How to Clean an Expresso Maker

Clean an espresso maker often to keep your espresso tasting fresh.

Espresso machines often indicate when they need to be cleaned with a light. If your espresso machine does not indicate that it needs to be cleaned, then you may notice that the espresso has an odd taste. The machine needs to be cleaned regularly to protect the taste of the espresso and to prolong the espresso maker's life. Cleaning your espresso maker often will remove water scale and old espresso grounds from the machine so that it operates properly.

Things You'll Need

• Damp washcloth
• Liquid dishwashing soap
• Paper towels
• White vinegar
• Water

Instructions

1. Shut the espresso maker off. Unplug the machine and allow it to cool down if you recently used it.

2. Locate the manufacturer's instructions that came with the espresso maker. Read the instructions to ensure that the espresso maker does not have any special cleaning instructions.

3. Wipe the espresso machine with a damp washcloth to remove any loose debris on the exterior. Remove the steam nozzle and filter basket, and rinse them off under warm water.

4. Wash the nozzle and filter basket with a liquid dishwashing soap, and then rinse them off again. Pat them dry with paper towels.

5. Fill the reservoir of the machine with one part vinegar and one part cool water. Plug the espresso machine in and turn it on. Allow it to run for 30 minutes, and then empty the reservoir.

6. Pour cool water into the espresso maker to flush out the vinegar. Run the espresso maker for two full cycles.

7. Prepare the espresso maker to brew a cup of fresh espresso. Pour this espresso out, and then you can use your espresso maker safely.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not submerge an espresso maker in water.

• Never use soap to clean the inside of the espresso maker.

References

• Another Coffee: Cleaning Your Espresso Machine
• Espresso Guy: Cleaning an Espresso Machine