Q. How should I clean the jet outlets of my whirlpool bath? The whirlpool function isn¹t used that often, but the dark, crusty nozzle-ends look horrid.

A. Whirlpool baths can be difficult to clean, and the outlets can get crusty with limescale, which in turn can attract dirt. First check with the manufacturers whether they recommend a particular cleaner. It sounds, though, as if you¹ve had a good go at trying to remove the deposits yourself, so if all else fails, try Whirlpool Maxus from Giardino (01952 820061; www.giardino.co.uk), £11.95 for 500ml, enough for two applications.

Run the bath, add the fluid, then leave overnight to degrease and descale bath and pipes. Do this twice-yearly. Giardino also makes Whirlpool Clear (£10.50 for 500ml), a maintenance cleaner that removes the build-up of deposits such as soap, shampoo and hair ­ use this every four to six weeks.

The other problem is the growth of potentially harmful bacteria inside the pipes ­ you should sterilise at least once a week. Either use a product such as Whirlpool Crystal (£3.75 for 20 tablets), again from Giardino, or fill the bath and add a cupful of mild sterilising liquid such as Milton. Switch on the jets for five minutes then empty the bath, refill with clean water and circulate for a further five minutes to rinse. Note: Giardino delivers free on orders above £30 (or £20 if online), otherwise, p&p is £3.95 per order. One last thing: towel-drying the bath after use will hold back limescale deposits.

Q. In the pursuit of whiter whites I tried to buy Biotex recently, but couldn't find it. It's turned into a quest — can you help?

A. I wonder which type you're after, as there are two: Stain Removing Powder (a pre-soaker that removes dirt and grime and brightens whites) and Super Spray (pre-wash stain remover). I've spoken to the UK distributor and they assure me neither has been discontinued. Sure, the spray has limited distribution and is available only at the Co-op and a few independents — sorry, they couldn't be more specific. The powder is at all the major supermarkets, including Asda, Tesco, Sainsbury's, Waitrose, Co-op, Wilkinsons and Morrisons. However, it may not be in every branch, which may explain why you're still looking.

Aggie MacKenzie co-presents How Clean is Your House? Send your questions for publication to aggie.mackenzie@thetimes.co.uk

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