Removing limescale from kettles can be a laborious chore that can require hours of scrubbing with a toothbrush or a scourer.
Some people resort to using chemical descalers to remove limescale from kettles, but these can be expensive.
Another common solution is using white vinegar. However, vinegar has a pungent smell that can linger in kettles after they have been cleaned.
Rather than using vinegar or harsh chemicals, cleaning expert Sarah Dempsey at MyJobQuote.co.uk recommends using citric acid.
Citric acid is a natural acid found in citrus fruits. It can banish unpleasant limescale by dissolving the build-up.
Ms Dempsey said the solution doesn’t smell “as potent” as vinegar and should work in around 15 minutes.
She explained to Express.co.uk how to use citric acid to remove limescale from kettles.
“To descale a kettle without harsh chemicals, use citric acid. This doesn’t smell as potent as white vinegar, so it’s more pleasant to use,” she said.
“Fill the kettle, so it’s around half full. Then, boil and unplug it. Add in a couple of tablespoons of the citric acid and leave it to fizz for around 15 to 20 minutes before rinsing.
“If this hasn’t shifted the limescale, refill the kettle and add in another two tablespoons of citric acid. Turn the kettle back on and allow it to boil.
“As the water heats up, the fizzing action should remove the last of the limescale.
“Now all you need to do is rinse the kettle out a few times to remove the residue.”
Citric acid can be bought online and from some hardware stores. B&Q sells Dri-Pak citric acid for £2.25, while Amazon sells a kilogram of citric acid for £6.49.
