We’ve all been there.
You wake up in the morning and decide to make a nice cup of tea or coffee before you go off to work.
After heating your water in the kettle, you pour it into your mug and take a sip…. but ugh! It tastes metallic. What gives?
If you can relate, then this article is for you.
I’ll be teaching you how to clean and descale your electric kettle by using baking soda.
Let’s begin.
What you’ll need:
Baking soda
Water
Brush or scrub sponge
Any shallow container
Spoon
Steps:
Step 1. Check if the electric kettle is cool and unplugged. Safety first always.
Step 2. Make the paste. Combine a tablespoon of baking soda with a tablespoon of water. Mix well.
Step 3. Dip the brush in the baking soda paste and start brushing the inside of the kettle. If the opening of the kettle is narrow and you’re having a hard time getting the right angle with the brush, use a scrub sponge. Focus on removing the limescale and stains.
Step 4. Rinse the inside of the kettle with water. Proceed to the next step.
Step 5. Put 1 tablespoon of baking soda for every liter of water inside the kettle and boil. Then, let it sit for 20-30 minutes. This should remove any remaining limescale.
Step 6. Drain the hot water and rinse. Make sure you remove all the traces of baking soda.
Step 7. Test by boiling water. If the water comes out still tasting metallic, repeat the steps. If it comes out tasting as it should, then you’re done.
5 Electric Kettle Maintenance Tips
- Avoid using highly abrasive products when cleaning parts made from stainless steel. They can leave scratches.
- Dry the outside of your electric kettle after each use.
- Deep clean the electric kettle before any weird taste and odors set in. Clean it at least once every 3 to 4 weeks.
- For the outside of your kettle, just use some water mixed with a few drops of dish soap and give it a good wash. Rinse it with water afterward. Dry it, and you’re good to go.
- Never let the water reach the heating element and electrical parts of the kettle.
Conclusion:
Electric kettles are one of the most neglected appliances in our daily lives. If you clean it regularly and descale it with baking soda, you can get many more years out of it.
I hope that you try out this method of cleaning your electric kettle.
If you’re looking for other ways to use baking soda around the kitchen, check my article on how to clean a burnt pan with baking soda.
Thank you for reading.
-Baking Soda Guy
Top Photo by an_vision on Unsplash
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Regarding Cleaning and Descaling an Electric Kettle with Baking Soda:
- Can I use vinegar instead of baking soda to descale my electric kettle? Yes, vinegar is also an effective descaling agent for electric kettles. You can use a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar to remove limescale and mineral deposits from the kettle. Follow the same steps as with baking soda, but instead of making a baking soda paste, use the vinegar-water mixture.
- How often should I clean and descale my electric kettle? The frequency of cleaning and descaling depends on the hardness of your water and how often you use the kettle. If you have hard water, which tends to have more mineral deposits, it’s advisable to clean and descale the kettle at least once every 1 to 2 months. If you have soft water, you may be able to clean it less frequently, such as every 2 to 3 months.
- Can I use lemon juice instead of vinegar or baking soda to descale my electric kettle? Yes, lemon juice can also be used as a natural descaler for electric kettles. The citric acid in lemon juice helps break down limescale. Simply fill the kettle with water and add the juice of one or two lemons. Boil the solution, let it sit for 20-30 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
- Can I use the same baking soda paste to clean the exterior of the electric kettle? The baking soda paste mentioned in the article is primarily intended for cleaning the interior of the kettle. While baking soda is a gentle abrasive, it’s best to use a mixture of water and a few drops of dish soap for cleaning the exterior of the kettle. Avoid using abrasive pads or harsh chemicals, as they may damage the finish.
Additional Electric Kettle Maintenance Tips:
- Is it safe to immerse the electric kettle in water during cleaning? No, never immerse the entire electric kettle in water during cleaning, especially when the kettle is plugged in. Water and electricity are a dangerous combination. Focus on cleaning the interior and avoid getting water near the heating element or electrical parts.
- What should I do if my electric kettle has a foul smell or taste after cleaning? If your electric kettle has a lingering foul smell or taste after cleaning, try repeating the descaling process with baking soda or vinegar. You can also boil a solution of water and lemon juice to help neutralize any remaining odors.
Descaling Alternatives:
- Can I use commercial descaling solutions instead of natural remedies like baking soda or vinegar? Yes, commercial descaling solutions are available in the market and are specifically designed to remove limescale and mineral deposits from electric kettles. They can be effective and convenient alternatives to natural remedies.
Safety Precautions:
- Do I need to wear gloves when cleaning the electric kettle with baking soda? While baking soda is generally safe to use, wearing gloves can be a good practice, especially if you have sensitive skin. It can help protect your hands from any irritation that may occur when handling the baking soda paste.
General Kettle Care:
- Can I use the electric kettle to boil other liquids besides water? The electric kettle is primarily designed for boiling water. It’s not recommended to boil other liquids in the kettle, as they may leave residues or damage the interior.
Storage and Maintenance:
- How should I store my electric kettle when not in use? Store your electric kettle in a clean, dry, and well-ventilated area. Avoid storing it near heat sources or in humid environments.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for general guidance and should not replace specific manufacturer recommendations or safety guidelines for your electric kettle. Always refer to the user manual and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and maintenance.
