For many UK households, limescale build-up in the bathroom is a constant battle, especially on shower screens where water droplets leave behind cloudy, chalky marks. While white vinegar is a go-to for many, one cleaning expert suggests there’s another powerful product that works just as well – and sometimes even better.

Lee Keet, founder of Vapor Clean Ltd, said the key to staying ahead of limescale is cleaning consistency and the right approach. "The easiest way to tackle it is by wiping down your shower screen and fittings after every use," said Lee. That simple habit alone can stop water droplets from drying into limescale deposits that build up over time.

But for those looking to get rid of existing limescale quickly, Lee recommended citric acid as a powerful, natural solution.

"For quick and effective limescale removal, citric acid work wonders," he explained. "Spray it on, leave it for 10 to 15 minutes, and then scrub with a non-scratch pad."

Citric acid is a natural cleaning agent found in lemons, and it works by breaking down the mineral deposits without damaging the shower screen. It's especially useful for those who dislike the strong smell of white vinegar in their bathrooms.

For stubborn limescale that doesn’t budge, Lee said more advanced methods may be needed. "For tougher build-up, professional-grade descalers and steam cleaning are effective solutions," he said.

Steam softens the scale, making it easier to remove without harsh chemicals, which is a great option for glass shower screens. But what causes limescale in the first place? It’s all down to hard water, which is packed with minerals.

"Limescale is caused by hard water, which contains high levels of calcium and magnesium," Lee explained. "Most of the UK sits on limestone or chalk bedrock, making our water naturally harder."

This is why limescale shows up quickly on taps, kettles, and shower screens across the country. To reduce future build-up, Lee suggested installing a filtered shower head or water softener.

"Using a water softener or a filtered shower head can help slow down the build-up," he said.

A little daily maintenance can make a big difference; Lee recommended cleaning the shower screen as "part of your routine" for the best results.

So next time you see those white marks on your shower screen, skip the vinegar and reach for citric acid instead.

It’s an easy, affordable fix that keeps your bathroom sparkling – and limescale firmly at bay.