Say goodbye to limescale: A guide to limescale reduction and decalcification

Limescale - a common problem in households. Especially in areas with hard water. Not only does it shorten the life of household appliances such as kettles, it also affects the taste and quality of the water. Fortunately, there are solutions so that limescale doesn't stand a chance. For example, with the built-in limescale filter in your ZWILLING ENFINIGY kettle.

Kettle with limescale filter - lasts longer, tastes better

The stainless steel limescale filter in the kettle is an extremely practical addition to reduce limescale deposits and make the water cleaner and tastier. The filter is usually made of a special substance that keeps the limescale particles out of your boiling water and effectively protects your kettle.

Do you still need to descale the kettle?

Nevertheless, even with a filter, you should descale your kettle every now and then. A little bit of limescale still gets through, so limescale deposits can still build up in the kettle over time. If this is the case, it's important to know how to properly descale your kettle to ensure optimal performance and extend the lifetime of your kettle.
How can I effectively descale the kettle?

Descaling the kettle is definitely not complicated. We recommend doing it regularly to get the best result. Here is a simple step-by-step guide on how to effectively descale your kettle:


  1. Preparation: Make sure that the kettle is switched off and has cooled down. Disconnect the kettle from the mains before descaling.
  2. Descale the kettle with vinegar or our ZWILLING descaler: Fill the kettle with water and bring to the boil. Then add a little vinegar or descaler to dissolve the limescale deposits.
  3. Soak: Leave the mixture in the kettle for about an hour. During this time, the limescale deposits will be dissolved.
  4. Let it cool down afterwards and pour it out of the kettle. 
  5. Thorough rinsing: rinse the kettle thoroughly with clean water several times to remove any vinegar or citric acid residue.
  6. Drying: Dry the kettle thoroughly before putting it back into operation. 

How often do I need to descale the kettle?

The frequency of descaling depends on the water hardness and frequency of use. In areas with very hard water, it is recommended to descale the kettle every 1 - 2 months, while in areas with softer water, descaling every 2 - 3 months may be sufficient.

Hard water, soft water - what does it mean?

Hard and soft water are two terms that refer to the mineral content of drinking water. The main difference lies in the concentration of calcium and magnesium ions.

  • Hard water contains a high amount of these minerals, while soft water contains few or none of them. It is formed when rainwater flows through calciferous rock layers, absorbing calcium and magnesium. Although these minerals are not harmful to the human body, they can cause limescale deposits in household appliances and piping, which shortens the life of these devices.
  • Soft water, on the other hand, is usually produced by softening hard water using ion exchange or reverse osmosis. It is gentler on household appliances and detergents work more effectively because no soap deposits are formed.

Reduce lime in the kettle - you have it in your hand

In summary, the built-in limescale filter in the kettle can be an effective way to reduce limescale deposits. However, regular descaling is necessary to ensure optimal performance of your kettle and to prevent limescale buildup. By not giving limescale a chance and ensuring proper care of your kettle, you can extend the life of your appliance and enjoy clean, tasty water.