I compared two limescale removers to see which is best (Image: Mia O’Hare)
Limescale can accumulate rapidly without warning, with bathrooms bearing the brunt of the problem. The tough, chalky deposit can settle on taps, shower heads and shower screens.It can also gather in concealed spaces such as water pipes and heating systems.
Beyond being an eyesore, it can lead to serious damage. Tackling limescale can prove challenging, as it’s frequently difficult to shift and takes considerable effort. Having spotted a severe build-up of limescale on my bathroom taps, I decided to trial two limescale removal products. Viakal markets itself as the “number one against limescale”, so I felt I needed to assess its effectiveness.
I opted to pit it against the Flash Deep Clean & Hygiene Anti-Bac Bathroom Cleaner, which promises to “remove up to 100% of bathroom grease and limescale.
Viakal results
I purchased Viakal Classic Limescale Remover Spray from Asda for £2.65, which comes in a convenient spray bottle. For consistency, I chose to apply one spray on each of my taps following their guidelines.
The Viakal bottle instructed to spray the product onto the limescale-affected surface and allow three minutes to work, which is the maximum recommended duration. The spray was simple to aim precisely onto the area.
Once the three minutes had passed, I rinsed the tap and used a dampened sponge to remove the solution and thoroughly scrub the limescale. I was surprised to discover substantial chunks of limescale still clinging to the tap despite the spray being left for the full recommended time.
While some limescale removed after scrubbing, other patches proved considerably more resistant. Removing these stubborn areas would have required a second application, though I chose not to in the interest of conducting a fair test between the two products.
Flash results
Flash’s cleaner was priced at £2.44 from Asda and came in a virtually identical bottle. Its instructions recommended leaving the solution on for five minutes rather than three.
The Flash spray didn’t appear to coat the tap as thoroughly as Viakal had managed. Once the time had passed, the instructions directed to wipe the surface and rinse it clean.
It came as quite a surprise to find that the majority of the limescale had lifted, and after working over it with a sponge, the tap looked considerably more presentable.
Verdict
Both products were straightforward and easy to use, delivering results within minutes. That said, the Flash product emerges as the clear winner, having shifted considerably more limescale than Viakal.
A single application of the Flash solution was enough to tackle the limescale without any need for a follow-up attempt, which is a definite plus point. It also edges ahead on price.
Flash’s product carries the added advantage of tackling not only limescale but also soap scum, while eliminating 99.9% of bacteria. Given its superior performance and slight cost saving, the choice of which product to reach for next time couldn’t be clearer.
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