How to Clean a Tea Kettle (and Remove Limescale)

What that white buildup actually is

Limescale is mostly calcium and magnesium carbonate left behind as hard water evaporates or boils. It's harmless to drink in small amounts but it does affect flavor, and heavy buildup can slow your kettle's heating element over time.

The vinegar method

Fill the kettle halfway with equal parts white vinegar and water. Bring it to a boil, then let it sit off the heat for 20–30 minutes so the acid has time to loosen the mineral deposits.

Pour it out, then rinse and boil plain water two or three times to clear any vinegar smell before using the kettle for tea again.

• Mix equal parts white vinegar and water
• Boil, then let sit 20–30 minutes
• Pour out and scrub any remaining spots with a soft brush
• Boil and discard plain water 2–3 times to rinse

Using citric acid instead

A tablespoon of citric acid powder dissolved in a full kettle of water works the same way as vinegar but without the smell. It's a common choice for electric kettles used daily, since the descaling can be quicker and needs less rinsing.

Preventing buildup

Using filtered water reduces how fast limescale forms in the first place. Emptying the kettle after each use rather than letting water sit and evaporate also slows mineral buildup considerably.