Coffee Maker Care & Maintenance

How to Clean and Care for Your Coffee Maker (So Every Cup Tastes Fresh)

A neglected coffee maker doesn't just look grimy — it makes bitter, off-tasting coffee and wears out faster. A little routine care keeps every cup fresh and your machine running for years.

The daily rinse

After each use, empty the grounds, rinse the carafe and filter basket, and wipe down the machine. Standing water and old grounds breed bacteria and stale oils that taint your next brew — a 60-second rinse prevents it.

Descale regularly

• Mineral scale builds up inside every machine and slows brewing over time.
• Descale every 1–3 months with a descaling solution or a vinegar-water mix, then run two cycles of clean water to rinse.
• If you have hard water, descale more often.

Clean by part

• Glass carafe: wash with warm soapy water; remove stains with baking soda.
• Stainless steel: wipe the exterior with a damp cloth and dry to avoid spots.
• Filter basket & reusable filter: rinse thoroughly to clear trapped oils.
• Espresso group head & steam wand: wipe the wand after every use and backflush as the maker advises.

Keep it brewing well, not just clean

• Don't leave coffee sitting on a hot plate — it scorches and stains.
• Replace worn gaskets, filters, and carafes before they fail.
• Empty and dry the machine if it won't be used for a while.