Typically how long does a steam steriliser last

[thefruitwhisperer]

I have my friends old Tommee Tippee Steam one. She used it for a year and has let me have it. It works fine but has loads of limescale at the bottom despite me scrubbing it all the time.

I dont want to use chemicals on it, nor vinegar.

Is it time to get a new one - she used it for a whole year.

They do need to be descaled regularly according to the instructions and then should last for several years. DS is tube fed and stuff needed sterilising until he was six and ours lasted this long and was then passed on (still in good working order).

The packets of citric acid (which the same stuff as lemon juice) or vinegar are the best things for this.

I think Id prefer citric acid to the vinegar. Ive got a very intense sense of smell and vinegar is like an assault on my nose.

Thanks very much!