Limescale in kettles is a constant war households have to tackle, battling with the white, chalky deposits that cling to surfaces and persist without a good scrub down.
Although harmless to health and not dangerous to drink, limescale can tarnish your tea by affecting the taste of boiled water.
Not only does limescale mess with your brew, but it’s also a culprit in reducing the lifespan of your kettle by corroding its elements.
While chemically formulated limescale removers are readily available, many are turning their backs on these solutions, especially for kitchenware, seeking instead eco-friendly alternatives.
White vinegar is a popular choice amongst the eco-conscious crowd for natural cleaning, though some folks get put off by its pungent smell.
But there’s good news for noses everywhere as citric acid offers the same acidic punch as white vinegar, just without the strong aroma.
Kate on TikTok, under the username @my_plastic_free_home, has become a crusader for using citric acid across the home, sharing tips for a spick-and-span abode.
Tackling the kettle first, Kate said on her video: “Citric acid is amazing for descaling. Add a couple of tablespoons to your kettle, top up with water and bring it to the boil to get rid of all that nasty limescale.”
Post-limescale liberation, Kate talks through tricks to delay the inevitable return of those stubborn white spots.
Eco-savvy individuals can now opt for reusable water filters to make their kettle cleaning routine more environmentally friendly, forsaking the plastic waste that was once a concern.
But it’s not just about kettles; the remaining citric acid can be whipped up into a top-notch cleaning spray.
Kate instructed: “Make a citric acid cleaning solution by adding two tablespoons to 500ml of warm water, mix and add to a trigger spray bottle to use as a natural cleaner all over your home.”
She hammered home its effectiveness saying this solution is “great” on tiles, sinks, and can dazzle up your bathroom with sparkling taps.
Kate also revealed a handy tip for the toilet: “Of course, it’s also great for removing limescale from the bottom of your toilet. Pour it in, add hot water and let it sit overnight to work its magic.”