How to Clean Kettles, Coffee Machines, Air Fryers and Blenders of Limescale and Grease in Jeddah Homes

Each time you heat water some evaporates and leaves the dissolved minerals on the inner surface of the kettle and the coffee machine tank, forming a hard white or grey layer. Over time heating becomes less efficient, boiling takes longer and the appliance gets louder.

The thickness depends on the water used and how often you heat it, which is why regular checks beat waiting until white flakes appear in the tea or coffee.

An air fryer throws oil mist onto the lid, fan and basket, leaving a sticky film that oxidises with heat into brown stains. In a blender, fruit and milk residue clings around the blade at the bottom, and crumbs collect in the toaster.

The problem worsens in coastal homes because humidity makes grease stick to surfaces rather than dry and flake off.

Appliances left damp after washing also develop small musty smells, so dry parts before refitting and store them away from heavy cooking steam.

Once the unit has cooled, take out the basket and tray and wash them in warm water with dish soap, soaking if needed. Wipe the inside chamber, lid and around the fan with a lightly damp cloth, and avoid flooding the unit or spilling water on the heating element.

It is best to clean it after every very greasy use instead of waiting, as fresh stains are far easier.

Half-fill the jar with warm water and a drop of dish soap and run it for a few seconds, then rinse, taking care with the sharp blade. If the base has a rubber ring, take it out to wash and dry.

For the toaster, pull out the crumb tray and shake it out, and wipe the outside with a damp cloth once it is unplugged and cool.

Plastic containers, lids and rubber rings hold on to food smells, especially after strongly spiced dishes. Wash them straight after use with warm water and soap, and let them dry well in the air away from damp.

If a smell remains, soak them for a while in warm water with mild detergent, and avoid mixing bleaches or using harsh materials that scratch the surface and make odours stick.

Use filtered water if possible to reduce deposits, and do not leave water in the kettle or tank for days. After each use wipe the outer surfaces, shake out crumbs and empty the trays.

It helps to fix one day a week to review small appliances: wipe the fronts, check cords and plugs, and make sure there are no cracks or signs of damage. If children are around, keep hot appliances and cleaning out of reach and do not leave cords hanging over the counter edge where the unit could be pulled down.