How to remove hard water marks: the best ways

Hard water coming out of our taps can be a real problem. Not only does it leave unsightly stains and scale, but it can also damage plumbing and appliances connected to the water supply, such as washing machines and dishwashers.

Fortunately, it is possible to combat the problem. And it's not even too difficult if you do it systematically and regularly. OBOZ.UA has collected some effective life hacks that will help you overcome limescale from water.

How to clean limescale

Cleaning experts say that the best lime removers are those with moderately high acidity. This does not include chlorine-based bleaches. They are not able to dissolve limescale.

But what will help to cope with the problem is hydrogen peroxide in pharmacy concentration, white vinegar, including in combination with baking soda, and citric acid. Here's how they can be used in different rooms and situations.

In the bathroom

Toilets, showers, bathtubs, and sinks are the most affected by hard water. To remove limescale from them, you can make an all-purpose cleaner by mixing equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle. This spray will be used to treat stains on glass, tiles, or faucets directly. Leave the solution on the stain for a few minutes to allow the vinegar to break down the mineral deposits. Then use a brush, sponge, or cloth to gently scrub the stained areas. If you don't like the smell of vinegar, you can replace it with citric acid. Just dilute a tablespoon of the product in 500 ml of water and the spray is ready.

Pharmacy hydrogen peroxide can also help clean plumbing. To enhance its effect, you can mix it in equal proportions with dishwashing liquid.

Either of these products will work even better if you spray it on a paste of baking soda and water applied to lime marks. This lightweight abrasive is also suitable for stubborn stains and heavy lime deposits.

In the kitchen

The same products are useful for cleaning the faucet and sink in the kitchen. You may also need to clean the lime from the faucet aerator. A clogged grid, especially if you use a faucet with a hose and a shower function, can disrupt the quality of the device. To quickly clean the aerator, unscrew it and place it in a plastic bag filled with a mixture of water and vinegar. Alternatively, place the bag over the faucet so that the faucet head is completely immersed in the cleaning liquid and secure it with a rubber band. Allow the product to work for at least 30 minutes, preferably an hour or even longer, and then clean the aerator with a soft brush. The coating should come off easily.

Cleaning household appliances

If your dishes become cloudy after machine washing and your clothes become stiff and prickly to the touch after washing, it's time to descale the respective machines. To descale your dishwasher, place a bowl of white vinegar on the top shelf and run a hot cycle with no dishes inside. When it's finished, run the machine again with an empty dish, but this time with the appropriate care product. No trace of limescale will remain.

To freshen up your washing machine, pour a few cups of white vinegar or a couple of citric acid sachets into the powder tray and run a hot cycle. Another good option is to install a water softener on the water pipe. This device will solve the problem of hard water radically.

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