LIMESCALE can be a stubborn stain but it doesn't have to be difficult to remove. One woman shared the every day step her mother-in-law taught her to prevent a build up in her shower. In her viral video, TikTok user AJ (@a.j..mel) revealed the two ingredients that can make all the difference. She shared that her mother-in-law is "full of hacks for every single thing.". Rather than use a traditional cleaning product, she swears by two household items for tackling limescale.
![[Shower head with hard water damage.]](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/hard-water-calcium-deposit-corrosion-972838633.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
According to AJ, the simple trick means you can "forget scrubbing" hard water stains. Instead, she recommended using distilled white vinegar, available for 35p from Aldi. The TikToker mixed this with washing up liquid, which you can pick up for just 69p from Aldi. AJ advised her audience to spray their showers with the mixture after every use. "Soap scum? Hard water stains? They never get the chance to build up," she explained.
![[Bottle of Bramwells Distilled Vinegar.]](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/bramwells-distilled-vinegar-568ml-972838507.jpg?strip=all&w=624)
White vinegar is effective for removing hard water stains because it is acidic in nature. This means it can dissolve mineral deposits left behind by hard water on various surfaces. If you already have a build up of hard water in your shower, simply spray white vinegar directly on the stained area and allow it to sit for 30 minutes. Using a sponge, you can simply lift the limescale, working the stain until it disappears.
![[Magnum Original Washing Up Liquid (500ml) bottle.]](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/magnum-original-washing-liquid-500ml-972838506.jpg?strip=all&w=613)
Mixing in washing up liquid can help to break down the stain as it is designed to tackle grease. Make sure you dilute the solution with water before spraying it in your shower. TikTok users shared their thoughts on the advice in the comments section. Keeping a bathroom clean and fresh can sometimes feel like a daunting task, but with a few practical tips and a regular cleaning schedule, it can be much more manageable.
1. Regular Maintenance. Daily Wipe-Down: A quick daily wipe-down of surfaces, such as the sink, countertops, and taps, can prevent the build-up of grime and soap scum. Keep a microfibre cloth handy for this purpose. Ventilation: Ensure that your bathroom is well-ventilated to prevent mould and mildew. Open windows or use an extractor fan during and after showers. 2. Tackling Limescale and Hard Water Stains.
Vinegar Solution: Hard water can cause limescale build-up on taps and showerheads. Soak a cloth in white vinegar and wrap it around the affected areas for a few hours, then scrub with a brush. Lemon Juice: Lemon juice is another effective natural cleaner for limescale. Apply it directly to the affected areas, let it sit for a while, and then rinse off. 3. Cleaning the Toilet. Toilet Cleaner: Use a specialised toilet cleaner to scrub the bowl. Apply the cleaner under the rim and allow it to sit for a few minutes before scrubbing with a toilet brush.
Bicarbonate of Soda and Vinegar: For a natural alternative, sprinkle bicarbonate of soda into the bowl, then add vinegar. The fizzing action helps to lift stains and disinfect. 4. Shower and Bath. Showerhead: Remove mineral deposits by soaking the showerhead in a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water. You can do this by filling a plastic bag with the solution and securing it around the showerhead with a rubber band.
Bathtub: Use a non-abrasive cleaner to scrub the bathtub. For stubborn stains, make a paste with bicarbonate of soda and water, apply it to the stains, and let it sit before scrubbing. 5. Tiles and Grout. Grout Cleaner: Grout can harbour mould and mildew. Use a grout cleaner or a mixture of bicarbonate of soda and water to scrub the grout lines. An old toothbrush can be particularly effective for this task.
Tile Cleaner: Regularly clean tiles with a mild detergent or a vinegar solution to keep them shiny and free of soap scum. 6. Mirrors and Glass. Glass Cleaner: Use a glass cleaner or a mixture of vinegar and water to clean mirrors and glass surfaces. Wipe with a microfibre cloth to avoid streaks. Shower Doors: Prevent soap scum build-up on glass shower doors by using a squeegee to remove water after each use.
7. Floors. Sweep and Mop: Sweep the bathroom floor regularly to remove hair and dust. Mop with a mild detergent or a suitable floor cleaner to maintain cleanliness. 8. Trash and Laundry. Empty Bins: Empty bathroom bins regularly to prevent nasty smelling odours. Laundry: Keep a small laundry basket in the bathroom for used towels and bathmats, and wash them regularly. 9. Finishing Touches. Air Fresheners: Utilise air fresheners or essential oil diffusers to maintain a pleasant fragrance in the bathroom.
Organisation: Ensure toiletries and cleaning supplies are neatly organised and stored to minimise clutter and facilitate easier cleaning. "The ONLY cleaner I use for everything is washing up liquid, white distilled vinegar, and water. It’s the best cleaner hands down," wrote one viewer. "The vinegar tip is so real, it’s also a great way to get rid of mould too," said another follower. "The washing up liquid and vinegar in the shower!!! I hate the smell of vinegar but nothing works as good," commented a third person.