Citric acid is a surprisingly powerful natural cleaner. Popular in Europe, this versatile product is great for removing limescale, hard water stains and mineral buildup. “Citric acid can descale an electric kettle, remove spots from glass and even shine up stainless-steel sinks,” says Sofia Martinez, cleaning expert and owner of Sparkly Maid Austin.

It’s inexpensive, too, and safe for use on most surfaces. Read on for some of the best ways to use citric acid around the house, with expert-backed tips from professional cleaners Martinez, Enrique Gonzalez of Seattle Green Cleaning Fairy and Terry Klymkiv of Alpha Cleaning Company.

What Is Citric Acid?

Citric acid is a naturally occurring acid found in citrus fruits, that can also be manufactured for use as a preservative, food ingredient and cleaning agent.…