Limescale, a mineral deposit mainly composed of calcium carbonate with a chalky or crusty appearance, can seriously hamper the performance of household appliances, especially kettles.

This pesky substance is more prevalent in areas with hard water and loves to cling to the heating elements inside kettles, causing them to work harder and take longer to boil water.

Even kettles with hidden elements aren’t safe from limescale's grip, as they can build up at the bottom and slow down boiling times.

Jo Besant, who was fed up with her workplace’s refusal to replace their limescale-laden kettle, shared her success story on the Mrs Hinch Army Cleaning Tips Facebook group.

She posted before and after photos of the now immaculate kettle, praising citric acid for its instant limescale-busting magic: “So this is the kettle at my work, they won’t buy a new one.

“Before and after pics - citric acid is defo a winner. Limescale disappeared in under two minutes. The kettle boils so much faster now.”

Citric acid powder has become a go-to solution for its affordability, effectiveness, and ease of use.

The simple method involves boiling water with a couple of tablespoons of the powder and then rinsing the kettle.

Maxine Taoka, another member of the Mrs Hinch fan community, agreed with Jo’s findings, commenting: “Citric acid works wonders on kettles.”

One user explained: “I work in a lab, and we use it for our industrial water still and our kettle in the office. You can buy boxes of it in Wilko, and I’m sure I’ve seen it in Poundland too.

“Boil the kettle, add half a box and it dissolves all the limescale in 15 minutes. Stuff a bit of kitchen roll soaked in the solution for the spout. Remove the filter and chuck it in the main kettle as it works.”

Anna Witowska agreed, saying: “Citric acid - natural and no chemicals. Works better than anything I've tried.”

Bethany Hickman posted: “Add a little citric acid and some water and boil. It comes up brand new. Worked a treat for my glass kettle.”

Express.co.uk have tested this citric acid kettle cleaning tip and found it to be highly effective.

Compared to baking soda and white vinegar, citric acid worked significantly faster. Additionally, unlike white vinegar, this hack leaves no lingering smell.