KITCHEN · GUIDE
How to Maintain Your Coffee Machine
Better coffee and a longer-lasting machine come down to a short, regular cleaning routine. Here it is.
Limescale and old coffee oils are the two things that quietly ruin coffee and kill machines early. A simple routine prevents both.
Daily: rinse and wipe
Rinse the carafe or portafilter, empty grounds, and wipe the steam wand immediately after each use so milk never dries on. For espresso machines, run a blank shot to flush the group head.
Weekly: deeper clean
Backflush espresso machines with water (and detergent where recommended), wash removable parts, and clean the drip tray. For drip machines, wash the basket and carafe thoroughly.
Monthly to quarterly: descale
Descale every 1–3 months depending on water hardness, using the manufacturer's descaler or a diluted solution as directed. This removes the limescale that causes under-temperature, sour coffee.
Use better water
Filtered or softened water slows scale buildup dramatically and improves flavour. If your water is hard, descale more often and consider a filter.
Signs your machine needs attention
- Coffee tastes sour or weak (often under-temperature from scale).
- Slower brewing or flow.
- Visible scale or a descale warning light.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I descale my coffee machine?+
Every 1–3 months for most homes; more often with hard water or heavy use.
Can I use vinegar to descale?+
It works in a pinch for some drip machines, but a dedicated descaler is gentler on seals and is what most manufacturers recommend — check your manual first.
Kitchen Editor
Elena trained as a barista and has reviewed coffee equipment and small kitchen appliances for over a decade.
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