rinse thoroughly

Use warm water to rinse the area, washing away the dissolved limescale.

5. Dry for a sparkling finish

Wipe the area dry with a microfibre cloth. This step adds shine and prevents new limescale from forming by removing excess moisture.

For more stubborn deposits of limescale, the process may need to be repeated; as for watermarks, these can be repelled by dabbing olive oil on a microfibre cloth onto taps.