Taps are prone to limescale due to the presence of minerals like calcium and magnesium in hard water.
When the water evaporates, the minerals are left behind, which is what causes visible limescale deposits.
Taps that are often used for hot water will build up with limescale more quickly as hot water evaporates faster.
Removing limescale from taps can be difficult, as using the wrong products can damage the taps’ material.
With this in mind, cleaning expert Manish Jain, founder of professional cleaning services Ministry of Cleaning, has shared how to remove limescale from taps using an unusual method involving a common fridge item.
He told Express.co.uk: “Limescale is not only unsightly but difficult to clean and often requires a whole lot of time as well as expensive cleaning products.
“That is until now as few realise there are some household ingredients that make removing limescale from certain appliances and items quick and easy.”
Mr Jain recommended using ketchup as an “alternative” to harsh, expensive chemical solutions. The acid in ketchup can break down the grime on the taps.
He explained: “Simply dip a clean cloth into the sauce and rub it into your taps. The trick is to let the ketchup sit for a few minutes before wiping it off so the acid in it can break down any grime. But after this time, your taps will look new.”
Alternatively, you can use two methods that are already quite well-known – lemon juice and baking soda.
Lemons contain citric acid, which can break down mineral deposits. The cleaning expert suggests simply cutting a lemon in half and rubbing it directly on the taps.
However, if the limescale is particularly stubborn, you can dip the lemon in baking soda and scrub the affected area.
Mr Jain added: “Baking soda lifts grime without scratching. Just be sure to let the powder sit on the tap for up to five minutes before rinsing with a clean cloth.”
It’s also worth noting that acidic solutions like lemon juice and vinegar should not be left on brass or gold-plated taps for too long, as they can cause discolouration.