That white, chalky crust around taps, in the toilet bowl and on shower glass is limescale: minerals left behind when hard water evaporates. Ordinary cleaners slide right over it. To remove it, you need something that dissolves minerals, which usually means a mild acid.
Where it builds up
- Toilet bowls, especially at the waterline and under the rim
- Taps, shower heads and the base of taps
- Shower glass and tiles
- Kettles and urns
- Urinals in commercial washrooms
Light build-up
For taps and shower glass with light spots, wipe with a cloth soaked in white vinegar, leave for a few minutes and rinse. A squeegee after every shower stops spots forming in the first place.
Stubborn toilet stains
Thick brown or white rings in toilets and urinals need a stronger acid cleaner such as STR95 Ultimate Toilet Stain Remover. For regular maintenance between deep cleans, use a Toilet Bowl Cleaner.
- Flush, then lower the water level if you can, so the product isn't diluted.
- Apply as directed on the label, especially under the rim and on the stain.
- Leave for the recommended contact time.
- Scrub with a toilet brush and flush.
Prevention
- Clean toilets and taps regularly so scale never gets thick.
- Dry shower glass and taps after use.
- Fix dripping taps and running toilets. Constant water flow leaves constant deposits.
Stock up
STR95 Toilet Stain Remover, Toilet Bowl Cleaner and Salvatex Household Gloves are available from maxproducts.co.za.
Products mentioned in this guide
Available now from our sister company Max Products at maxproducts.co.za, in trade sizes and delivered in Cape Town.
STR95 Toilet Stain RemoverShop now →
Toilet Bowl CleanerShop now →
Salvatex Household GlovesShop now →
