How to Get Rid of Limescale in Toilet
Want to know how to remove limescale from your toilet and return it to it’s original sparkling state?
Read on to find out how…
Limescale buildup in a toilet can lead to unsightly stains, which not only dull the surface but can also be tough to clean. Over time, limescale deposits, caused by hard water can block water flow under the rim, reducing the flushing power and allowing bacteria to thrive. If you’re looking to get rid of limescale in your toilet, regular cleaning is essential, not just for appearance, but for maintaining proper function and hygiene. In this guide, we’ll explore how to get rid of limescale in toilet and keep your toilet fresh for good.
What is limescale?
Limescale forms when calcium and magnesium are deposited as hard water evaporates, leaving behind a chalky, scummy residue that’s often recognised on shower screens, showerheads, drinking glasses, and taps. The colours of limescale can vary depending on the diverse compounds present in the water entering your home. Typically, limescale appears in shades of off-white or grey.
Why do I have limescale in my toilet?
Hard water has a knack for swiftly accumulating on sinks, showers, and toilets, leaving behind stubborn rust and scale stains that pose a challenge to remove. Additionally, it wreaks havoc on household appliances, hindering water flow in pipes and impeding the performance of various devices. Among all the areas and appliances in our homes, toilets stand out as particularly problematic. Constantly subjected to heavy use and with stagnant water often present, toilets provide an ideal environment for limescale to flourish, exacerbating the issue. However, there are methods available to remove limescale from the toilet.
How to clean toilet stains with home remedies
Many people turn to chemicals such as bleach to try and remove limescale stains in their toilet bowls. However, this only masks the problem temporarily by bleaching the scale, leading to a short-lived improvement before the stains resurface. There are various other methods to clean toilet stains that are long-lasting, which we’ve explored below:
Using Vinegar & Baking Soda
One of the most effective and eco-friendly ways to tackle limescale is by using white vinegar and baking soda. This method works well for light to moderate buildup and uses ingredients you likely already have at home.
Steps:
- Pour 1 cup of white vinegar into the toilet bowl and stir with a toilet brush. Let sit for 1 minute.
- 2. Add 1 cup of baking soda, then 1–2 cups of vinegar. Let the fizzing sit for 10 minutes.
- Use the toilet brush to swish the solution around, coating any stains above the waterline.
- Let it sit for up to 30 minutes, scrubbing occasionally. Then flush to rinse.
This natural method dissolves mineral deposits and deodorizes the bowl, an effective, gentle way to remove limescale.
Using Cleaning Products
If home remedies aren’t strong enough, there are a number of toilet limescale removers you can purchase that can offer faster, more powerful results.
Popular options:
-
Descaling gels/liquids: Use acids to break down mineral buildup fast.
-
Limescale sprays: Ideal for under-the-rim and tough spots.
-
Toilet tablets: Help maintain cleanliness between deep cleans.
How to use:
-
Apply as directed, focusing on stained areas.
-
Let sit for 10–30 minutes.
-
Scrub and flush.
Choose products labeled for limescale or hard water stains for best results.
Using Pumice Stone
Pumice stone is a highly effective manual method for removing stubborn limescale stains without damaging the porcelain when used correctly.
But what is a pumice stone? A pumice stone is a lightweight, abrasive volcanic rock used for gentle scrubbing.
How to use a pumice stone:
-
Wet both the stone and toilet bowl to prevent scratches.
-
Gently scrub stains in circles with light pressure, focusing on heavy buildup.
-
Flush occasionally to rinse and check progress.
-
For tough stains, use with a descaling cleaner.
Note: Avoid on coated toilets or if unsure – test a small area first.
How to Get Rid of Limescale in the Toilet for Good: Water Softeners
To prevent limescale long-term, tackle the source: hard water. Much of the UK’s water is high in calcium and magnesium, which cause stubborn buildup.
A water softener removes these minerals before they reach your plumbing, reducing limescale in toilets, taps, and appliances, meaning cleaner surfaces and less scrubbing.
Installing one stops limescale at the source, not just the surface.
01
Economical
Culligan Harvey water softeners help cut costs by extending appliance life and reducing energy bills.
02
Low Maintenance
Designed for efficiency, our softeners offer reliable performance with minimal maintenance.
03
Space-Saving
Our softeners fit UK homes perfectly, with compact designs that deliver full power and capacity.
04
Eco-friendly
Culligan Harvey softeners reduce plastic waste, energy use, and chemical runoff, making your home more eco-friendly.
Conclusion
Removing toilet stains caused by limescale can be a frustrating and time-consuming task, especially in areas with hard water. While home remedies and cleaning products offer short-term relief, the buildup often returns, leaving surfaces dull and stained. The most effective way to stop limescale for good is to prevent it from forming in the first place.
At Culligan Harvey, we are committed to providing reliable, high-quality water softening solutions that help households across the UK combat the damaging effects of hard water. Our compact, efficient systems reduce mineral deposits throughout your plumbing, keeping toilets, taps, and appliances cleaner for longer. Contact us to find out more about how to remove limescale in your toilet with a water softener.
Do you need a water softener?
Test the mineral content in your home’s tap water.
If it’s 100ppm or above, you have hard water. A water softener can help you avoid limescale buildup, saving time and money.
* PPM stands for parts per million and indicates the concentration of dissolved limescale minerals like calcium and magnesium in water.
Get in touch with our experts
Please fill out this form so that we can contact you about your enquiry. You can also arrange for a free personalised water analysis in your home or through a virtual online demonstration.
Explore the benefits of softened water
Softened water provides so many benefits to your home and family, from a shiny kitchen and bathroom to being soft on skin and hair.
Food and Drink
Home Care
Water Hardness
How to Descale a Coffee Machine
How to Descale a Coffee Machine: Step-by-Step Methods To descale a coffee machine, you can use vinegar, lemon juice, or ...