Did you think you would pay a high price to have a truly effective household product? Studies prove that the more expensive versions are not necessarily better.
Do you regularly buy household cleaners for more than 3 euros, convinced of their superior effectiveness? These popular supermarket products have a secret: they often cost 10 times more than a simple 0.35 euro alternative, with comparable results. Independent tests conducted by UFC-Que Choisir and 60 Million Consumers have verified it.
UFC-Que Choisir evaluated 14 common anti-limescale sprays and most were found to be equivalent to a basic solution for dissolving scale, removing soap residue or limiting streaks. Only one product, from the Cillit Bang brand, does slightly better, but the others don’t really stand out. 60 Million Consumers confirms on 119 products: effectiveness is based on simple principles – basic acids such as acetic or citric – despite unnecessary additives. Perfumes, foams and dyes just add to the cost and the risks (skin or respiratory irritations) without boosting effectiveness.
A reader of the UFC study summed it up well: “It’s money wasted down the drain!” The figures speak for themselves: 0.35 euros/liter for the economical alternative, compared to 2.80 euros for a private label anti-limescale product and up to 14 euros for the premium versions. Fortunately, the equally effective solution exists in all supermarkets: white vinegar (or powdered citric acid). Why does it work so well? Its acetic acid dissolves limescale in the same way as the acids in commercial products, provided that the key exposure time is respected. It takes 15 to 30 minutes for thick deposits, using it pure; or diluted in equal parts for regular maintenance of taps, showers, toilets or kettles. After rubbing, the result is professional, economical and ecological.
Note that on marble or limestone, it is however recommended to opt for a specific product to avoid acid attack. Furthermore, “premium” gels stick better vertically, but it’s not insurmountable with a simple sprayer.
In conclusion, these specific anti-limescale cleaners, stars of the shelves, do not justify their extra cost for most households: white vinegar offers the same results at a fraction of the price. You have been warned.
