Cleaning whizz shares ingredient to lift hard water stains and make taps sparkle

09 March 2024 , 15:16

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A cleaning whizz has shared the perfect ingredient to lift hard water stains and make taps sparkle (stock photo) (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Hard water stains do not look aesthetic and they can be difficult to remove, however, one expert has just the hack and it won't break the bank.

The stubborn chalk-like off-white marks that can occur on sinks and taps from limescale can lead to permanent damage if they aren't tackled early on, and they can become a nightmare. However, one expert has shared a cost-effective hack that could help keep the hard water stains away.

James Elston of Boiler Central who is known for his maintenance and heating experience said: "The battle against hard water stains doesn't have to be a losing one." Sharing his well-guarded secret he has learnt over the years, he said: "Using a cut lemon on taps is an excellent method for not only removing them but also infusing a delightful freshness to your kitchen."

You could say the hack is easy-peasy-lemon-squeezy, as all you need is a cut lemon and rub it against impacted areas. Sharing how to successfully adopt the hack James said: "Start by cutting a fresh lemon in half. Take one of the halves and rub the exposed flesh directly onto the surface."

"Ensure you cover the areas with hard water stains thoroughly." The natural acid in the lemon will help battle the limescale and work its "magic" according to James, The Sun reports.

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He said: "The citric acid interacts with the minerals present in hard water stains, making them more manageable to wipe away."

This is a chemical-free way of tackling sensitive areas in your home where you often have food and drink around so finding a natural solution before reaching for the chemicals might be best.

You can get your money's work from the lemons by letting it sit on top of the affected area for very tough marks that are stubborn. He said: "This allows the citric acid to penetrate deeper, facilitating the removal of more persistent deposits."

As a natural source of citric agents, lemons can act as a mild cleaning agent. Their acidity reacts with minerals in the hard water stains breaking them down. James says this hack is "sustainable and eco-friendly," and can contribute to the "overall efficiency of your hot water system."

A single lemon will cost you less than 20p depending on where you shop. They are cheapest at Aldi with a pack of four setting you back 65p, meaning a single lemon is just 16p. Then at Asda, you will get three in a pack and pay 69p or a single lemon will be 23p. Ocado offers five lemons in a pack, which will set you back £1.44 or 29p per lemon.

Mariam Khan