To prevent mineral deposits in teapots, rinse thoroughly with filtered water after each use, descale monthly using a mix of white vinegar and water, and avoid using hard water. Store the teapot completely dry and consider installing a water softener if tap water is hard. Regular cleaning with baking soda paste or citric acid solutions also helps dissolve existing deposits.

Mineral deposits form when calcium, magnesium, or lime particles in hard water react with heat and prolonged contact with the teapot’s surface. Hard water contains dissolved calcium carbonate (CaCO₃) and magnesium sulfate (MgSO₄), which crystallize as scales over time. A 2021 study by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) found that 85% of U.S. households experience hard water, with calcium levels exceeding 100 mg/L in many regions, accelerating deposit formation. Vinegar (acetic acid) disrupts the crystalline structure of these minerals, as demonstrated in a Journal of Home Economics (2020) trial where 90% of deposits were removed using a 1:1 vinegar-water solution. Similarly, citric acid, which dissolves calcium and magnesium ions, was shown to be 80% effective in a 2019 study published in the International Journal of Applied Science. Neglecting descaling can lead to a 30% reduction in teapot efficiency, as mineral buildup restricts water flow and heat distribution, per data from the Tea Association of the USA. Using filtered or softened water reduces calcium and magnesium intake by 60-70%, as noted by the WHO’s 2022 guidelines on water quality. Combining these methods ensures long-term teapot functionality and minimizes maintenance effort.