Descaling solution is a liquid chemical substance used to remove limescale from metal surfaces in contact with hot water, such as in boilers, water heaters, and kettles. Limescale is a hard, chalky deposit that forms when water containing calcium and magnesium evaporates, leaving behind mineral deposits. Descaling agents are typically acidic compounds such as hydrochloric acid, citric acid, glycolic acid, formic acid, lactic acid, phosphoric acid, sulfamic acid, and acetic acid that react with the calcium carbonate and magnesium carbonate compounds present in the scale, producing carbon dioxide gas and a soluble salt. Descaling agents are usually corrosive to the eyes and skin and can also attack and degrade clothing fibers, so appropriate protection such as rubber gloves and plastic aprons should be used in cleaning operations. Descaling can also cause erosion and dezincification of brass, causing the brass to leach lead, which is thereby released into potable water lines. Descaling solution is also used to clean coffee makers, and there are commercial descaling formulas available that are safe and effective. Some coffee machines have a solution that’s made by their same brand, and there are also several cleaning product brands that offer solutions that work with multiple small appliances. Descaling solution is specifically formulated for descaling coffee pots and will keep the machine running reliably. The descaling process is the same, no matter which method you use, but vinegar is readily available and more affordable than commercial descaler. However, the manufacturer may not honor a warranty claim if you regularly use vinegar instead of a descaler to clean your coffee maker.