Limescale buildup in toilets is a common and frustrating problem, especially in areas with hard water. Over time, thick, crusty deposits can form in the bowl, resisting even the most aggressive of commercial cleaners and trending internet hacks. While products promising instant results are abundant, many fail to deliver on their claims.

A surprisingly yet effective and completely free method has emerged that skips the chemicals altogether. One such technique involves scooping out the water from the toilet bowl with a ladle or container, then using a blunt table knife or other non-sharp item to gently chip away at the buildup.

Instead of relying on bleach, vinegar, baking soda, or other cleaning agents and products, some have had success by physically removing limescale using simple tools.

When done carefully, the limescale breaks off in chunks, revealing a clean surface underneath.

Afterward, any used tools should be sanitised with boiling water and a small amount of bleach.

To finish the job, a bit of bleach can also be poured into the bowl to reach areas that are difficult to access manually.

One person wrote on Quora: "I scooped out the water from my toilet with a ladle. Got a table knife and started to chip away at it. It broke off in chunks and was strangely therapeutic. After a few minutes it was spotless again.

"I washed the implements in boiling water and a spot of bleach, the poured some bleach into the toilet to attack the bits I couldn't get an angle at. Before my partner came home, I flushed the toilet and she was stunned."

This method is ideal for those seeking a low-cost, immediate solution using items most people already have at home.