Cleaning expert Sophie, owner of Sustainably Lazy, recommends citric acid as a more effective and safer alternative to bleach for removing limescale from toilets. Unlike bleach, which is inadequate for breaking down limescale and can damage the bowl, citric acid's natural acidity dissolves the alkaline minerals effectively.
Why citric acid works
Sophie explained that the trick to removing limescale is using acid and heat. Commercial cleaners often contain hazardous substances like hydrochloric acid or sulphamidic acid, which are toxic to aquatic life and unpleasant to inhale. She said: "They are definitely not the sort of chemicals I want in my home now that I have children. The acid of my choice is citric acid."
Citric acid's acidity breaks down the alkaline minerals in limescale, causing it to disintegrate rapidly. While vinegar and cola are often recommended, Sophie finds citric acid more effective and cheaper. She noted: "Alternatively, you could use white vinegar, but I find citric acid is more effective and works out cheaper and better."
How to use it
Sophie advises cleaning the toilet in the evening to allow the solution to work overnight. She said: "Before you go to bed, make sure everyone has got an empty bladder. If you need a pee in the night, then don't flush until the morning."
Start by boiling the kettle but stop just before it reaches boiling point. Gently pour the hot water into the toilet bowl. Then, add half a box of citric acid and let it sit overnight. The next morning, a quick scrub with a toilet brush should remove remaining stains.
For persistent limescale, repeat the process for another night. To prevent buildup, Sophie recommends keeping a box of citric acid near the toilet and adding a spoonful each night before bed.
