All Breville irons are fitted with a permanent anti-scale filter. This filter is fixed and cannot be removed for cleaning. The filter is designed to reduce the build-up of limescale inside your iron. Limescale occurs during steam ironing due to water hardness. Water hardness varies from one area to another. The effectiveness of the filter will depend on how 'hard' your water is. Your water provider will be able to tell you how 'hard' the water is in your area.