How to remove stubborn limescale stains

As the years go by, limescale builds up on baths, fittings and tiles. Limescale on shower walls in particular is almost impossible to remove. You can keep scrubbing and scrubbing – but if you don’t use the right limescale remover, you won’t get far. But limescale remover can also corrode surfaces, varnishes and plastics. Before you apply limescale remover over a large area, first test the agent for tolerance on an out-of-sight spot.

Prevent limescale stains from developing

Limescale can be prevented in showers and baths by daily cleaning. After every shower, rinse the remaining soap and water from the bath and shower wall. Use a shower squeegee and then wipe down the shower wall dry again with a cloth. Wipe away any water from surfaces used for storage and rub the surfaces until they are dry. Wipe down shower fittings with a cloth. If limescale still builds up, remove it with a mild sanitary cleaner.

Safety information when using limescale remover

Whichever limescale remover you use, there are some important factors that you need to bear in mind:

• Not every limescale remover is suitable for cleaning fittings
• Never mix different limescale removers
• The descaler must be sprayed on to a cleaning cloth and not directly on to the fittings
• Read and follow the instructions on the packaging about application time
• Always rinse limescale cleaner with cold water.

Removing limescale stains

Regular cleaning with a gentle cleaner prevents the build-up of heavy limescale. The environment will also thank you if you use gentle cleaning agents instead of aggressive chemicals. Cover encrusted limescale with a cloth soaked in limescale remover and leave it overnight. Repeat this method to remove stubborn limescale stains.

Pay attention to the surface type

Limescale stains in baths, showers, sinks or toilet bowls should be removed with care. Baths and showers are often made of plastic and are sensitive to acidic cleaning agents, abrasive sponges and microfibre cloths. Porcelain (wash basins, toilets), on the other hand, is almost indestructible and can survive treatment with aggressive cleaners. Tiles are also tough, but this is not the case for the joints. The acidity of some cleaners makes the grout in the joints porous, so make sure you don’t damage it when removing limescale from tiles.

Descaling fittings and shower heads

Fittings are very delicate, which means it is particularly important that you use a suitable cleaner. It should not contain any hydrochloric, acetic or formic acid, as these will damage the shine of the fittings. Gels and foam cleaners are suitable for taps because they stick to angled surfaces and react better. You should also keep in mind the application time to avoid damage to the material. The following trick helps to descale shower heads: Cut off the mouthpiece of a balloon, fill the balloon with citric acid and put it over the shower head. Leave it for a while and then dry the shower head. This way, you don’t need to take off the shower head.