Why Citric Acid Works
Citric acid dissolves calcium, magnesium, and iron deposits that form during boiling. Unlike abrasive cleaners, it:
Removes scale without scratching
Protects the heating plate and sensors
Leaves no harmful residue
Is suitable for stainless steel, glass, and plastic kettles
What You Need
Citric acid powder
Clean water
Soft cloth or sponge
Step-by-Step Cleaning Method
Step 1: Fill the kettle
Fill the kettle halfway with clean water.
Make sure the water level is above the minimum fill mark.
Step 2: Add Citric Acid
Add:
1–2 teaspoons of citric acid per liter of water
Use the higher amount if scale is thick or hardened.
Step 3: Boil
Turn the kettle on and let it boil until it shuts off automatically.
This activates the descaling process directly on the heating plate.
Step 4: Soak
Leave the hot solution inside the kettle for 15–30 minutes.
Soaking allows citric acid to penetrate and loosen mineral buildup.
Step 5: Empty and Rinse
Carefully pour out the solution.
Rinse the kettle thoroughly with clean water 2–3 times.
If residue remains, repeat the process instead of scrubbing.
Step 6: Final Clean-Water Boil
Fill the kettle with fresh water, boil once, and discard the water.
This removes any remaining acid taste or residue.
Cleaning the Heating Plate (If Needed)
After soaking:
Wipe gently with a soft cloth or sponge
Do not scrape or use abrasive pads
Scratches increase future scale buildup and reduce heating efficiency.
How Often to Clean With Citric Acid
| Water Quality | Cleaning Frequency |
|---|---|
| Soft or filtered water | Every 4–6 weeks |
| Normal tap water | Every 2–4 weeks |
| Hard water | Every 1–2 weeks |
Clean sooner if boiling becomes louder or slower.
What Not To Do
Do not use steel wool or metal brushes
Do not use bleach or harsh chemical cleaners
Do not immerse the kettle base in water
Do not mix citric acid with other cleaners
These can damage surfaces or internal components.
Tips to Prevent Future Scale
Empty the kettle after each use
Do not leave water inside overnight
Air-dry with the lid open
Use filtered water if possible
Preventive care reduces the need for frequent deep cleaning.
Conclusion
To clean an electric kettle with citric acid, boil a diluted citric acid solution, let it soak, rinse thoroughly, and finish with a clean-water boil. This method safely restores heating efficiency, reduces noise, improves taste, and extends the kettle’s service life without damaging the appliance.