Limescale, also known as hard water deposits or calcium carbonate buildup, is a chalky white mineral residue that gradually forms inside electric kettles after repeated boiling or when water is left standing for long periods. Over time, this buildup can reduce heating efficiency, increase energy consumption, and may even cause corrosion to the kettle’s interior if left untreated.

Regularly cleaning and removing limescale not only helps ensure clean, safe drinking water but also maintains optimal performance and extends the lifespan of your kettle. There are many methods available to remove limescale, but most people prefer solutions that are simple, affordable, and safe for health. Fortunately, several natural ingredients can effectively dissolve and remove these mineral deposits.

Vinegar or Lemon Juice

Vinegar and lemon juice are acidic substances that can easily break down limescale inside a kettle. To use this method, pour about 100 ml of vinegar or freshly squeezed lemon juice into the kettle. Alternatively, you can slice a lemon into thin pieces and place them directly inside. Add clean water until the kettle is filled to a normal level, then bring it to a boil.
After boiling, let the hot water cool naturally inside the kettle. Once cooled, pour out the solution and rinse the kettle thoroughly with clean water to remove any remaining odor or residue.

Eggshells

Eggshells may sound unusual, but they can help remove stubborn deposits inside the kettle through gentle abrasion.
First, wash the eggshells thoroughly and crush them into small pieces. Place the crushed shells into the kettle and fill it halfway with water. Boil the mixture and occasionally stir with a chopstick or spoon so the shells move around inside. After boiling, discard the shells and rinse the kettle well with clean water to eliminate any remaining debris.

Using Potato Peels

Potato peels are another natural and effective way to remove limescale. Simply wash the potato peels to remove dirt, place them in the kettle, add water, and bring the mixture to a boil. Let the water cool gradually before discarding the peels. Rinse the kettle with clean water, and you will notice that the mineral buildup has been significantly reduced or completely removed.

Citric Acid

Citric acid is one of the most powerful natural solutions for limescale removal. Add about two tablespoons of citric acid powder to the kettle, then fill it halfway with water. Bring the solution to a boil, and in just one cycle, most limescale deposits will dissolve without the need for scrubbing.
After boiling, rinse the kettle thoroughly with clean water. If the limescale buildup is heavy, you can repeat the process once more for better results.

Citric acid is naturally found in citrus fruits and is responsible for their distinctive sour taste. It can also be produced industrially through fermentation using microorganisms such as Aspergillus niger or Yarrowia lipolytica. This versatile compound is widely used in foods, beverages, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and household cleaning products.

Citric acid powder—also known as sour salt or lemon acid—is readily available at food additive stores, chemical supply shops, and online marketplaces. Compared to fresh lemons or vinegar, citric acid works faster and more effectively. However, if citric acid is not available, vinegar and lemon juice remain excellent and reliable alternatives for keeping your kettle clean and limescale-free.