Toilet limescale is a build-up of calcium and magnesium from hard water, which can be hard to remove. If left untreated, limescale can harden and lead to plumbing issues as well as being unsightly. It can build up in the bowl, around the rim or even under the seat.

Luckily, cleaning fans have taken to social media to share top tips on banishing limescale. Posting on the Mrs Hinch Cleaning Tips Facebook page, Lucy Robinson wrote: “I’ve tried scrubbing my toilet with bleach and some other household cleaners, but the limescale will not come off.

“Would anyone have any recommendations? The limescale is awful.” The post, along with a photo of the heavily stained toilet bowl, received more than 100 comments.

Laura Carter commented: “Black Harpic is really good if you leave it overnight and don’t use the toilet in this time.” This comment received more than 70 likes, as well as reactions from other group members, also recommending the product.

Lisa Evans said: “The bottle of black Harpic will make the limescale melt away in no time.”

Tracy Rogers noted: “Black Harpic works better than bleach; I’m a cleaner and it’s all I use in client homes.”

Harpic Power Plus Regular Toilet Cleaner Gel, also known to many cleaning fans as “black Harpic”, can be picked up from various supermarkets for as little as £1.50.

Its description reads: “10x better than bleach with 10 actions. Did you know that bleach disinfects but leaves limescale, home to germs, behind?

“Harpic Power Plus, with its unique formula, removes tough limescale and gets rid of germs, even the ones you cannot see.”

You’ll only need a small amount every time you clean the toilet, but if you’re looking for something even cheaper, white vinegar may also help to shift limescale.