There is nothing better than a cup of tea, but no one wants a chalky surprise in their mug which is why it is important to check your kettle for limescale.
Limescale is a chalk-like substance which is harmless but can affect the taste of a cup of tea and also damage the heating element of your kettle.
This can lead to you spending longer for a cuppa and also spending more money on your energy bills, but luckily the solution to getting rid of limescale is likely already stored away in your kitchen cupboard.
Emily Adams, a cleaning expert from the domestic service NW Maids has confirmed that it is “pretty easy” to descale a kettle as all it requires is white vinegar or lemon juice, a clean cloth and “some patience.”
She said: “Limescale is a complex, chalky deposit that can build up inside kettles and other household appliances over time. If left unchecked, limescale can cause your kettle to work less efficiently and break down completely.”
READ MORE: ‘Most effective’ method to remove ‘any unwanted’ kettle limescale in 15 minutes
How to remove limescale and descale your kettle
To begin, simply give your kettle a good rinse at the sink and then see if you have vinegar or lemon juice on hand.
Empty the kettle, fill it halfway with vinegar or lemon juice and water, then boil it.
Allow the mixture to sit in your kettle for a few hours. If the limescale is still there, repeat the process until the limescale is gone.
How long you should let the solution sit depends on how much limescale you have in your kettle.
Emily said: “If you have a lot of limescale build-up in your kettle, you may need to soak it in a vinegar and water solution overnight before scrubbing it with a brush to remove the stubborn deposits.”
Once you are sure the limescale is completely gone, rinse it thoroughly with fresh water and then wipe it down with a clean cloth.
