Spotting orange or brown specks on the inside of your stainless kettle? Rust spots usually come from minerals and standing water rather than the steel itself failing, and light rust cleans up well.
Here is why rust appears and how to clear it.
This article will teach you:
- Why rust forms inside a kettle
- Whether it is safe
- How to clean it
- How to prevent it
Why Rust Forms Inside
- Standing water left in the kettle for long periods.
- Mineral deposits from hard water triggering surface rust.
- Scratches in the interior finish.
- Low-grade steel on some inexpensive kettles.
What You’ll Need
- White vinegar and baking soda
- A soft cloth or non-metal scrubber
- Fresh water
How to Clean Rust From a Kettle
- Vinegar boil. Boil a vinegar and water mix and let it soak.
- Baking soda scrub. Make a paste and gently rub the rust spots.
- Rinse well. Rinse several times and boil one plain load.
- Dry after use. Empty and dry the kettle to stop rust returning.
Pro Tip: The biggest cause of a rusty kettle is leaving water sitting in it. Emptying and drying the kettle after each use is the simplest way to keep the interior clean.
When to Look a Little Deeper
Because rust and minerals go together, it helps to address buildup, and reviewing limescale buildup, a leaking kettle, or an odd smell or taste can reveal related issues.
When to Call a Pro
No repair applies here. If the interior is heavily pitted rather than lightly spotted, replace the kettle rather than keep cleaning it.
Wrapping Up
Light rust cleans up easily. Here’s the recap:
- Boil a vinegar solution.
- Scrub spots with baking soda paste.
- Rinse and boil one plain load.
- Empty and dry after each use.
Clean and dry, and the interior stays clear. You’ve got this.