Keeping the toilet clean can be a constant annoyance as it is very easy to become dirty if limescale is allowed to build up on the porcelain.
Limescale is a hard chalk-like substance that is made up of minerals in evaporated water, and If left alone limescale can become a hotspot for bacteria to thrive. Over time limescale can begin to accumulate in pipes and make it more likely for the toilet to become clogged but it can be incredibly difficult to clean as it clings to surfaces.
Bleach may seem like the obvious solution, but it is a cleaning disinfectant that cannot break down limescale and can have a chemical reaction with materials on toilets, which can cause permanent yellow stains.
Instead, the experts at Purdy and Figg have shared that the better way to clean toilet limescale is to throw away any chemical products and instead opt for a more natural solution.
They said: “Ditch the harsh chemicals from a bottle, forget the toilet gels, bombs and sprays that leave your eyes watering and head for our favourite cleaning ingredient. Citric acid.
“Often hailed as one of the most diverse natural cleaning agents, citric acid is the perfect addition for cleaning your toilet. Its anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, de-greasing and whitening power has been used by thousands of people across the globe.”
The best way to get rid of limescale is by using a natural acidic substance such as citric acid, which can remove stains while also being gentle on the toilet surface so it does not damage it.
Citric acid is naturally found in fruits such as lemons and will chemically react to the minerals found in limescale to quickly dissolve it.
Not only is citric acid highly effective but it is also cheap as a concentrated crystalised version of this cleaning wonder can be found in most supermarkets, such as ASDA which costs £1.75.
How to use citric acid to get rid of toilet stains
To begin, boil the kettle, put on a pair of gloves and get a large bucket or container.
Pour a bucket of boiling hot water down the toilet as the heat will help loosen up the limescale sitting at the bottom of the toilet bowl.
Once the water has cooled down slightly, pour a generous amount of citric acid down the toilet as well.
Leave the solution to sit without flushing the toilet for at least 10 minutes, but longer if the limescale is particularly stubborn.
After the time is up, grab a toilet brush and gently scrub the bottom of the toilet and most of the limescale should be dissolved and be easy to wipe away.
If there is still any limescale then pour the hot water and citric acid solution down the toilet again and leave it to sit for longer this time.
Your toilet should be sparkling clean and stain-free without having to use bleach or any other chemical solution.
The experts said: “As a natural cleaning agent, [citric acid] doesn’t come with superhero powers but it’s certainly better than the option that leaves waterways covered in chemicals.”
