How to Clean Xiaomi’s Kettle from Scale, Scoop and Mold: A Complete Guide to 2026

Xiaomi’s electric kettles are among the most popular on the market thanks to a combination of smart features, stylish design and affordable price. Viomi, Mijia Smart Kettle and Smartmi models feature stainless flasks, touch controls and even integration with the Mi Home. However, even the most advanced appliances require regular maintenance: scale, heating element soak and mold if stored improperly can spoil the taste of water and shorten the life of the device.

In this article, we will discuss 5 proven ways to clean Xiaomi kettle β€” from classic (vinegar, citric acid) to modern (special tablets and ultrasound), you will learn how to remove contamination without risking damage to the touch panel or nonstick coating, and how to properly care for the device so that cleaning is required less often.

Before you start cleaning, check the warranty conditions of your model. Some procedures (such as mechanical cleaning of the TEG) can cancel the warranty if performed unprofessionally. FAQ answers to frequent questions: can you wash the kettle in the dishwasher, how to get rid of the smell of plastic and what to do if after cleaning the device does not turn on.

πŸ“Š What kind of kettle Xiaomi you have?
Viomi (series) V-KA300 etc.)
Mijia Smart Kettle (MJKQ)
Smartmi (Kettle Pro)
Another brand
I don't know.

1.Why Xiaomi kettle needs to be cleaned regularly

Scale is not just an aesthetic problem: Calcium deposits on a heating element (TEN) increase the boiling time of water by 20-40%, which leads to overuse of electricity. According to research, 1 mm of scale increases energy consumption by 10%. For Xiaomi kettles with a capacity of 1800-2200 watts, this means an extra 50-100 kWh per year - as if you left a light bulb on for 500 hours.

In addition, scale and scalp can cause:

  • πŸ”₯ Overheating of heater – the risk of automatic shutdown or even breakage;
  • 🦠 Bacterial reproduction – especially in models with temperature maintenance (Keep Warm);
  • β˜• Changes in the taste of water – metallic taste or burning smell;
  • ⚑ Reduced lifespan – Xiaomi manufacturer recommends cleaning every 1-3 months depending on the hardness of the water.

The Viomi and Smartmi models are equipped with self-cleaning TENG (Descale feature), but this does not negate the need for manual cleaning.The automatic system removes only surface deposits, whereas deep scale requires special tools.

⚠️ Note: If your Xiaomi kettle started to turn off before boiling or makes unusual sounds (hisping, crackling), this may signal a critical layer of scale on the TEN. In this case, cleaning should be done immediately, otherwise the risk of breakage increases by 3 times.

2. How to determine the degree of contamination of the kettle

Before choosing a cleaning method, evaluate the condition of your device.

Look inside the bulb in good lighting - whether white or yellow plaque on the walls is visible?|

Check the bottom of the kettle: are there black spots (nagar) on the heating disc?|

Smell the water after boiling - whether you smell the burn or metal?|

Check the boiling time: if it increased by 30% or more, this is a sign of a thick layer of scale|

Try the water to taste (after cooling) - is there a taste of lime or chemistry?

-->

Depending on the results, select the cleaning method from the table below:

Pollution levelSigns.Recommended methodTime of procedure
Easy.Thin white coating, no smell, boiling time unchangedCitric acid or vinegar (1 procedure)30-60 minutes
MediumVisible scale layer, light smell, boiling longer by 10-20%vinegar + soda or special tablets1-2 hours
Heavy.Thick layer of scale, black scent, strong smell, kettle shuts downMechanical cleaning + chemical agents (in 2 stages)2-3 hours
CriticalThe kettle does not turn on, the water does not heat up, a rusty raid is visible.Professional cleaning or replacement of TENSβ€”

For Xiaomi Viomi models V-KA300 and Smartmi Kettle Pro with stainless flask is permissible mechanical cleaning with a soft sponge. MJKQ) require a more careful approach - abrasives can damage the surface.

πŸ’‘

If you are in doubt about the bulb material, check the documentation or look at the markings at the bottom of the kettle.Stainless steel is labeled as Stainless Steel or SUS304, Plastic: Tritan or Food Grade Plastic.

3. Method 1: Citric acid purification (the safest method)

Citric acid is the best choice for regular cleaning of Xiaomi kettles.It is effective against scale, does not damage plastic and stainless steel, and neutralizes unpleasant odors.The method is suitable for all models, including the Viomi with the Descale function.

Step-by-step:

  1. Pour 500 ml of water into the kettle (up to the maximum mark).
  2. Add 2 tbsp. citric acid (20-25 g) or juice 1-2 lemons.
  3. Turn on the kettle and bring the solution to a boil.
  4. Turn off the device and leave the solution inside for 30 to 60 minutes.
  5. Pour the liquid, wash the kettle with running water 3-5 times.
  6. Pour clean water, boil and drain - this will remove the remaining acid.

For strong scale, repeat the procedure 2 times in a row. If after cleaning there are divorces, wipe the walls of the bulb with a soft napkin soaked in a solution of citric acid (1 h. spoon per 100 ml of water).

⚠️ Note: Do not use citric acid more than 1 time a month - it can damage rubber seals in kettles with the function Keep Warm (temperature support.

What to do if there is a smell after citric acid?
If the smell persists, pour water into the kettle with 1 tsp. of baking soda, boil and rinse. Soda neutralizes the acidity. Repeat 2 to 3 times if necessary.

4. Method 2: Vinegar + baking-baking

This method is suitable for kettles with running scale or black soda on the heating disc. Vinegar dissolves calcium deposits, and soda neutralizes the smell and removes fatty contamination. Not recommended for models with a plastic flask (Mijia). MJKQ) β€” Vinegar can leave a persistent smell.

Ingredients:

  • 🍢 White vinegar (9%) - 100 ml;
  • πŸ§‚ Baking soda - 1 tbsp. spoon;
  • πŸ’§ Water - 400 ml.

Cleaning process:

  1. Mix the water and vinegar in the kettle, bring to a boil.
  2. Turn off the kettle and add soda, and the reaction will start with hissing.
  3. Leave the solution for 1 hour (for strong scale - for 2 hours).
  4. Gently rub the walls and bottom with a soft sponge (not abrasive!).
  5. Thoroughly rinse the kettle 5-7 times, then boil clean water and drain.

To remove the coarse from the heating disc, moisten the cotton cotton cotton disc in vinegar solution and wipe the surface. Do not use metal brushes - this will damage the non-stick coating!

πŸ’‘

After cleaning with vinegar, be sure to boil water with a lemon lobe in the kettle - this will remove the residual smell.

5. Method 3: Special tablets and liquids for kettles

If home methods do not help or you are afraid of damaging the kettle, use professional means:

  • πŸ§ͺ Topperr or Sano tablets – dissolve scale in 15-20 minutes, suitable for all Xiaomi models;
  • 🧴 Bork liquid K8P1 β€” Removes scale and disinfects, recommended for kettles with Keep Warm function;

How to use:

  1. Dissolve 1 tablet in 300 ml of warm water (or follow the instructions on the package).
  2. Pour the solution into the kettle, turn it on and bring it to a boil.
  3. Leave for 10 to 30 minutes (time depends on the degree of contamination).
  4. Rinse the kettle at least 5 times, then boil clean water.

Advantages of professional means:

  • βœ… Fast action (2-3 times faster than vinegar);
  • βœ… No pungent smell;
  • βœ… Suitable for kettles with smart features (does not damage sensors).

⚠️ Warning: Do not use cleaning products for coffee makers or irons - they contain aggressive acids that can damage plastic parts of Xiaomi kettle".

Method 4: Mechanical cleaning (for persistent contaminants)

If scale or scaling is not chemically amenable, mechanical cleaning is necessary, a method that is risky for models with a plastic flask (Mijia). MJKQ), But suitable for stainless teapots Viomi and Smartmi.

What you need:

  • 🧽 Soft sponge (for example, for washing dishes);
  • 🧼 Soft bristles toothbrush;
  • 🧴 Toothpaste (without abrasives!) or pasta GOI polish;
  • 🧻 Microfiber wipe.

Step-by-step:

  1. Turn off the kettle and let it cool.
  2. Apply a little toothpaste to the sponge and gently rub the walls of the bulb.
  3. For the heating disc, use a toothbrush soaked in a solution of vinegar or citric acid.
  4. Remove the leftovers of the paste with a wet napkin, then rinse the kettle under running water.
  5. Boil clean water 2 times to remove the residues of funds.

For ultrasonic cleaning (if you have an ultrasonic bath), use 40 kHz mode and a solution of water with citric acid (1:10). Processing time is 10-15 minutes. This method is suitable for all Xiaomi models, including smart kettles with touch control.

πŸ’‘

If the TEN coar is not removed, try the paste made from soda and water (the consistency of toothpaste). Apply for 10 minutes, then rinse. Do not use sandpaper or metal scrapers!

7.Keeping Xiaomi's kettle care: How to avoid frequent cleaning

To clean the kettle less often, follow these recommendations:

  • πŸ’§ Use filtered or bottled water – this reduces scale formation by 70%.
  • 🧼 Wash the kettle after each use - drain the remaining water and wipe the flask with a dry wipe.
  • πŸ”„ Turn on the self-cleaning function (if any) at least 1 time per week. In Viomi kettles, hold the Descale button for 3 seconds to do this.
  • 🚫 Do not leave water in the kettle for a long time - this provokes the growth of bacteria and the formation of plaque.
  • πŸ“± Update firmware (for smart models) – new versions often improve self-cleaning algorithms.

For models with Keep Warm (Smartmi Kettle Pro) function, be sure to drain the water after use - heating accelerates scale formation. If you live in a region with hard water, clean the kettle every 2-3 weeks, even if there is little visual plaque.

8.Frequent mistakes when cleaning Xiaomi kettle

Not only can the wrong actions ruin the kettle, but it can also make it dangerous.

  • ❌ Use chlorine-containing agents (e.g., Whiteness) – they corrode plastic and leave toxic fumes.
  • ❌ Cleaning the kettle when turned on - the risk of short circuit or burn.
  • ❌ Apply abrasive powders (such as Pemoluks) - they scratch stainless steel and plastic.
  • ❌ Leaving vinegar or acid overnight – this can damage rubber rings.
  • ❌ Wash the kettle in the dishwasher – even if the flask is removable, high temperatures deform plastic.

Especially careful with smart kettles (Mijia Smart Kettle), their touch panels are sensitive to moisture β€” when cleaning, avoid liquid on the top of the case. If water does get into the water, immediately dry the kettle with a hairdryer (cold mode) or leave for 12 hours in a dry place.

  1. Dry contacts on the stand (wipe with alcohol).
  2. The integrity of the power cord.
  3. Has the overheating sensor worked (wait 10 minutes and try again)

If the problem persists, contact the service center.-->

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions

πŸ”Ή Can I wash a Xiaomi kettle in a dishwasher?
No, even if the flask is removable, high temperatures and detergents will damage plastic parts and seals, except for models marked "Dishwasher Safe" (Xiaomi does not have them yet).
πŸ”Ή How to get rid of the smell of plastic in a new kettle?
Boil the teapot with lemon peel or 2 tbsp. soda spoons 2-3 times. Also help ventilate during the day with the lid open. If the smell remains - return the kettle under warranty (it can be a marriage).
πŸ”Ή Why does the water get bitter after cleaning with vinegar?
You haven't washed the kettle enough. Boil pure water 3-5 times, draining it each time. If the taste remains, use a soda solution (1 tsp per 500 ml of water) to neutralize.
πŸ”Ή Can I clean a Coca-Cola teapot?
Technically, yes, the orthophosphoric acid in the cola dissolves scale, but it's not recommended: sugar leaves a sticky coating, and dyes can stain plastic. If you decide, rinse the kettle at least 10 times after cleaning.
πŸ”Ή How to Clean a Heating Disk if It Is Black?
Wet the cotton cotton cotton disc in a solution of vinegar and soda (1:1), put it on the disk for 10 minutes, then gently rub it with a soft brush. For persistent soda, repeat the procedure 2-3 times. Do not use a knife or metal sponges!