If your kettle is taking ages to boil water and you have noticed strange stains at the bottom of the pot, then you likely have a limescale problem. Limescale is the leftover minerals from water evaporating that harden over time, making it tricky to remove without scrubbing for ages.

Jenn, the founder of Mom’s Budget, has shared that an easy way to clean your kettle is to use the “the simplest of household ingredients.” She said: “We have not one, but two incredibly easy, budget-friendly, and effective methods to restore your kettle to its former glory using just lemon or vinegar.” 

Limescale will begin to break down if exposed to heat and an acidic substance, which is why kitchen ingredients such as white vinegar and lemon juice are great natural cleaners.

White vinegar contains acetic acid, while lemon juice contains citric acid, which will react to calcium carbonate, which is the main mineral that makes up limescale. 

The stains will loosen and dissolve by themselves without having to scrub at the kettle or use a harsh chemical product. 

It should be noted that white vinegar has a very strong taste, and it may take a few rinses to remove it completely from your kettle. Many people prefer to use lemon juice, which is less pungent but just as effective at removing limescale. 

Jenn said: “Whether you choose the fresh, zesty path of lemon or the robust, all-purpose power of vinegar, you’re guaranteed a clean, efficient kettle ready to serve your next cup of perfection.”

How to naturally clean a kettle and remove limescale stains 

If you use a lemon, roll the fruit onto your kitchen counter, as the pressure will help loosen the juice. Then, cut the lemon, fill the kettle halfway and add both halves to the kettle. 

If you use white vinegar, simply fill your kettle halfway with water and add roughly 240ml of white vinegar. 

Turn on your kettle and let the water boil. Once ready, leave the kettle alone to let the solution sit for at least 30 minutes to break down the limescale. 

When the time is up, pour the water away and use a sponge or scrubbing brush to gently wipe the inside of your kettle. The limescale should break away easily, leaving your kettle sparkling clean. 

If you use a lemon, simply rinse the kettle under the tap to remove any remaining residue. If you use white vinegar, fill the kettle up again and pour the boiled water away, which should help remove any vinegar smells.

Make sure to clean your kettle every few months. Limescale can only build up if left untouched for a long time. If it grows over the heating element, it can eventually break the kettle.