Banish limescale from taps in minutes by swapping vinegar for better ingredient

If you've ever spotted any marks or discolouration on your tap, then you likely have a limescale issue, and these stains can't simply be wiped away. Limescaleis the accumulation of minerals left behind from hard water, and when it dries, it can solidify into a really stubborn stain that will stick to a tap and not come off with regular cleaning.

If left unattended, limescale can become a breeding ground for bacteria, making your tap unsanitary and your hands dirty even if you've just washed them.

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However, the cleaning experts at Diamond Home Support have revealed that it can be really simple to get rid of tap limescale if you use the right item, as all you need is a lemon.

They explained: "The acidic properties of lemons make them highly effective at breaking down limescale and restoring the shine to taps. By applying lemon directly to the affected areas and allowing it to work its magic, limescale can be removed without the need for harsh chemical cleaners."

It might sound utterly bonkers, but lemon juice contains a substance called citric acid, which is strong enough to dissolve the minerals in limescale and loosen the stain, reports the Express.

Limescale is not water-soluble, meaning you cannot just wipe it away as it bonds to a surface. You need an acidic substance to break it down. The citric acid in lemons can quickly eliminate limescale in just a few minutes, but it is still a natural substance that will be gentle on your metal taps.

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How to clean taps and remove limescale stains

Squeeze one half of the lemon onto any stains on your tap. Then, rub the other lemon slice all over your tap to ensure you get into any nook or cranny.

Wait a few minutes to allow the citric acid some time to break down the limescale. Then, use an old toothbrush or a bristled brush to scrub any stains on the tap. The limescale should quickly crumble away. Rinse the area with warm water, dry it and your taps should now look sparkling clean.

If there are any particularly stubborn limescale stains, you can place the lemon on the tap spout, secure it with a rubber band, and then leave it to give the citric acid more time.

By following these simple instructions, your taps will remain as sparkling as ever in just five minutes - and it's all thanks to the magic of a slice of lemon. It's not expensive, nor time-consuming, it's simply a scrub and some water poured over it.