Royal cleaning expert shares 10-minute trick for sparkling taps using a 90p item
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A seasoned cleaner with a decade-long background at Buckingham Palace has revealed a top tip for polishing taps without resorting to harsh chemicals or expensive sprays.
Chatting with bathroom and kitchen gurus at Plumbworld, Berkshire's own Anne Simmons, aged 57, shared her trust in an easily obtainable, economical kitchen staple that won't break the bank, often costing under £1.
Anne recounted the Palace's cleaning mantra: "We never had anything fancy. It was just always about working with what we had," shedding light on their simple yet tried-and-tested approach.
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The ex-royal staffer's secret is as straightforward as it gets: "White vinegar was our go-to. You just soak a cloth in it, wrap it around the tap, and leave it for 10 to 15 minutes."
Following this method, Anne says, effectively "cuts through" limescale, leaving taps looking wonderfully shiny, reports the Mirror.
She emphasised the importance of a light touch, advocating a final buff with a microfibre cloth for that regal sheen.
Highlighting white vinegar's natural properties, Anne noted, "White vinegar is naturally acidic, which helps dissolve mineral deposits without damaging the finish."
Anne praised this pantry staple as a thrifty substitute for proprietary cleaners, positing: "Because it's something many people already have in their cupboards, it's a cost-effective alternative to specialist cleaners."
This budget-friendly hack works wonders on various finishes, including chrome, stainless steel, and brushed metals, she observed, although cautioning to consult the manufacturer's recommendations first for any coloured or custom coatings.
Wrapping up her insights, Anne demystified the palace's cleaning habits: "People often assume the royal household relies on luxury products for everything, but we relied on practical methods that delivered results, and that anyone can use."
To combat limescale in your home, soak a clean cloth in white vinegar, wrap it tightly around the tap, and leave it for 10 minutes to do its job.
"Wipe away residue with a damp cloth, and then dry and polish for extra shine."
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