Tackling Limescale on Showerheads: The Expert’s Fast Solution
The Overlooked Problem of Showerheads
Showerheads with limescale build-up are often overlooked during bathroom cleaning, primarily because, unlike grimy bathtubs, they don’t visibly show their internal filth. Limescale and organic matter, known as mineral deposits, accumulate over time, potentially clogging the nozzles and disrupting water flow.
Signs Your Showerhead Needs Cleaning
If households notice a sudden drop in water pressure or an inconsistent spray pattern, it is likely that the showerhead needs a thorough cleaning. To remove limescale from the showerhead, you only need the “right household product,” say bathroom experts from Villeroy and Boch.
Common Cleaning Myths and the Best Solution
While many people use baking soda or white vinegar to naturally remove limescale, these methods can be “time-consuming.” Instead, citric acid is recommended because it “dissolves stubborn limescale” for “perfect results.”
The experts explained: “Cleaning with baking soda or vinegar is very gentle on the material, but is somewhat time-consuming. A faster way is the use of citric acid, which can be found in powdered form at all drugstores. Always follow the dosing and safety instructions on the packaging.”
Why Citric Acid Works
Citric acid is an excellent addition to the list of natural cleaning ingredients due to its low pH value, making it very acidic and effective in removing substances like limescale (calcium deposits), rust, and other minerals. It is also good for removing mold and mildew and can serve as a preservative.
Safety First: Handling Citric Acid
Because citric acid is corrosive, households should protect their hands with gloves or rinse the remaining cleaning agent immediately with water to avoid skin irritation.
Steps to Clean Your Showerhead
- Remove the Showerhead: Unscrew the showerhead and place it in a bowl of water. The water should completely cover the showerhead.
- Mix the Solution: Dissolve a level teaspoon of citric acid in some cold water and add the mixture to the bowl.
- Soak and Rinse: Citric acid is “significantly more aggressive than baking soda,” so 15 to 45 minutes should be enough to “completely descale the showerhead.”
- Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the showerhead under clear water and allow enough water to run through it to flush out any remaining acid.
Testing for Safety
Because citric acid is very aggressive, you should spot-test the acid on an inconspicuous part of the showerhead to check if it damages the material. If so, households might be better off using baking soda or vinegar to remove limescale.
