Some people try to save time by cooking instant noodles or soups in their kettles. Big mistake. Adding salt, seasoning packets, or noodles can corrode the metal, damage the internal thermostat, and lead to a dirty, smelly mess. Kettles aren’t built to handle solids or complex mixtures — stick to water only.

4. Essential Oils
If you’ve ever thought of using your kettle as an improvised humidifier or diffuser, think again. Essential oils can leave a greasy film, damage internal components, and release toxic fumes when heated at high temperatures. It’s unsafe and not worth the risk — always use a proper diffuser for aromatherapy.

5. Anything Acidic (e.g., Lemon Juice, Vinegar for Boiling)

While lemon juice and vinegar are excellent for descaling a kettle when diluted properly and used with care, you should never boil them alone or in large amounts. Boiling strong acids can corrode the heating element, cause unpleasant smells, or even trigger harmful chemical reactions, especially in plastic models.

Final Tip:
Your electric kettle is meant for one thing: boiling water. Using it for anything else can shorten its lifespan, ruin the taste of your drinks, or even pose safety hazards. If you’re looking for multi-use appliances, consider a hot pot or electric steamer instead.

Treat your kettle well, and it’ll serve you reliably for years to come.