LifestyleTackle hard water woes: Simple solutions for clearer skin and cleaner homes

Tackle hard water woes: Simple solutions for clearer skin and cleaner homes

Hard water from municipal waterworks is a common issue in many cities. It can result in skin dryness and the buildup of limescale on fixtures. Nonetheless, there are methods to address this problem.

How to get rid of limescale?
How to get rid of limescale?
Images source: © Adobe Stock
Aleksandra Lewandowska

Several indicators can recognise hard water. Firstly, clothes washed without fabric softener become stiff and wrinkled. Secondly, fixtures develop a coating of limescale that is difficult to remove. Thirdly, the skin becomes dry, and the hair condition worsens. Finally, limescale quickly accumulates in the electric kettle.

How can you prevent limescale buildup?

While we cannot alter water hardness, we can soften it by investing in specialist filters. These filters remove heavy metals, microplastics, and contaminants, making the water not only more palatable but also less damaging to the skin, hair, and fixtures.

Mineral salts and elements contained in hard water settle on various surfaces, creating limescale. Regular descaling of appliances that come into contact with hard water can prevent this. However, due to busy schedules, we often delay cleaning, resulting in a thick layer of limescale on taps and showers.

Effective way to remove limescale

To remove limescale from a tap, you can use a straightforward method. You'll need a small amount of laundry detergent and vinegar. Vinegar is highly effective at removing limescale, and the detergent enhances its efficacy. This mixture can eliminate even thick layers of limescale.

To prepare the paste, mix the detergent with vinegar in a 1:2 ratio to create a thick paste. Then, rub it into the tap surface covered with limescale, leave it for 5 minutes, and then wipe it off with a damp sponge soaked in warm water. The limescale will disappear without a trace. This method can also be used to descale the showerhead and shower cabin.

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