How to Properly Clean Your Coffee Machines
Want the perfect cup of coffee? Your easiest and most effective trick might be something that you wouldn’t think of. We’ll admit that sometimes we question what/when should be cleaned in our own homes. Television remotes, phones, refrigerators, washers, and dryers, etc. but did you know that your coffee machine is supposed to be cleaned after EVERY. SINGLE. USE. Yes, you read that right.
Although it seems like unnecessary work, your morning cup of Joe will be vastly improved by using a clean machine. It’ll also prevent costly repairs and a build-up of pressure to the machine itself. These are simply suggestions and if you have a cleaning method that works best for you or the brand suggests you use a different process, do that! Also, a general rule of thumb that applies to all of these: dispose of the coffee grounds and wait until the machine has cooled down.
French Press - Alright, if you are dedicated enough to have a French Press, it shouldn’t surprise you that it’s a commitment and you need to clean it frequently. For the ground-removal process, avoid using a metal spoon to ensure you won’t break the glass. “Add lukewarm water and a few drops of liquid dish soap. Then, pump the plunger up and down until the water gets foamy. Dump out the soapy water, rinse with clean water, and work the plunger again. Scrub the inside of the carafe with a sponge or bottle brush. Then, rinse again until the water runs clear. Dry out the inside with a clean paper towel, and set the French press aside.”
Pour-Over - **STAIN ALERT** Pour-over coffee makers stain really easily so we found a great way to be the ultimate stain-buster. Simply fill it with warm water and dissolve two effervescent tablets (like Alka-Seltzer) inside. Then rinse and dry. If there are stains on the outside, which is highly likely, you can easily clean it with dish soap or disinfecting wipes.
Keurig - For a simple clean that be done frequently, all you have to do is run the brew cycle a few times without inserting a K-cup. To do a deep clean every few months, they suggest doing what’s called “descaling” to remove calcium deposits that build up over time. Here is a step-by-step guide to the process and where you can buy a descaling solution.
Drip Coffee Maker - This method is really quick and easy! Brew equal parts vinegar and water and then brew just clean to water to remove any excess vinegar. That’s literally it so you really have no excuse to not do it.