Cleaning a kettle that has boiled dry can be done using the following steps:
Safety First: Before cleaning the kettle, ensure it has cooled down completely to avoid any risk of burns or injuries.
Remove Lime Scale: When a kettle boils dry, it can leave behind mineral deposits, commonly known as lime scale. Fill the kettle halfway with equal parts white vinegar and water. Let the mixture sit in the kettle for about an hour to help dissolve the lime scale.
Scrubbing: After the vinegar and water mixture has soaked, use a soft brush or sponge to scrub the interior of the kettle. Pay extra attention to any areas with stubborn deposits. For hard-to-reach spots, you can use a bottle brush or a toothbrush.
Rinse Thoroughly: Once you have scrubbed the interior, empty the vinegar and water mixture from the kettle. Rinse the kettle thoroughly with clean water to remove any remaining vinegar or loosened lime scale.
Exterior Cleaning: Wipe down the exterior of the kettle with a damp cloth or sponge. If there are any stains or marks, you can use a gentle cleaning solution suitable for the kettle's material. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for cleaning the exterior.
Boiling Water Rinse: To ensure any remaining traces of vinegar or lime scale are removed, fill the kettle with clean water and boil it. Discard this water and repeat the boiling process once or twice more to thoroughly rinse the kettle.
Odor Removal: If there is a vinegar odor remaining, you can fill the kettle with water and add a few slices of lemon or a tablespoon of baking soda. Boil the water, let it sit for a few minutes, then discard the water. This should help eliminate any lingering odors.
Remember, prevention is key to avoiding a kettle boiling dry in the future. Always ensure there is enough water in the kettle before switching it on. If the kettle does boil dry accidentally, it's essential to turn off the power source immediately and allow the kettle to cool down before attempting to clean it.