Ruined chrome mixer taps: what to do?

Periodic cleaning of the mixers is necessary to avoid the formation of limescale deposits which can compromise the correct functioning of the tap as well as the aesthetics.

Limescale that can deposit on taps is the natural result of water with a high concentration of minerals such as calcium, magnesium and iron, known as hard water: hard water carries these minerals dissolved in it through the system domestic plumber and, as the water evaporates, it releases the minerals that can accumulate on the taps, giving rise to annoying encrustations.

Limescale encrustations, if not treated promptly, can irreparably damage the chrome plating of the taps and, consequently, it is advisable to intervene as soon as possible to solve the problem.

As in most cases, prevention is often better than cure. To keep the mixers free of limescale, it is a good habit to dry the water before it evaporates, preventing it from depositing.

Limescale incrustation, in fact, occurs when water with excessive hardness is left to evaporate, therefore the first method to avoid this problem is precisely to not let it rest: remember to dry the bathroom or kitchen mixer with a clean cloth after each use to always have clean and shiny taps.

Tricks to clean ruined chrome faucets

Let's start from an assumption: all the mixers of the best brands on the market have instructions for use inside the package which also include the list of products to be used (but above all NOT to be used) for the daily cleaning of the taps.

A natural and effective method to clean chrome faucets is white vinegar.

Hot white vinegar is an excellent natural descaler without any side effects: it is sufficient to disassemble the various damaged parts of the tap and soak them in hot vinegar for about twenty minutes to make sure that the limescale dissolves and the chrome returns to shine.

If the incrustation is very advanced and does not allow you to disassemble the various parts of the tap, it is possible to immerse some cloths in hot white vinegar and bandage the tap with them: leaving the bandage in place, the outermost part of the limestone will dissolve and it will then be possible to disassemble the mixer.

Alternatively, it is possible to create a "do-it-yourself abrasive paste" by mixing ordinary baking soda with a few drops of vinegar or lemon and cleaning the tap using an old toothbrush.

In addition to grandma's methods for removing limescale deposits, there are also specific products and detergents for quickly removing all encrustations.

On Acquaclick you will find an entire section dedicated to professional products for cleaning taps: one of the best sellers is the Citrus professional cleaner by Faren. Try it on your chrome!

If, on the other hand, you want to completely renew the look of your bathroom, discover our section dedicated to taps.