Limescale, commonly referred to as calcium carbonate, is a mineral deposit that can form on surfaces where hard water has evaporated. In the case of toilet fixtures, specifically the seat and bowl, mineral deposits are left behind after the water evaporates.

This typically leads to brown, yellow, and grey residue adhering to the surface, making the toilet more challenging to clean due to its stubborn nature. A Mrs Hinch Tips and Tricks Facebook group member reached out anonymously to share their concerns about maintaining toilet hygiene. They explained: “My toilet gets brown stains so easily. It’s spotless now, and in a couple of weeks, it will be disgusting again and full of limescale, with yellow-brown stains. How can I prevent it?”

Others in the Facebook group responded, particularly suggesting that the best solution would be using Harpic Power Plus toilet cleaner. Sarah Hill mentioned that Harpic melts off limescale and stops it from returning.

She said: “Harpic melts off the limescale. I use it every week to make sure it doesn’t come back. My toilet's always shiny now.”

Elly Barrett agreed: “Remove the limescale with Harpic in the black bottle. You just need to leave it in there for a few minutes before flushing.

“If you use bleach, it will just bleach the colour out, but it doesn’t remove the limescale, so the colour will come back after just a couple of days.”

Jayne Hawley advised: “Black Harpic once a week. Leave it in the toilet for 10 minutes before flushing, and the limescale never comes back.”

Denise Bolster shared her go-to solution by posting an image of Harpic Power Plus toilet cleaner and commenting: “This stuff every time. It works wonders.” Echoing the sentiment, Patricia Lancaster replied: “That’s what I use, it’s brilliant.”

For those seeking a more natural route, citric acid is highly recommended. Sandy Herring said: “I always use citric acid and my loo is sparkling and has been for years.”

Jan Young advised: “Citric acid spread around the rim with a gloved hand, then sprinkled in the bowl overnight, then just flush as normal in the morning.”

Janet Barret warned against bleach, advocating instead for citric acid: “Bleach can be the reason why you are getting permanent stains. I wash my toilet with citric acid or a mixture of citric acid, water and washing liquid.”