Descaling the steam oven – instructions for better food quality

For lovers of gently steamed vegetables or tender fish dishes, the steamer is indispensable in the household. In modern kitchens, the devices are often part of the standard equipment. Limescale is deposited inside just like in kettles and coffee machines. Descaling is part of proper care, extends the life of the appliance and improves the quality of the food. If the process is carried out correctly and then a rinsing process is started, food safety is also guaranteed.

 

Descale the steamer step by step

If the steamer wants to be descaled, it will draw your attention to this. There are devices with a lock mode that can no longer be used if they have to be descaled. Most cookers have a descaling program. How to start this can be found in the instructions for use. Some devices guide you step-by-step through the program with instructions on the display, and the dosage of the descaling agent is sometimes specified here. It is important to let the descaling process run completely. If it is canceled, it usually has to be restarted completely.

Even devices without a descaling function want to be freed of deposits on a regular basis. Usually these are smaller table-top devices. Here it is advisable to simply clean the interior with a lime cleaner. If it is very dirty, let the cleaner soak a little and use a soft cloth. The rough side of a cleaning sponge, for example, can damage surfaces. However, sensitive parts and the outside of the device should not come into contact with the cleaner. In addition, only cooled devices should be descaled – regardless of whether they are built-in or tabletop devices. If the steamer is still hot, caustic vapors can form. Individual parts of the cooker can often also be cleaned in the dishwasher. This makes general cleaning easier, but does not replace regular descaling.

 

The right decalcifying agent – purely a matter of taste

Many manufacturers recommend a specific descaler. These remedies are available in tablet or powder form and are often anything but cheap. Various home remedies are just as effective. Vinegar or diluted citric acid are often used to descale the steamer. But you do this at your own risk. If the manufacturer does not expressly recommend such home remedies, they can damage the hoses or rubber seals in the device. Vinegar can also leave traces of taste. Chemical descaler from the trade are more expensive, but also safer.

 

Avoid limescale from the start

Limescale deposits can be prevented with a few simple steps. Simply wipe the interior dry after each use. The condensation can easily be wiped away with kitchen paper, then leave the door open until the interior is completely dry. Lime remains when the water evaporates. Careful dry wiping prevents deposits or stains from forming in the first place. Another option is to use a water softener in the home. This will increase the water hardness  regulated, limescale deposits can generally be avoided.