How to Clean an Electric Tea Kettle

An electric tea kettle offers a convenient way to brew your favorite batch of tea. After extended use with hard water, however, calcium deposits can build up in the kettle. Luckily, you can quickly clean an electric tea kettle using only vinegar, water and a scouring pad. The vinegar loosens and dissolves the calcium, allowing the scouring pad to wipe away any remaining buildup.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• White vinegar
• Wooden spoon
• Scouring pad

1. Unplug the electric tea kettle from the wall. Failure to do so may result in electric shock. Remove all water from the kettle and allow it to cool to room temperature if it is not already.

2. Fill the kettle halfway full with warm water. Add ¼ cup of vinegar to the water and mix well using a wooden spoon. Allow the mixture to sit in the kettle for 15 to 20 minutes.

3. Scrub the sidewalls of the electric tea kettle with a scouring pad to remove any remaining debris. Be careful not to scrub the heating element too roughly, or the outer coating that protects it could become damaged.

4. Pour the vinegar water out of the electric tea kettle and rinse thoroughly with cool water. Ensure that all calcium chunks are rinsed from the kettle.

5. Allow the kettle to dry for 10 to 15 minutes. Fill the kettle with water and heat to a rolling boil. Dump the boiling water out; this will help remove any aftertaste from the cleaning.

Tips & Warnings

• For any damage such as melted plastic or exposed wires, take the tea kettle to be serviced at a licensed professional. Never operate an electric tea kettle with electrical damage.
• Make sure the kettle is completely dry before using again. Water can sometimes accumulate in the electrical connections while washing. Use a blow dryer if the kettle isn't drying thoroughly.