Washer Limestone Build-Up

Limestone, technically called calcium carbonate, is caused by a reaction between the calcium in hard water and the sodium carbonate in detergent.

Recommended methods to reduce limestone build-up:

• Use a liquid detergent
• Install a home water softener, which will significantly reduce limestone build-up.
• Use a packaged non-precipitating water softener

Secondary methods: The following methods have a limited benefit and will only delay the formation of the limestone deposits.

• Use hotter wash water; for example 125 degrees F. (57 degrees C.) For cottons, this also improves oily-soil removal.
• Add detergent and allow the washer to fill and agitate for three and four minutes to dissolve detergent before adding the clothes.

How to partially restore clothes: Soak the clothes in a solution of two cups of vinegar and one gallon of hot tap water for 15 minutes. Be sure to use a plastic container. Then wash the clothes in the washer using regular detergent.

Note: Do not use the vinegar soak solution in the washer. The acidic action on the vinegar may damage a porcelain tub.The vinegar soak solution may reduce the wrinkle resistance of permanent press fabrics and/or damage the dyes in some fabrics.