Citric Acid is an acid found in citrus fruits such as lemons
and limes. It is non-toxic and naturally sourced.
For cleaning purposes, Citric Acid is an excellent natural descaler.
Perfect for Kettles, Washing Machines, Dishwashers and even toilets!
Limescale is a hard chalky substance that builds up on
surfaces that are often exposed to water. It is made up of dissolved minerals
such as calcium and magnesium carbonate in the water that get left behind when it
evaporates. Areas with hard water are more likely to suffer issues related to
limescale build up because the water has a higher concentration of dissolved
minerals.
Limescale can be easily recognised by a build-up of white
deposits that can be found on the heating elements of electrical appliances
such as kettles, irons, coffee machines and dishwashers.
Where water is being
heated it is at a greater risk of leaving limescale as it speeds up
evaporation. It can also be found on taps, showerheads, in toilets, pipes and
even on tiles.
Build up of Limescale over a long period of time can result in
appliances to operate poorly or even breakdown.
The best way to keep on top of limescale and the damages caused by it is to descale them regularly.
Decscaling a kettle is really quick and easy.
Simply fill it with enough water to
cover the heating components in the base, add one tablespoon of Citric Acid and
boil. One time should be enough but if the limescale is stubborn you can repeat
until it shifts.
Make sure the dishwasher is completely empty and place one
bowl of Citric Acid on the top rack and one bowl of Citric Acid on the bottom
rack.
Then run the machine as you normally would, using a long and hot cycle.
The Citric Acid works its way through the internals of the machine cleaning out
any limescale deposits.
One sign that your dishwasher needs a descaling is
streaky or cloudy glassware after washing.
Limescale build up in toilets tends to be brown, this is
because of other minerals it comes into contact with such as iron.
To remove
the limescale with Citric Acid, you first need to pour a bucket of boiling
water into the bowl, wait for it to drain and repeat.
Once the water has
drained again, pour in 125g of Citric Acid. The warmth from the water will help
to dissolve and activate the Citric Acid.
Leave for as long as you can, at
least one hour, then use a stiff brush to remove any remaining loosened
limescale and flush away.
We have a great recipe for Natural Toilet Fizzers
that can be used regularly to keep on top of limescale build up.
