How do I remove limescale from a kettle?

To remove limescale from your kettle effectively, you can use common household ingredients. The most reliable method is using white vinegar or citric acid.

Method 1: White Vinegar

1. Fill: Mix a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water. Fill the kettle until the scale is covered.
2. Boil: Bring the mixture to a boil.
3. Soak: Once it boils, turn the kettle off and let it sit for at least an hour (or overnight for heavy buildup).
4. Rinse: Pour the solution out and rinse the kettle thoroughly with fresh water.
5. Clear the smell: Boil a kettle of plain fresh water and discard it to remove any lingering vinegar scent.

Method 2: Citric Acid (Recommended for heavy buildup)

1. Fill: Fill the kettle with water and bring it to a boil.
2. Add: Add 1–2 tablespoons of citric acid powder to the hot water.
3. Soak: Let it sit for 15–30 minutes. You will often see the scale fizzing and breaking down.
4. Rinse: Pour it out and rinse thoroughly with clean water.

Tips

• Avoid scratching: Do not use metal scourers or sharp objects inside the kettle, as these can damage the heating element or the kettle lining.
• Frequency: If you live in a hard water area, repeating this process once a month will prevent thick scale from building up and help your kettle boil more efficiently.

If the kettle has a removable filter, take it out and soak it in a small bowl of the same vinegar solution to clean the mesh thoroughly.