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Limescale build-up is, unfortunately, a normal occurrence for most UK bathrooms. However, for those wanting to keep their bathroom looking as good as new, it can be rather disturbing. Yet, this is one bathroom problem that can be easily identified and eliminated. And best of all, it needn't be an expensive process.
The solution to removing limescale often lies in many kitchen cupboards. Here The Bathroom Showroom explains why limescale appears in our bathrooms. We also offer three simple solutions to keep it in check.

What is Limescale?

Limescale is a build-up of white chalky deposits that collect in the bathroom environment. The scientific name for it is calcium carbonate.
Prevalent around those areas exposed to water, limescale is a nuisance. But, it's especially problematic for those in hard water areas.
Limescale appears when rainwater passes soft rocks, like limestone and chalk, picking up its minerals. Some of these minerals remain in your water when it enters the bathroom. This makes it problematic around your taps, shower, toilet, tiles, and plugholes. 
Over time, limescale becomes an unsightly visual discolouration. 

How Harmful Is Limescale?

Many people often wonder whether limescale is dangerous? In terms of our health, limescale in the bathroom is nothing to be overly concerned about. It can’t harm us, and it isn't hazardous. 
Understandably though, not many of us want to bathe or shower in a bathroom that has limescale issues!
However, limescale can start to affect the performance of our fixtures and fittings when left untreated. This can lead to blockages in pipes, taps, and shower heads. You may also start to notice a reduction in water pressure over time.

How to Remove Limescale in the Bathroom

Three main ingredients are the most effective at removing bathroom limescale. These include white vinegar, lemon juice, and bicarbonate of soda. 
The great thing about such ingredients is that they're gentle on fittings and fixtures. Such choices are also beneficial cleaning products for our health and the wider environment:
  • Lemon Juice 
An acidic ingredient, lemon juice works to wash away those smaller deposits of limescale. This eliminates the need for harsh scrubbing. 
Lemon juice can be used by spraying onto the affected areas and then left for 10 minutes before wiping it off. For those more stubborn areas, try leaving the spray overnight to soak away at the limescale.
  • White Vinegar 
White vinegar is unlike regular vinegar because it has a stronger acidity. This makes it ideal as a cleansing vinegar solution for many purposes. 
Free of chemicals, white vinegar is a natural antibacterial ingredient. This makes it ideal for the bathroom environment.
White vinegar should always be mixed with equal parts of warm water. Again, you can use it as a cleaning solution and wipe over affected areas. For those more persistent and stubborn areas, you can leave it to soak for a short while before wiping it away. 
However, white vinegar isn’t recommended for gold-plated and chrome taps.
  • Bicarbonate of Soda 
Bicarbonate of soda can be used to create a form of paste and applied directly into areas with limescale. How stubborn those areas are will determine how long this mixture should be left on to work.
Once the soda has broken down the deposits, wipe down the area afterwards with a damp clean cloth to remove. 
You can also combine bicarbonate of soda with lemon juice for a more refreshing cleaning choice.
Whatever method you decide to use, always remember to wipe the solution away fully. Then, dry the area to finish for the best results. 
(It’s worth noting that bleach is not recommended as an effective form of limescale remover. Contrary to popular belief, bleach can not and does not remove limescale. All it does is work to brighten the discolouration of limescale)

How Do I Prevent Limescale?

Ultimately, it’s not possible to stop limescale from entering your bathroom entirely. But you can work to effectively reduce its appearance. 
The key here is to keep on top of it by implementing a good bathroom cleaning regime. 
A regular cleaning schedule can work to keep limescale under control. It can also prevent any unsightly build-up from occurring as you’ll be able to act on it quickly. 
By using the home remedies suggested above once a month, you can keep limescale under control. This way you continue to ensure your dream bathroom stays looking fabulous.
For more bathroom ideas and bathroom inspiration, take a look at our Rest and Relaxation blog section. With articles ranging from choosing the best bathroom paint to organising the space under your basin, we provide a wealth of guidance to help you make the most of your bathroom.