How vinegar and citric acid can save your kettle from limescale
Limescale buildup in a kettle is an issue that many of us encounter. How can you effectively descale a kettle without resorting to chemicals? Utilize a product you already have in your kitchen.
Limescale in the kettle is troublesome for many household members. Uncontrolled buildup affects the appearance of the device and the taste of the water we boil in it. Ignoring the problem can lead to more serious malfunctions, such as heater damage. To prevent kettle failure, you can use vinegar to clean it.
Vinegar is a well-known food product, but its use extends far beyond cooking. It is an effective alternative to chemical descalers available in stores, which not only cost more but also often leave an unpleasant odour in the kettle.
Why does limescale form in the kettle?
Hard water is the main cause of limescale in kettles. When water boils, it precipitates mineral components such as calcium and magnesium. These substances settle on the kettle's walls and heater, creating a hard layer that is difficult to remove with regular cleaning.
Vinegar is one of the most accessible and inexpensive agents for cleaning surfaces and appliances. Its acidic properties make it great for dissolving lime deposits. To clean the kettle, mix vinegar and water in a 1:1 ratio. Boil the solution in the kettle and leave it for a few hours.
After this time, pour out the solution and rinse the kettle thoroughly with water. This will remove the remaining limescale and vinegar, restoring your device's cleanliness and efficiency. Importantly, this method is effective and safe for your health, so you won't need to worry about it negatively affecting the taste of your beverages.
To enhance the descaling effect, you can add a bit of citric acid to the mixture. This natural cleaning agent, known for its descaling properties, perfectly complements the action of vinegar.
By adding citric acid, you improve cleaning effectiveness and neutralise the smell of vinegar. After adding citric acid, descal the kettle in the manner described above.
