If your faucet is covered with a white coating, a “beard” of salts appears on the spout, and the shower head begins to leak like a drip, do not rush to call a plumber or buy a new one. The problem is not the quality of the metal, but the hard water and soap residues. You can fix this in 20 minutes using products that are already under your sink.
Here are four proven ways to get your chrome sparkling again like the day it was installed.
Method number 1: vinegar and cotton wool
Soak a cotton pad in 9% vinegar and wrap it around the faucet spout or individual shower nozzles. Secure with an elastic band and leave for 30–40 minutes. Vinegar will dissolve limescale even in the smallest holes. After this, rinse with water and wipe dry with a soft cloth.
Method number 2: citric acid and a bag
Place 2 teaspoons of citric acid in a small plastic bag and add 50 ml of warm water. Dip the shower head into it and secure the bag with a rubber band. Leave for 1 hour. Then rinse and blot dry.
Method number 3: baking soda paste for rust
Mix baking soda with a little water to form a thick paste. Apply to rust stains and scrub gently with a soft toothbrush. Rinse it off. The baking soda will gently polish the surface without scratching the chrome.
Method number 4: steam for shine
Boil water with a slice of lemon. Apply the faucet spout to the steam for 1–2 minutes. Then wipe with microfiber, the chrome will immediately gain depth and reflection, just like in a boutique.
These methods are suitable for chrome, nickel and matte surfaces. The main thing is to never use steel wool, abrasive powders or hard sponges, as they leave micro-scratches in which plaque accumulates faster.
