Home | Kitchen Cleaning | How to Clean Electric Kettle Outside

How to Clean Electric Kettle Outside

Reviewed by Zac Kieffer

Updated: September 16, 2025

Easily clean your electric kettle’s exterior with E-Cloth. Simple steps for spotless results—no harsh chemicals needed.

Title

How to Clean Electric Kettle Outside

Tools:

- E-Cloth
- Mild dish soap
- Water
- Soft sponge or non-abrasive scrubber
- Dry towel

Disconnect and Let It Cool

Ensure the kettle is unplugged and completely cool to avoid any risk of burns.
If there’s any water left in it, pour it out.

Remove Detachable Parts

If your kettle has a removable base or filter, take it off to clean separately later.
This makes it easier to wipe down the entire surface properly.

Wipe Down with a Damp Cloth

Dampen a soft cloth with water – no need for harsh chemicals.
Gently wipe all around the kettle’s exterior to remove dust and splashes.

Tackle Stubborn Spots

If you find any oily or sticky residues, add a drop of mild dish soap to your damp cloth.
Rinse the cloth with water frequently and continue wiping until the spot is clean.

Dry and Admire Your Work

Use a dry microfiber cloth to thoroughly dry the surface and remove any streaks.
Reassemble any parts you detached once the kettle is completely dry.

Precautions:

Electrical Safety Precautions

Ensure the kettle is unplugged before moving or cleaning to avoid any electrical shock hazards.
Avoid cleaning near exposed electrical sockets or outlets.

Cooling Down Precautions

Make sure the kettle has completely cooled down before beginning any cleaning process.
Check that no residual heat remains to prevent burns or damage during cleaning.

Non-Immersion and Wetness Precautions

Avoid any contact between water or cleaning solutions and the kettle’s electrical components.
Do not submerge the kettle in water; focus only on the exterior surfaces.

Chemical and Substance Safety Precautions

Use only mild cleaning agents that won’t corrode or damage the kettle’s finish.
Avoid abrasive chemicals or harsh disinfectants that could affect plastic or metal parts.

Surface and Environmental Precautions

Clean the kettle in a well-ventilated area to ensure fumes from any cleaning agents disperse safely.
Protect surrounding surfaces from accidental spills or splashes of cleaning products.

How to Maintain Cleanliness Electric Kettle Outside: Extra Tips

Regular Descaling Routine

Set a reminder to descale your electric kettle once every month to avoid lime buildup. Use a mixture of water and vinegar in a 1:1 ratio, boil it, then rinse thoroughly.
This regular routine helps maintain efficiency and prolongs the kettle’s lifespan.

Title

Drying After Every Use

After each use, make sure to pour out any water left inside and let the kettle dry completely. Leaving moisture can lead to mineral residue and unpleasant odors.
Wipe the inside with a soft cloth if needed to speed up the drying process.

Title

Gentle Cleaning on the Exterior

Wipe the outside of your kettle with a damp cloth and a splash of mild dish soap to remove fingerprints and dust. Avoid using abrasive cleaners that can damage the surface.
Dry the exterior with a clean, soft towel to prevent streaks and water marks.

Title

Avoid Harsh Chemicals and Scratches

Stick to non-toxic, mild cleaning agents as harsh chemicals can eat away at the kettle’s finish or leave harmful residues. Avoid using steel wool or abrasive pads that might scratch the surface.
Use a plastic or a soft sponge to scrub if necessary, keeping the kettle pristine and safe for daily use.

Common Mistakes When Cleaning Electric Kettle Outside

Neglecting to Unplug the Kettle Before Cleaning

Forgetting this crucial safety step puts you at risk of electric shock or short-circuiting the kettle.
Always remove the plug from the socket before coming into contact with the appliance.

Using Excessive Water on the Kettle's Exterior

Over-wetting can cause water to seep into electronic components, leading to malfunctions or potential hazards.
Only use a slightly damp cloth and avoid letting moisture accumulate around seams or buttons.

Cleaning with Harsh Chemicals or Abrasive Materials

Strong cleaning products or scouring pads can scratch or erode the surface, ruining the kettle's finish.
Opt for gentle cleaning agents and soft materials to keep the kettle in optimal condition.

Title

How Often to Clean How to Clean Electric Kettle Outside

Frequency and Rationale

Clean the outside of your electric kettle once a week if you use it daily. Regular cleaning prevents buildup of everyday smudges, dust, and minor water spills that can affect its appearance.
If you use it less frequently, a thorough wipe-down every 2–3 weeks will usually suffice to keep the exterior looking fresh and free of grime.
This weekly-to-biweekly schedule ensures that any residues from splashes or environmental dust are removed before they harden, preserving both the kettle’s aesthetic appeal and overall longevity.

E-Cloth

Other Brands

Precision-engineered, uniform microfibers

Often crushed/less consistent fibers

No streaks with just water

May need chemicals for same results

Lasts ~300 washes

Many break down faster

Traps and locks in particles

Can smear dirt around

Reduces chemicals & waste, reusable

Less eco, more waste/chemicals

Shop Now

A Clean You Can See

Our high-performance microfiber products simplify cleaning, making it quick, easy, and effective, so you can enjoy visible results without the fuss. No streaks, just results.

Shop Now