A head-to-head test of two popular limescale removers found that the Flash Deep Clean & Hygiene Anti-Bac Bathroom Cleaner removed considerably more limescale than Viakal, and it also cost less.
The comparison was carried out after limescale built up on bathroom taps. Limescale can accumulate rapidly, settling on taps, shower heads and shower screens, and can even take hold in concealed spots such as water pipes and heating systems. It can appear unsightly and can lead to damage.
Viakal markets itself as the “number one against limescale”, so it was tested against the Flash Deep Clean & Hygiene Anti-Bac Bathroom Cleaner, which promises to “remove up to 100% of bathroom grease and limescale”.
Viakal results
Viakal Classic Limescale Remover Spray was purchased from Asda for £2.65. One spray was applied to each tap following the instructions on the bottle.
The Viakal bottle instructed that the product be sprayed onto the limescale-covered area and left for three minutes, the maximum duration recommended. After the three minutes had passed, the tap was rinsed and a damp sponge was used to wipe away the solution and scrub the limescale.
Substantial chunks of limescale remained on the tap even after the spray had been left for the maximum duration. Some limescale was scrubbed away, but other areas remained too stubborn. Removing it would have required a second application, which was not done in order to keep the comparison fair between the products.
Flash results
Flash's cleaner cost £2.44 from Asda and came in an almost identical bottle. Its instructions stated to leave the solution on for five minutes instead of three.
The tap was not as thoroughly covered by the Flash spray as it was by Viakal. When the time passed, the instructions advised wiping the surface and rinsing it.
Most of the limescale had lifted, and after a scrub with a sponge, it looked significantly better.
Verdict
Both products were straightforward and simple to apply, with results appearing within minutes. The Flash product removed considerably more limescale than Viakal.
No second application was needed with the Flash solution to eliminate the limescale. It also works out marginally cheaper.
Flash's product offers the advantage of not only removing limescale, but tackling soap scum and eliminating 99.9% of bacteria too. The solution performed more effectively and saves a bit of money, making it the clear choice for future use.
