Limescale is a substance often left behind when mineral heavy water evaporates, leaving our showerheads packed with grime and bacteria. But shower expert, Brian Toward, has a trick to get rid of it
Many of us overlook the grime on our showerheads – but this 35p hack will make yours spotless in no time at all.
When giving your bath tub a scrub, it’s easy to forget the showerhead also needs a good rinsing. Perhaps you’re falling victim to a typical rookie error, thinking: what could possibly make it dirty when it’s barely been touched?
Though, if you dare to look up for a moment you may see a layer of limescale, minerals and bacteria which has built up over time. But fear not. Brian Toward, the CEO of Wholesale Domestic claims there is one easy thing you can do to rid of this – and it involves a simple cupboard item.
“The shower head is often forgotten about and it’s not until you’re standing underneath it mid-shower that you notice all the grime that’s built up,” he said. “Distilled white vinegar is the answer to cleaning your shower head and addressing your limescale problems.”
Limescale is a substance that’s often left behind when mineral heavy water evaporates. This is commonly known as ‘hard water’ that forms when ordinary water moves through limestone, chalk or gypsum on its way to your tap.
Although it’s not a health hazard, some say it can lead to blemishes on the skin, scalp issues and even split ends in the hair. Its production of limescale can also wreak havoc on kettles, pipes, dishwashers and showerheads – affecting their ability to function in the long run.
Brian claims that around 60% of people in the UK live in ‘hard water areas’, but the South and East of England are certainly at the centre of it. He continued: “If you live in a hard water area, limescale can build up fairly quickly.
“[To tackle it], pour the white vinegar into a zip lock sandwich bag with your unscrewed shower head until the head is fully submerged. Leave it to soak for at least an hour to work its magic.
“After an hour, remove it from the bag and spray it with your favourite disinfectant before blasting the shower at a hot temperature to get rid of any excess residue.” White vinegar is especially effective thanks to its acetic acid which works to break down the limescale’s calcium carbonate.
Other experts have also praised its abilities to get rid of dandelions, unblock sink drains and even keep strawberries fresh for longer when used in other DIY hacks around the home. To grab some for yourself, head to Tesco or Aldi, where you can buy it for only 35p.
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