Limescale buildup in kettles and coffee machines affects both taste and performance, but descaling is straightforward with the right approach.
For kettles
Fill with equal parts water and white vinegar, bring to a boil, then let sit for 20 minutes before rinsing thoroughly.
For coffee machines
Run a vinegar-water solution through a full brew cycle, then run two cycles of plain water to clear any residual taste.
How often to descale
Monthly is a reasonable default for most households, more often in areas with harder water.
Ongoing kitchen maintenance
See our full kitchen cleaning guide for the complete routine, including appliance care.