Cleaning an electric kettle means removing dust, water residue, and everyday soil without immersing the base or electrical contacts. Mineral scale is handled by a separate descaling process. Work with the appliance unplugged and cool, clean the interior and exterior according to the manual, and let everything dry before reconnecting it.
Unplug and remove the kettle from its base
Empty the water and let the appliance cool. Keep a corded base dry and wipe it only. Do not immerse the kettle body unless the manufacturer explicitly says that component is washable.
Clean the interior with food-contact-safe methods
For light soil, water and a soft cloth or brush are often enough. If the model has a removable spout filter, clean it as the manual directs. Avoid pads that scratch the interior or coating.
Wipe the exterior rather than rinsing under a tap
Apply a small amount of compatible cleaner to the cloth and wipe the handle, lid, and housing. Keep liquid out of switches, the base interface, and electrical contacts.
If the problem is white scale, descale separately
Hard mineral deposits do not necessarily come off with routine cleaning. Use the manufacturer’s descaling procedure and rinse thoroughly before boiling drinking water again. Do not scrape a damaged exposed heating element with metal tools.