How to Remove Limescale from Your Toilet Rim | Cillit Bang UK

How to remove limescale from your toilet rim

We understand that limescale is not something you want to see in your toilet, but it’s very common in households across the UK. Not only does it affect the appearance of your toilet, but it can also lead to potential plumbing issues. So, put on those rubber gloves and let's find out how to remove limescale from your toilet rim and restore its cleanliness.

What is limescale?

Before we eliminate it, it’s important to understand what limescale is. It looks like a chalky substance and builds up around areas with excess moisture, such as the bathroom or kitchen. When soluble calcium bicarbonate converts into insoluble calcium carbonate, it then becomes limescale.

How to remove limescale from the toilet with Cillit Bang Expert

If you’re struggling with limescale in your toilet, a great option is Cillit Bang Expert 100% Limescale Remover—this powerful formula leaves a brilliant shine, so your bathroom will remain clean for longer. Here’s how you use it:

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

It's important to achieve a clean and limescale-free toilet, both for a nicer look and to ensure your bathroom is hygienic for when your family or friends visit. So don’t be shy, get personal with your toilet and analyse the aftermath.

Read on to discover natural alternatives to tackling limescale in your toilet.

Step 1: Get the necessary supplies

As it’s often the first and last place we visit in the day, we understand the importance of having a clean and hygienic toilet. That's why we're here to help you achieve this. The supplies you'll need are a toilet brush, white vinegar, a spray bottle and a pumice stone. These items will help you effectively remove limescale buildup.

Step 2: Preparing the toilet

Though it’s not glamorous, we want you to have all the necessary information to remove limescale. Here are our thoughts in this field. Flush the toilet to ensure it’s as clean as possible. By preparing the toilet correctly, you are setting yourself up for success in removing limescale from your toilet below the waterline.

Step 3: Use white vinegar

White vinegar is a natural and effective solution for removing limescale from your toilet below the rim due to its acidic properties that help dissolve limescale buildup. Fill a spray bottle with undiluted white vinegar, spray it generously and evenly on the limescale, and get ready to witness the power of this everyday household item.

Step 4: Let the vinegar sit

After applying white vinegar, it’s important to let it sit for a while to allow it to work. We recommend leaving the vinegar on the limescale for at least 30 minutes or an hour to remove thick limescale from your toilet. So, be patient and let the vinegar do its job in tackling that stubborn limescale.

Step 5: Scrubbing with a toilet brush

Now it’s time to use some elbow grease—take the toilet brush and vigorously scrub the area below the waterline. We recommend scrubbing with a strong toilet brush with firm bristles and using vinegar to help break down and remove the limescale. Remember to apply some pressure while scrubbing but be cautious not to damage the toilet surface.

Step 6: Using a pumice stone (if necessary)

If the limescale buildup is particularly stubborn, you may need to use a pumice stone. Wet the pumice stone and gently scrub the affected areas, applying light pressure only as it can scratch the toilet surface. The abrasive texture of the pumice stone helps to remove tough limescale deposits. Please note that the pumice stone should be used as a last resort for those stubborn limescale stains that won't budge with other methods.

Step 7: Flushing and inspecting

Once you’ve exhausted the scrubbing process, it's time to evaluate your hard work. Flush the toilet multiple times to ensure all the solutions and limescale residue are thoroughly rinsed away. This step is crucial to ensure that no traces of limescale are left behind. If you notice any remaining limescale, repeat the previous steps or consider using a different method to tackle the stubborn buildup.

Preventing future limescale buildup in the toilet

It’s crucial to regularly clean your toilet with mild cleaners to keep limescale at bay. Consider using a toilet bowl cleaner specifically designed to prevent limescale such as Cillit Bang Expert 100% Limescale Remover. Additionally, reducing the amount of hard water entering your toilet can also help minimise limescale buildup—installing a water softener can be effective in reducing the mineral content in your water, thereby reducing limescale formation. If other areas in your home are bothering you because of their limescale buildup, like your taps or shower, there are similar solutions you can use.

With these useful tips, you can maintain a clean and limescale-free toilet in your household and make your bathroom a haven of hygiene.