Banish washing machine limescale buildup with common 35p kitchen ingredient

07 March 2024 , 15:58

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Here's how you can keep your washing machine free of limescale (stock photo) (Image: Getty Images)

We all know how difficult it is to remove limescale from our washing machines, but fortunately, there are products you can use to tackle the problem.

Limescale is caused by calcium and magnesium being left behind when hard water evaporates and can affect most household items and appliances including your washing machines.

A study conducted by appliance brand AEG found that one in ten Brits didn't know washing machines could be affected by limescale, whilst almost half of Brits admitted to never de-scaling their machines.

Michael Forbes, Product Specialist at AEG recommends that people clean their machines at least once a month to prevent the build-up of limescale and ensure clothes are in tip-top condition.

He said: "A quick maintenance wash should be done at least once a month to keep the machine in the best possible condition and ensure clothes come out looking their best.”

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"However, every six months it is important to de-scale a washing machine to clean the tub, the area you can't see surrounding the metal drum, to remove any bacteria and limescale buildup."

Some the the products he recommended people use include soda crystals, lemon juice or white vinegar, and baking soda. Soda crystals can be picked up for as little as £2, including at your local Tesco store, and can be used in each laundry wash.

Lemon juice and white vinegar essentially do the same thing – albeit one smells much better than the other. You can purchase them for as little as 35p and are often used instead of harsh chemical solutions. Simply pour a cup of either solution directly into the empty drum of the machine and select a high-temperature wash.

Another popular choice for cleaning is baking soda, which generally costs as little as 65p. It is particularly great at preventing limescale build-up in machines, and when added to a clothes wash, it can also help to remove any tough stains and to preserve the colours of items in the wash.

Ayaan Ali