To clean a kettle effectively, a common and recommended method is to use a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar. Fill the kettle halfway with this mixture, bring it to a boil, then let it sit for 15-20 minutes to break down any limescale buildup. After soaking, pour out the mixture, rinse the kettle thoroughly with fresh water, and boil a fresh batch of water to remove any vinegar taste. This method is natural, effective, and helps keep the kettle running efficiently.
Additional tips include:
- For regular cleaning, wash the inside with soapy water and rinse, but never submerge the entire kettle or put it in the dishwasher, especially for electric kettles with electrical components.
- Lemon juice or citric acid can also be used by boiling a mixture of water and lemon juice, then letting it sit before rinsing.
- Baking soda is another cleaning option: add 1-2 teaspoons to water, boil, let sit, then rinse.
- Clean the filter (if your kettle has one) by removing and rinsing it under running water.
Overall, vinegar or lemon juice methods are the most popular for descaling and cleaning kettles naturally and effectively.
