When it comes to cleaning the toilet, many swear by baking soda and vinegar. But let’s be honest: this mixture quickly reaches its limits when it comes to stubborn limescale and urine scale.

However, there is an ingredient that, chemically speaking, is a real weapon against limescale and grime, and it costs next to nothing: citric acid (C6H8O7).

Why citric acid is stronger than baking soda
Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) is slightly alkaline and primarily helps against grease. However, limescale and urine scale are mineral deposits that require a strong acid to dissolve. Citric acid lowers the pH level in the water much more effectively and chemically dissolves the bond between limescale and ceramic.

How to use it: How to make your toilet sparkle again
You can use citric acid either as a powder or in liquid form. For perfect results, proceed as follows:

Lower the water level: Use the toilet brush to push as much water as possible down the drain so the acid isn’t immediately diluted.

Dosage: Add 3 to 4 tablespoons of citric acid powder directly to the remaining water and apply it to the rim.

Let it work: This is the most important step! Let it work for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for stubborn deposits.

Follow-up: Give it a quick scrub with the brush and flush. The dirt will practically come off by itself.

Comparison: Citric acid vs. baking soda

Pro tip: The “lemon cling trick”

The problem with liquid cleaners is that they run off immediately under the rim. Mix citric acid with a splash of neutral-tasting cornstarch and water (boiled to a thin gel). This mixture adheres firmly to the rim and can “eat away” the dirt there for hours.

Important note: Never mix citric acid with chlorine-based cleaners! This process can produce toxic chlorine gas. And be careful with marble floors in the bathroom – acid attacks limestone immediately.

Would you like to know how you can safely descale your washing machine and kettle using citric acid?