How to Clean a Coffeemaker Without Chemicals

There are two primary methods of “green cleaning” your coffee machine. Both are simple, economical and environmentally friendly. The first method uses plain white vinegar, and the second uses baking soda. Because the two substances will react if mixed together, use only one method at a time. For best results, repeat the cleaning process once a month.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Paper coffee filters
• 1 quart white vinegar
• Clean cold water

Baking Soda Method

1. Insert a new filter into the filter basket of the coffee machine. Combine water and baking soda and stir well to dissolve. Pour water and baking soda mixture into the water reservoir and brew through the machine. Turn off machine and let sit for 30 minutes.

2. After 30 minutes, pour out the baking soda and water mixture and fill the reservoir with clean water. Discard used coffee filter and replace with a fresh one. Brew a full pot of clean water through the machine.

3. Add enough water to 2 tablespoons of baking soda to make a thick paste. Spread on a nonabrasive sponge or a toothbrush and use to clean the inside of the filter basket. Rinse well.

4. Wash the carafe with mild detergent and a nonabrasive sponge. Rinse and dry well before using.

Vinegar Method

5. Insert a new filter into the filter basket of the coffee machine. Fill the water reservoir half full (approximately 1 quart in most machines) with white vinegar. Set the machine to brew. Once the vinegar has brewed through the machine, shut off the machine and let it sit for 30 minutes.

6. After 30 minutes, pour out the vinegar and fill the reservoir with clean water. Discard the used coffee filter and replace with a fresh one. Brew a full pot of clean water through the machine.

7. Wash the carafe and filter basket with mild detergent and a nonabrasive sponge. Rinse and dry well before using.