Tackling a stained toilet is a task many dread, but fear not, as these unsightly marks are often caused by limescale, a natural substance that forms due to minerals left behind from evaporated hard water.
Despite the elbow grease you put in, scrubbing or dousing with bleach won't shift these stubborn stains, as over time, the minerals harden and bond firmly to surfaces. But cleaning guru Brodie Cook from Lucent Globe has revealed a simple and effective method to banish limescale using just citric acid, a natural product.
Brodie explains: "Citric acid, a natural compound found in citrus fruits like lemons and oranges, has powerful cleaning properties. It is a safe, non-toxic way to keep your toilet sparkling clean and free from harmful chemicals."
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While many resort to bleach for toilet stains, it's futile against limescale, which it can't dissolve; it merely lightens the appearance of the marks.
Opt instead for citric acid, which naturally breaks down the mineral deposits, allowing them to be flushed away effortlessly, saving you from a prolonged scrubbing session, reports the Express.
You can find citric acid in lemon juice, but for a more potent and crystallised form, check out the cleaning aisle in most supermarkets. At Asda, you can pick up a 250g box of citric acid for just £1.75.
Not only does citric acid tackle stubborn stains, but it also has antibacterial properties, making it a cost-effective and eco-friendly solution for maintaining a hygienic loo.
How to use citric acid to clean a toiletYou will need:
- A box of citric acid
- Warm water
- Spray bottle (optional)
Method:
All you need to do is sprinkle roughly one tablespoon of citric acid into your toilet bowl, ensuring the sides and the water line are covered.
If your toilet is plagued by limescale stains, then mix a tablespoon of citric acid with warm water in a spray bottle, and apply directly onto the stain.
Once the citric acid is applied, leave it undisturbed for at least 30 minutes. This allows the cleaning solution ample time to dissolve minerals and grime in the limescale.

When the time's up, use a toilet brush to scrub away the limescale, which should now come off easily. If there's limescale on your toilet seat, simply wipe it away with a cloth.
Finally, flush the toilet and your loo should now be completely free of stains and smelling fresh. Citric acid is one of the simplest ways to banish limescale, though some people prefer using other acidic substances like white vinegar or even cola to tackle the stains.
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