Do you own an electric kettle that makes your food preparation and everyday beverage consumption easier? If yes, you must have wondered how to upkeep its quality and maintain its functioning in the best ways? Moreover, if you have ever doubted whether your method of cleaning the electric kettle was fine or was doing more damage to the appliance, we are to resolve all your queries.
An electric kettle is nothing short of an investment – a must-have kitchen appliance for all types of homes and family sizes. There are several advantages of using a kettle – such as its quick boiling functionality, allowing you to cook different meals in a few minutes, low energy consumption compared to traditional gas stoves, and safety for everyone to use. With such a super-convenient appliance, there comes the basic responsibility of cleaning it well to ensure it works well in the long run and the food you cook using it also is safe for consumption. Through this detailed guide, let us share some tips for cleaning your electric kettle.
Why Should You Clean Your Electric Kettle?
First things first! Many people think that since we boil water all the time at high temperatures in our kettles, it is sufficient to kill all the germs accumulated. However, that is not the case. Over a period of time, with regular use, the interiors of an electric kettle can collect mineral deposits, especially if your region gets a supply of hard water. These deposits, also called limescale, can not only degrade the taste of your water but also slow down the kettle’s ability to heat the water. By regular cleaning, you can prevent buildup, ensure that the electric kettle works efficiently, and keep your drinks clean and fresh. Also, regular cleaning of your kettle ensures you prevent discoloration, spots, and damage to the heating elements. Moreover, for kettles made from stainless steel, you can prolong the shiny finish and polish the exterior to maintain its modern look and complement your kitchen decor.
6 Tips to Clean and Maintain Your Electric Kettle
Follow these tips to thoroughly clean your electric kettle over regular periods:
- Unplug the Kettle: Never clean the eclectic kettle while it is plugged, as it can cause serious electrical hazards. Safely turn off the device, and unplug the kettle before you begin the cleaning process.
- Empty the Kettle: Get rid of any remaining constituents of food or beverages in the kettle. Allowing them to sit in the kettle for longer durations can lead to stagnancy and the build-up of microorganisms.
- Make a Vinegar Solution: Take equal parts of white vinegar and water and let it sit in the electric kettle for about 30 minutes. This will help remove the accumulated limescale, making it convenient for you to clean the kettle.
- Boil the Vinegar Solution: After allowing it to sit for about half an hour, plug the kettle and bring it to a boil. Once the solution is boiled, unplug the kettle and let it cool to loosen any tough deposits.
- Rinse the Kettle: Remove the solution from the kettle and rinse it thoroughly several times to clean off any vinegar residue.
- Wipe the Exterior: Use a soft and slightly damp cloth to wipe the kettle’s exterior, removing any spills or stains.
How to Descale Your Electric Kettle?
Descaling refers to the removal of mineral deposits, primarily calcium and magnesium, which build up inside the kettle due to regular use, especially when water is hard. These deposits negatively affect the kettle’s functionality and even cause overheating. If left untreated, limescale build-up can impact the kettle’s water heating ability, causing the kettle to take a longer time to boil water and increase its energy consumption. Descale your kettle using commercial descaling solutions available on the market, or make natural alternatives at home with common household items like vinegar or citric acid, as shared in the tips above.
Vinegar Method: Fill the kettle with equal parts water and vinegar. Let it sit for 30 minutes, then boil and rinse thoroughly. Describe your electric kettle every few months based on the hardness of the water in your area. If you observe a white film forming inside the kettle or if the water is taking quite longer than usual to boil, it is your sign to descale. Regular descaling can prevent mineral buildup, help improve the electric kettle’s performance, and extend its lifespan.
Final Thoughts
It is best to deep clean your electric kettle with a vinegar solution and all safety precautions once every month or more frequently based on how often you use it, what beverages or food you cook in it, your family size, the quality of water in your locality, etc. If your area gets a supply of hard water, it means that the water will have a high level of minerals, leading to quicker limescale buildup. Cleaning your electric kettle regularly can maintain its efficiency and extend its lifespan.
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