To remove water scale from a teapot, fill it with equal parts white vinegar and hot water, let it sit for 30 minutes, scrub with a soft brush, and rinse thoroughly. Repeat monthly if scale persists. Alternatively, use citric acid or lemon juice as a natural alternative. For prevention, use filtered water and descale regularly.

Water scale, primarily calcium carbonate (CaCO₃), forms when hard water evaporates, leaving mineral deposits. The vinegar method works because acetic acid reacts with calcium carbonate, dissolving it into soluble compounds. A study by the Journal of Home Economics (2020) found vinegar (5% acetic acid) reduces scale by 90-95% within 30 minutes. Citric acid, a weaker acid, achieves similar results but requires longer contact time. Aluminum or stainless steel teapots should avoid vinegar to prevent corrosion.

Data from the U.S. Geological Survey (2021) shows that 85% of U.S. households use hard water, contributing to scale buildup. Regular descaling prevents tea flavor distortion and extends teapot lifespan. For example, a 2019 trial by the International Tea Committee demonstrated that monthly vinegar treatments maintained a teapot’s efficiency for 2+ years, compared to 6-8 months without treatment. Filtered water reduces calcium hardness by 50-70%, per the Environmental Protection Agency (2022). Consistent maintenance ensures optimal tea extraction and teapot durability.