Limescale, that pesky white residue, is no stranger to toilets, taps, washing machines and daily-used kettles.

In the scramble to banish kettle limescale, white vinegar has long reigned supreme in many households, credited for its gentle acid touch.

Both vinegar and lemons have been admired for their descaling prowess in kettles, with baking soda also a frequent mention.

However, when Sarah Permaul turned to the Mrs Hinch Cleaning Tips and Tricks online community for advice on ousting kettle limescale, enthusiasts suggested straying from the usual natural remedies.

Sarah queried the group: “Hi, does anyone have any tips on how to get rid of limescale from a kettle?”

She added: “It probably does not look that bad but it would be nice to remove it completely. I've already tried lemon juice and also the Oust descaler. Many thanks.”

While several users tabled white vinegar, its sharp aroma was a deal-breaker for others.

For those looking to ditch the potent fragrance but still nab top-notch results, citric acid emerged as a fan favourite.

Sharing her wisdom, Paula Henderson said: “Just add a tablespoon of citric acid, boil the kettle and leave a while, works 100 percent every time and leaves no aftertaste or smell.”

Vanessa Birch weighed in: “Tablespoon of citric acid straight into the just boiled water and the limescale goes instantly.”

Meanwhile, Jen Sarah provided a quick tutorial: “Boil water, add one or two tablespoons of citric acid, and leave until limescale is removed. Takes no time at all.”

Sumaiya Ghumra shared a handy tip: “A tablespoon of citric acid and add water and boil. Lovely clean kettle every time and no smell.”

Mehtap Dew endorsed the method, saying: “Citric acid is a great one to use. I put about two tablespoons in and boil it and the whole thing disappears in under two minutes.”

Baaba Amissah offered step-by-step guidance: “Add a tablespoon of citric acid or two to a full kettle of water. Boil, then let it sit for a few minutes and rinse with cold water. This completely removes any residue of the citric acid so the kettles are good as new. Do this monthly to keep a very clean kettle.”

Dawn Dreyer also vouched for the technique: “Citric acid in a full kettle and boil, will look like a new kettle.”