Extend the Lifespan of Your Electric Kettle by Doing This Regularly

After using an electric kettle for a period of time, it’s important to perform proper maintenance to keep the appliance working efficiently and extend its lifespan. Electric kettles are used daily in many households, so it’s not unusual for them to develop issues such as failing to heat or not receiving power. When this happens, don’t rush to throw the kettle away and buy a new one. A common cause of power failure is simply dirt and residue buildup. Cleaning the kettle thoroughly can help restore proper electrical contact and improve overall performance.

To clean the kettle, you’ll only need a few simple household items: a toothpick, some cotton, and rubbing alcohol or strong liquor.

Start by wrapping a small amount of cotton tightly around the pointed end of the toothpick. Dip the cotton tip into alcohol and carefully clean the contact points located at the base of the kettle as well as the heating plate on the stand. These small gaps often accumulate dust, grime, and mineral residue, which can interrupt the electrical connection. Replace the cotton whenever it becomes dirty and continue cleaning until all stubborn buildup has been removed.

Once the external electrical contacts are clean, you can move on to removing limescale and deposits inside the kettle. There are several effective methods using common household ingredients:

1. Using Baking Soda

Baking soda is excellent for dissolving mineral deposits. Add a spoonful of baking soda to the kettle and fill it with water. Bring the mixture to a boil. The combination of heat and baking soda will help loosen and dissolve limescale stuck to the walls and bottom of the kettle. After boiling, pour out the water and rinse thoroughly with clean water. For heavy buildup, you can repeat this process or let the baking soda mixture soak longer before boiling.

2. Using Eggshells

Eggshells can act as a gentle abrasive. Rinse the shells thoroughly, crush them into small pieces, and place them inside the kettle. Fill the kettle halfway with water and bring it to a boil. Stir the mixture occasionally using chopsticks to help the eggshells scrub the surface. After the water boils, turn off the kettle and let the mixture sit for about 30 minutes. Finally, discard the eggshells and rinse the kettle well with clean water.

3. Using Table Salt

Table salt can also help remove stubborn stains and mineral deposits. Add 1–2 tablespoons of salt to the kettle, fill it with water, and bring it to a boil. The abrasive nature of salt helps loosen buildup effectively. Pour out the water and rinse the kettle multiple times to ensure all residue is removed. This method is particularly useful for kettles that develop a rough layer of hard scale at the bottom.

4. Using Potato Peels

Potato peels contain natural starches that help soften and lift limescale. Wash the peels thoroughly to remove any dirt, then place them in the kettle. Add water and bring it to a boil. Let the mixture soak for about 10 minutes before pouring everything out. Rinse the kettle with fresh water, and you’ll notice the inner surface becoming much cleaner and smoother.

Extra Tip for Longer Kettle Life

To keep your electric kettle in the best condition, try to descale it at least once every two to three weeks, depending on how often you use it and the hardness of your water. Regular maintenance not only improves heating efficiency but also reduces energy consumption and prevents unpleasant odors from developing inside the kettle. With proper care, your electric kettle can last significantly longer and operate more safely.