Persistent toilet scale: understanding the causes and learning effective cleaning techniques

Toilet bowls are frequently seen to be covered in limescale. This is because they are consistently subjected to water and various bacteria. In many cases, a descaler is sufficient to remove this. Regular cleaning is necessary to prevent such scenarios from arising in the future. Yet, what happens when the scale surfaces near the flush outlet, making it difficult to clear?

The water diverted towards the sewage system typically contains high levels of hardness, substantial amounts of mineral salts such as calcium, iron, magnesium, and manganese. If the bowl isn't cleansed on a regular basis, these accumulated salts start to transform into scale, making it increasingly challenging to remove over time.

As a best practice, it's recommended to fill the toilet bowl with WC cleaning fluid every other day, preferably leaving it overnight. In doing so, all contaminants and deposits will be consistently removed, thus averting the build-up of scale in the future.

Occasionally, a slightly yellowish deposit can surface on the back wall of the toilet bowl. These are typically linear stains that extend downwards. If these have appeared in your toilet despite routine cleaning, it could indicate a leaky flush. But why does this occur?

More often than not, the scale residue builds up inside the flush, blocking the complete closure of the valve. It’s possible that the issue doesn’t lie with the valve itself but with the gasket. When covered with limescale, it may not entirely seal as it should.

Fortunately, tackling limescale in your flush is easily achievable. Start by opening up the flush and closing off the water intake valve. Next, combine an entire bottle of vinegar with two cups of warm water. Pour this mixture into the valve and leave it to work for 20 minutes. Afterward, close the flush, reactivate the valve, and flush the water through. The end result should present no trace of limescale or remaining streaks.