Limescale builds up inside kettles and coffee machines — especially in hard-water areas — making them slower, noisier and less efficient, and affecting the taste of your brew. Descaling regularly keeps them working like new. Here's how.
Why descaling matters
Scale coats the heating element and pipes, so the appliance uses more energy to heat, takes longer, and can eventually clog or fail. Regular descaling protects performance and extends its life.
How to descale a kettle
- Use a kettle descaler, or a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar (or citric acid).
- Fill, bring to the boil, then leave to soak for 15–30 minutes.
- Pour away, then rinse and boil with fresh water two or three times before using.
How to descale a coffee machine
- Use the manufacturer's descaler and follow the machine's descale programme — many bean-to-cup and pod machines have an automatic cycle and a warning light.
- Run clean water through afterwards to flush any residue.
- Don't ignore the descale alert — it protects the pump and heater.
How often?
Every 1–3 months in hard-water areas, or as your machine prompts. Using filtered water slows scale build-up.
Final thoughts
A few minutes of descaling keeps your coffee machine and kettle efficient and your coffee tasting its best. Browse coffee machines and kettles online or ask in any of our 60+ stores.
