Step 1: Prepare the Toilet

  1. Remove Excess Water:
    • Turn off the water supply to the toilet.
    • Flush the toilet to lower the water level in the bowl. For areas still submerged, use a sponge or cup to remove the remaining water.
  2. Wear Gloves:
    • Put on rubber gloves to protect your hands from cleaning agents and bacteria.

Step 2: Apply Vinegar

  1. Pour Vinegar into the Bowl:
    • Pour about 2 cups of white vinegar into the toilet bowl, ensuring it covers the limescale-affected areas.
  2. Let It Soak:
    • Allow the vinegar to sit for 30 minutes to an hour. The acidity of the vinegar helps break down the mineral deposits.

Step 3: Add Baking Soda

  1. Sprinkle Baking Soda:
    • After the vinegar has soaked, sprinkle about 1 cup of baking soda around the toilet bowl, including directly on the limescale deposits.
  2. Pour More Vinegar:
    • Add another cup of vinegar to the bowl. The mixture will fizz, which helps loosen the limescale further.
  3. Wait:
    • Let the solution sit for another 30 minutes to an hour.

Step 4: Scrub the Bowl

  1. Use a Toilet Brush:
    • Scrub the toilet bowl vigorously with a toilet brush to remove loosened limescale.
  2. For Stubborn Spots:
    • Use a pumice stone specifically designed for toilet cleaning. Wet the stone first to avoid scratching the porcelain, then gently rub it on the limescale deposits.

Step 5: Rinse and Flush

  1. Flush the Toilet:
    • Turn the water supply back on and flush the toilet to rinse away the vinegar and baking soda solution, along with any remaining limescale.
  2. Check for Residue:
    • Inspect the toilet bowl for any leftover deposits. Repeat the process if necessary.

Step 6: Clean Hard-to-Reach Areas

  1. For Under the Rim:
    • Use an old toothbrush dipped in vinegar and baking soda to scrub under the toilet rim where limescale often hides.
  2. Let It Soak:
    • Apply more vinegar and let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing and rinsing.

Alternative Methods

If vinegar and baking soda don’t completely remove the limescale, consider the following options:

  • Lemon Juice and Borax:

    • Mix lemon juice and borax into a paste and apply it to the limescale. Let it sit for an hour before scrubbing and flushing.

  • Toilet-Safe Limescale Remover:

    • Use a commercial limescale remover specifically designed for toilets. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

  • Coca-Cola:

    • Pour a liter of Coca-Cola into the toilet bowl and let it sit overnight. The mild acidity can help dissolve limescale.

Prevention Tips

  • Regular Cleaning:
    • Clean your toilet weekly using a mild cleaner to prevent limescale buildup.
  • Install a Water Softener:
    • A water softener reduces the minerals in hard water, preventing limescale formation.
  • Descale Frequently:
    • Use a descaling solution or vinegar once a month to prevent severe buildup.