Citric Acid in Washing Machine: A Practical Guide to Limescale Maintenance

Estimated reading time: 6 minutes

Limescale is one of the most common issues in washing machines, especially in areas with hard water. Over time, mineral deposits build up on the heating element and inside the pipes. As a result, the appliance can lose efficiency and unpleasant odours may develop.
Using citric acid in a washing machine is a simple and practical way to manage this problem. In fact, you can use it both for a descaling empty cycle and as a natural fabric softener, making it easy to include in your regular laundry routine.
In this guide, you’ll find clear instructions on how to use citric acid correctly, the right amounts to mix, and how often to apply it to keep your washing machine cleaner and more efficient over time.

Key Takeaways from This Article

• Citric acid is an effective natural solution for washing machine limescale maintenance.
• When used correctly, it helps dissolve mineral deposits on heating elements and internal pipes.
• It can be used both for empty wash cycles and as a natural fabric softener.
• Regular maintenance reduces residue, odours, and performance issues.
• Correct dilution matters, and citric acid should never be used pure on fabrics.

Why Washing Machines Build Up Limescale (and Why Early Action Matters)

Limescale forms when water contains high levels of calcium and magnesium. During wash cycles, especially at medium to high temperatures, these minerals settle inside the machine.

The most affected areas include:

• the heating element;
• internal pipes and water circuits;
• the bottom of the drum;
• seals and humid areas with poor ventilation.

When limescale builds up, the washing machine may become less efficient. For example, it may require more energy to heat the water. In addition, residue can collect and lead to unpleasant smells.

That’s why planned maintenance is always more effective than waiting until deposits become thick and stubborn.

Does Citric Acid Damage a Washing Machine?

This is one of the most common questions. The answer is simple: no, citric acid does not damage a washing machine when used correctly.

On the contrary, its descaling action helps keep internal parts cleaner, especially where limescale tends to build up more quickly.

However, two rules are essential:

• always use citric acid diluted in water;
• avoid excessive concentrations or incorrect use.

When applied properly, citric acid supports long-term washing machine care and helps maintain stable performance.

Citric Acid to Remove Limescale in the Washing Machine (Empty Cycle)

The most effective method to treat internal limescale is an empty wash cycle. This allows the solution to circulate through the system and reach areas that are difficult to clean manually.

Recommended Method

• dissolve 150 g of citric acid in 1 litre of water;
• pour the solution into the empty drum;
• run a short cycle at 40°C.

This treatment is ideal for periodic maintenance and helps prevent limescale from building up over time.

For best results, do not add laundry during this cycle.

Citric Acid as a Natural Fabric Softener in the Washing Machine

A very practical way to use citric acid is as a natural fabric softener. It is especially useful if you want softer laundry while also reducing mineral residue caused by hard water.

Recommended Method

• dissolve 40–50 g of citric acid in 1 litre of water;
• pour about 100 ml of the solution into the fabric softener compartment.

This method works well for regular maintenance because it fits easily into everyday washing routines.

Keep in mind: citric acid must never be used pure on fabrics, as it could damage them.

What Improves with Regular Washing Machine Maintenance?

When you treat your washing machine regularly with a proper descaling routine, you can expect real and progressive benefits.

In particular:

• limescale buildup on the heating element decreases;
• mineral residue inside the drum is reduced;
• stains, dullness, and film deposits become less common;
• the machine tends to keep more consistent performance.

Maintenance is not only about cleaning. Above all, it is about preventing future buildup.

How Often Should You Use Citric Acid in a Washing Machine?

The ideal frequency depends mainly on two factors:

• your local water hardness;
• how often you run wash cycles.

In general, periodic maintenance helps prevent deposits that are harder to remove later. A consistent routine works far better than occasional treatments once limescale is already layered.

Mistakes to Avoid

To get reliable results, it’s important to avoid common mistakes that reduce effectiveness or create problems.

Avoid:

• using citric acid without dilution;
• increasing the dose hoping for faster results;
• running unnecessary high-temperature cycles;
• skipping final rinsing or basic regular cleaning.

Effective maintenance always depends on consistency and controlled concentrations.

For Easier and More Consistent Maintenance

The real difference does not come from a single treatment. Instead, it comes from regular care. When you maintain your washing machine consistently, limescale has less time to build up. As a result, keeping the appliance efficient becomes much easier.

In this context, PURO ACIDO CITRICO is a practical solution for home maintenance. It is a water-soluble granular powder designed to prepare natural acidic solutions. It works well for both descaling empty cycles and use as a natural fabric softener.

Using a dedicated product makes maintenance more organised, controlled, and easier to repeat over time.

Conclusion

Washing machine descaling is not an occasional task. Instead, it is a routine maintenance practice that helps preserve the efficiency of the appliance over time. Acting before limescale becomes layered keeps internal components cleaner and ensures more consistent washing performance.

That is why it is important to use a product suitable for preparing solutions with controlled concentrations. PURO ACIDO CITRICO supports both descaling empty cycles and use as a natural fabric softener, simplifying washing machine maintenance with one practical solution.

With regular and mindful use, you can reduce limescale buildup and keep your washing machine running efficiently for longer.

Still Have Questions?

Marbec technical support can help you choose the correct method and the most suitable products for washing machine maintenance and limescale control. This way, you can find the most effective solution for your specific situation.
👉 Contact Marbec for qualified technical support.