When water contains too much dissolved minerals, it becomes hard - and it can also make your life a bit harder.
Though you can't always fix this problem easily, you can minimize its effects.
Here are some ways of how this water affects your everyday life.
Mineral deposits
Hard water leaves behind white or off-white mineral deposits on faucets, showerheads, and other surfaces that come into contact with water.
These deposits can be difficult to remove and may require special cleaning agents.
Soap scum
Hard water reacts with soap to form a sticky residue known as soap scum.
This scum can build up on bathroom fixtures, shower walls, and bathtub surfaces, making cleaning more challenging.
Difficulties in lathering
Hard water makes it harder to produce a rich lather with soap or shampoo.
Instead, it tends to form a less effective and less satisfying foam.
Dry and itchy skin
Hard water can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness, irritation, and itching.
It may also affect the effectiveness of moisturizers and other skincare products.
Stiff and scratchy laundry
Clothes washed in hard water may feel stiff, scratchy, or less soft.
Hard water can also cause colors to fade and make fabrics appear dull over time.