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How to Remove Limescale from Your Shower | Cillit Bang UK

How do I remove shower limescale?

How to remove limescale from your shower
Your bathroom should be a relaxing sanctuary, a place you go to feel clean and refreshed. When limescale is taking over, however, your bathroom can feel anything but relaxing. If you’re noticing buildup in your bathroom and are wondering how to remove limescale from your shower, we have the tips and tricks to help you.


The science behind limescale 

Curious about what limescale actually is? It’s mainly made of calcium and magnesium and is left behind when water evaporates. It produces a hard, chalky substance and builds up where standing water has been left. That’s why sinks and taps are a common place for this problem to occur, but there are effective ways to remove limescale from taps. Another area prone to limescale buildup is the shower, from the shower head to the screen and glass.

For a solution to remove limescale that’s tough on stains, gentle on your surfaces* use the Cillit Bang Expert 100% Limescale Remover. It’s effective in removing up to 100% of limescale, soap scum and water marks, leaving a brilliant shine, so your bathroom will remain clean and shiny for longer. 

To use:

  1. Turn the nozzle to the "ON" position.
  2. Spray on the desired surface from 20cm away and leave for 5 minutes.
  3. Clean, rinse and dry the surface. Finally, return the nozzle to the "OFF" position. Store bottle in an upright position.

 *Not recommended for use on: Natural stone, brass, copper, linoleum and textiles. 

Here’s how to use this product, as well as other methods, to clean your shower head, shower screen and aluminium frame. 


How to remove limescale from shower head

If you’ve noticed reduced water flow or unsightly limescale buildup around your shower head, don't worry! We have a simple solution for you. 


Step 1: Remove the shower head

First, carefully remove the shower head from the shower arm—this will allow you to clean it more thoroughly and ensure no limescale is left behind.

Step 2: Soak the shower head in a solution

Next, prepare a solution of equal parts vinegar and water in a bowl or container, submerge the shower head in the solution and let it soak for about 30 minutes. The vinegar's acidity will help dissolve the limescale and improve the shower head's performance.


Step 3: Scrub the shower head with a toothbrush

After soaking, take a toothbrush and gently scrub the shower head to remove any remaining limescale. Pay special attention to the nozzles and crevices where limescale tends to accumulate and rinse the shower head thoroughly with water to remove any vinegar residue. Hopefully, you can feel revitalised the next time you shower. 

How to remove limescale from the shower screen or glass

Your glass shower doors are very noticeable when dirty and it can make your bathroom space feel smaller and unhygienic. Here are some tips on how you can get that crystal-clear view back.  


Step 1: Create an effective solution

There are different mixtures you can create to remove limescale: 

  1. You can use equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. 
  2. You can opt for baking soda and water to create a paste. 
  3. For a powerful method, use the Cillit Bang Expert 100% Limescale Remover. It’s effective in removing up to 100% of limescale, soap scum and water marks, leaving a brilliant shine, so your bathroom will remain clean and shiny for longer. 

Note – do not mix solutions together. 


Step 2: Apply the solution 

Spray the solution onto the limescale-covered areas of your shower screen, or apply the paste with a sponge. Allow it to sit for several minutes to penetrate the limescale and loosen its grip on the surface. 

Step 3: Scrub away the limescale

Now, take a non-abrasive sponge or cloth and gently scrub the limescale. Focus on the areas with the most build-up, applying pressure if needed and rinse the shower screen thoroughly with water to remove any residue.

How to remove limescale on aluminium shower frames

Another area of your shower prone to limescale buildup is the aluminium frame. If you’ve noticed it, don’t worry—we have the solution for you. 

Step 1: Create a solution

Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle. This mixture will help break down the limescale and make it easier to remove. Or for a powerful method, use the Cillit Bang Expert 100% Limescale Remover

Note – do not mix solutions together. 

Step 2: Start spraying

Spray the solution onto the limescale-covered areas of your aluminium shower frame. Allow the solution to sit for a few minutes to penetrate the limescale and loosen its grip.

Step 3: Scrub with a soft brush or sponge

After letting the solution sit, take a soft brush or sponge and gently scrub the limescale on the aluminium frame. Apply a bit of pressure if needed, focusing on the areas with the most build-up. If it’s not budging with the vinegar and water solution, you can create a difference by mixing lemon juice and baking soda. The acidic properties of lemon juice combined with the abrasive nature of baking soda make it a powerful combination for tackling stubborn limescale. Remember to rinse the frame thoroughly with water to remove any residue.

Preventing future limescale build-up in the shower

With your shower now limescale-free, it's important to take preventive measures to avoid future build-up. Take a few moments to wipe down the surfaces with a clean cloth or a good-quality squeegee because this will help remove any excess water and prevent limescale from forming. This is a great habit to have as you can prevent limescale from building up and keep your shower looking fresh and clean. 

With these best practice tips, you can maintain a sparkling shower that enhances your daily bathing experience.