How to descale a kettle
Quick answer: Fill the kettle halfway with equal parts water and white vinegar, or add a couple of teaspoons of citric acid to a full kettle of water. Boil it, leave it to soak for 20 to 30 minutes, pour it away, rinse well and boil fresh water twice, throwing it away each time.
In a hard water area, limescale builds up inside a kettle and on the element. It uses more electricity, can flake into your tea and shortens the kettle's life.
Descaling is a five-minute job that you can do every month or two.
What you will need
- White vinegar or citric acid powder
- Water
- A sponge or soft brush
- A clean cloth
Step by step
Unplug and empty it
Make sure the kettle is cool and unplugged. Empty out any water.
Add the descaling mix
Fill the kettle about halfway with a mix of half white vinegar and half water. Or fill it with water and add one to two tablespoons of citric acid.
Boil it
Plug it in and bring it to the boil. Then turn it off and unplug it.
Leave it to soak
Leave it for 20 to 30 minutes. For heavy scale, leave it longer, or overnight.
Pour it away and scrub
Pour the liquid down the sink. Use a soft brush or sponge to loosen any remaining flakes, and rinse out.
Rinse and boil twice
Fill with fresh water, boil, and discard. Do it twice to clear any taste of vinegar.
Clean the outside
Wipe the outside with a damp cloth and dry it. Never immerse the kettle or its base in water.
Tips
- Descale every month or two in a hard water area.
- A limescale filter in the spout can catch flakes, and a jug filter reduces how much builds up.
- Do not use a kettle with the element exposed to damaged scale.
Stop and get help if
- The element is corroded, the kettle leaks or the cable is damaged. Replace the kettle.
- The kettle does not switch off properly or smells of burning.
- Descaling with household products is fine, but do not mix vinegar with bleach or other cleaners.
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Common questions
Is vinegar or citric acid better for descaling?
Both work. Citric acid has less smell and is slightly gentler on rubber seals, while vinegar is easier to find. Rinse well after either.
How often should I descale my kettle?
In a hard water area, every month or two. In a soft water area, a few times a year.
Is limescale harmful?
It is not usually harmful, but it can flake into drinks, taste bad and makes the kettle less efficient.
More guides
Last reviewed 17 October 2026. This guide is general information for UK homes and is not a substitute for the manufacturer's instructions. If the job involves gas, mains wiring, asbestos, structural work or working at height, or you are unsure, ask a suitably qualified person.