Toilet limescale is a problem that plagues many households and it can be costly if left untreated.
Not only does limescale leave unsightly stains which often appear around the toilet bowl and under the rim, a buildup in the rim jets can restrict water flow and ultimately reduce the flushing power. As such, it means having to rely on multiple flushes and over time it can increase the risk of clogs, meaning having to pay out for costly repairs or replacements. But regular cleaning can help avoid this problem and you don’t have to rely on expensive chemical-based products to rid your loo of limescale, as one cheap liquid ingredient can do the trick.
According to cleaning experts, a bottle of Coca-Cola is all you need to banish limescale from your toilet. You can pick up a 2L bottle at Asda for just 1.48 or just 70p if you go off brand, so it’s a good home remedy that won’t stretch the purse strings too far.
Coca-Cola is mildly acidic as it contains phosphoric acid, citric acid and tartaric acid, all of which can dissolve mineral deposits. When these acids react with limescale, which is primarily composed of calcium carbonate, it breaks them down and makes them easier to remove.
While not quite as powerful as dedicated descales, it’s a cheap and effective home remedy for cleaning your toilet.
Cleaning experts at HG International said: “Cola’s acidity makes it surprisingly effective at removing limescale in toilet pans. Simply pour a generous amount of cola into the toilet and leave it overnight. Flush the next day and watch as limescale stains disappear.”
It is generally recommended that a bottle of coke is left to sit in your toilet overnight to allow the acid to work, especially if you’re trying to remove really stubborn stains. If you find there are still some limescale deposits left, you can try combining coke with baking powder to increase its effectiveness.
It’s also recommended that you rinse and clean your toilet thoroughly afterwards as coke has a high sugar content so it’s important to remove any sticky residue.
Experts at Vileroy & Boch add: “Coca Cola – this fizzy drink contains phosphoric acid which also removes limescale and urine scale. Simply pour the contents of a one-litre bottle into the toilet bowl and leave it to work for a few hours to dissolve deposits. To increase the effectiveness, combine Coca Cola with baking powder and apply it directly to the affected areas.
“Baking powder mainly consists of sodium bicarbonate (natron), a separating agent and an acidifier such as tartaric acid. Contact with water triggers a chemical reaction between the natron and the acid during which carbon dioxide is released. Simply sprinkle a little powder over the affected areas and leave it to work.”