How to Clean Instant Hot Water Pots
Instant hot water pots supply an immediate source of hot water for drinks such as tea or coffee or food products like oatmeal. Because these pots usually only contain water, they rarely require much cleaning. On a daily basis, all that is needed is a general cleaning.
If you notice any calcium deposits -- often the result of hard water -- a more thorough cleaning and decalcification is necessary.
Things You Will Need
- Mild liquid soap
- Soft cloths
- White vinegar
Tip
You can use a commercially-made descaler or decalcification product formulated for kettles and percolators in place of the white vinegar. These products are available in most supermarkets.
Warning
Do not submerge the water pot in water.
Do not use abrasive cleaners on the pot.
General Cleaning
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Wait until the hot water pot is cold before cleaning it.
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Empty the pot into a sink. Rinse out the inside with plain water. Add a drop of a mild liquid soap to remove any scum or other residue. Rinse the soap from the pot until the water runs clear.
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Dry the interior thoroughly with a soft, lint-free cloth.
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Wipe the outside of the pot with a clean, damp cloth. Dry with a soft cloth.
Decalcification
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Empty any water from the pot into a sink.
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Fill the kettle with white vinegar until it covers the bottom 1/2 inch, then add enough water to fill the pot.
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Run the pot through a cycle so it boils the vinegar mix. Some pot models have a descaling function; use this as opposed to running a cycle.
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Check the pot's interior for leftover mineral deposits. If you discover any, repeat Step 3 until all mineral deposits are gone.
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Empty the pot and rinse it well with water.
The Drip Cap
- Instant hot water pots supply an immediate source of hot water for drinks such as tea or coffee or food products like oatmeal.
- Dry the interior thoroughly with a soft, lint-free cloth.
- Wipe the outside of the pot with a clean, damp cloth.
- Fill the kettle with white vinegar until it covers the bottom 1/2 inch, then add enough water to fill the pot.
References
Writer Bio
Sommer Leigh has produced home, garden, family and health content since 1997 for such nationally known publications as "Better Homes and Gardens," "Ladies' Home Journal," "Midwest Living," "Healthy Kids" and "American Baby." Leigh also owns a Web-consulting business and writes for several Internet publications. She has a Bachelor of Science in information technology and Web management from the University of Phoenix.
Photo Credits
- popovaphoto/iStock/Getty Images
- popovaphoto/iStock/Getty Images
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