# DIY Kitchen Descaling Fix

> Homemade descaling solution cleans espresso machines and faucets without buying expensive products.
- Title: DIY Kitchen Descaling Fix · Bon Appétit | Shortify
- Summary: Homemade descaling solution cleans espresso machines and faucets without buying expensive products. Using citric acid and water creates a cheap descaling…
- Keywords: citric acid, descaling, espresso machine, faucet, water dispenser, tea kettle, kitchen, food, lifestyle, DIY, Fix, Bon Appétit
- Source: Bon Appétit — https://bonappetit.com/story/diy-descaling-solution-clean-enough
- Author: Emily Farris
- Published: 2026-10-13T18:24:39.215+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: citric acid, descaling, espresso machine, faucet, water dispenser, tea kettle, kitchen, food, lifestyle
## What is descaling?
Descaling removes mineral buildup from water appliances using acidic solutions.

> alkaline mineral build ups that happen over time wherever tap water sits or flows
## DIY descaling recipe
Mix two tablespoons citric acid with one liter water for a food-safe descaling solution.

> 2 tablespoons citric acid, 1 liter water
## Where to descale
Clean tea kettles, water bottles, faucet bases, and refrigerator water dispensers.

> the bottom of tea kettle and water bottles
## Faucet descaling
Soak faucet bases in solution or use a sandwich bag with solution for overnight cleaning.

> soak a paper towel with solution and lay it on top
## Water dispenser descaling
Submerge water dispenser spouts in solution or use a sandwich bag for overnight cleaning.

> use a sandwich bag about halfway with solution and affix it to the sink
## Next steps
After descaling kitchen appliances, move to the dishwasher for further cleaning.

> Next stop: the dishwasher
## Key takeaway

Using citric acid and water creates a cheap descaling solution for kitchen appliances and faucets.