Think of resin as tiny, sponge-like beads that are obsessed with hardness minerals. They grab onto calcium and magnesium like a toddler grabbing a cookie—with pure, relentless enthusiasm. These beads are made of polystyrene (yes, the same stuff in disposable cups, but way cooler).
During the softening process, the resin swaps sodium ions for those hard-water nasties. It’s like a microscopic game of musical chairs, but with minerals instead of chairs. And the resin always wins.
