How to Prevent and Remove Corrosion and Rust in Your Moka Pot?
Corrosion and rust are two different types of metal damage. But both can form on a Moka pot when it remains uncovered in the air, moisture, acidic substances, and salt. You can prevent them with proper cleaning and maintenance and extend the Moka pot’s life.
In this post, we will share how corrosion and rust can affect brewing coffee in a Moka pot and how you can remove and prevent them.
Read to learn more.
How Are Corrosion And Rust Different?
Both rust and corrosion can damage metal objects. But they appear on metallic surfaces for different reasons.
Rust is a type of corrosion that develops when iron or steel gets in touch with oxygen and moisture. It is actually a form of iron oxide with a reddish-brown color and cracking texture. Rust can erode a metal item and cause further damage.
On the other hand, corrosion is the degradation of any metal occurred by chemical and electrochemical reactions. It can affect distinct metals differently. Some reasons for growing corrosion are alkaline substances, salt, moisture, or other environmental factors.
What Are The Effects Of Rust And Corrosion On Moka Pot?
Both rust and corrosion have several harmful belongings on a Moka pot. Let’s check out some of them:
A. They Can Change The Taste of Coffee:
If a Moka pot has rust and corrosion, it can ruin the taste of the coffee brewed in it. They will mix the metallic taste with the coffee and wreck its flavor and aroma. Thus, they can make the coffee less enjoyable.
B. They Will Influence Several Health Issues:
Rust and corrosion are also relevant to several health risks. They carry harmful bacteria and chemicals. If you ingest them somehow, they can harm your body. They can also cause the metal to leach into the coffee. In high doses, this can be very harmful to our health.
C. They Can Damage The Moka Pot:
Both rust and corrosion weaken metal items, including the Moka pot. Thus, metal products become more prone to cracks. They can reduce a Moka pot’s lifespan, negatively affecting its durability and functionality.
How Do You Remove Rust And Corrosion From Moka Pot?
Fortunately, some easy steps can erase rust and corrosion at home. Here is how to do it.
The Materials You Will Need:
- White vinegar or lemon juice
- Baking soda
- Soft-bristled brush or sponge
- Microfiber cloth
- Water
Here Is The Step-By-Step Process:
1. Fill your Moka pot with white vinegar or lemon juice. Now let it react with rust or corrosion for a few hours. However, keeping it overnight will help soften the rust and corrosion well.
2. After waiting, dispose of the vinegar or lemon juice from the Moka pot and wash it thoroughly with water.
3. Make a paste by mixing baking soda with water at a 2:1 ratio.
4. On the corroded areas of the Moka pot, apply the mixture and let it sit for 15-20 minutes.
5. Gently rub the rust and corrosion marks using a soft-bristled brush or sponge.
6. When the sports become fade, wash the Moka pot thoroughly again with water.
7. Finally, dry the Moka pot using a microfiber cloth.
Note: You can repeat the process until the rust and corrosion disappear. Besides, don’t use harsh chemicals or materials to remove them, as they can scratch the surface of your Moka pot.
How Can You Prevent Rust And Corrosion On Moka Pot?
You can remove rust and corrosion following the above process. But prevention is the best way if you want to prolong the lifespan of your Moka pot. Here are some tips to follow.
A. Clean Appropriately After Each Use:
Clean your Moka pot thoroughly with warm soapy water and a soft-bristled brush after every brewing. But note that do not use harsh chemicals and rough metal brushes for cleaning since they can scratch the pot’s surface.
B. Make It Dry Before Storing:
You should make a Moka pot completely free from moisture before storing it. Remove any remaining liquid by using a soft towel or a microfiber cloth. Never leave a wet Moka pot because it can form rust and corrosion.
C. Store It In A Cool And Dry Place:
Do not keep your Moka pot in damp areas or somewhere with extreme temperatures. Also, you can cover the pot with a protective bag to prevent dust and debris from gathering on the pot’s surface.
Final Thoughts
For Moka pot owners, rust and corrosion are annoying problems. Not only do they ruin the taste of the coffee, but they can also invite many health risks. Fortunately, regular cleaning and maintenance can prevent and remove rust and corrosion. You can keep your Moka pot in good condition for years with a bit of care and attention. Besides, you can enjoy delicious coffee for longer.
FAQs Section
In short, no. A Moka pot with rust and corrosion can negatively affect the taste of the coffee. Moreover, you are at risk of several health issues. Removing the rust before using the Moka pot again is the best solution.
After each use, clean your Moka pot to prevent the growth of coffee oils and the formation of rust or corrosion.
It depends on the condition of the Moka pot. If the rust in your Moka pot becomes difficult or impossible to remove, you should replace it.