So, do you have an espresso machine that has become dirty from repeated daily use? How to clean an espresso machine is the last question that comes to mind.
First of all, before we get into the actual problem of cleaning an espresso machine or anything we want to bring to your attention, an espresso machine needs to be cleaned every day. Not only does it look good and functional for longer, but when people see it in the home, they ask how you keep it, not why not.
Accordinglygood housekeeping, cleaning an espresso machine can extend the life of your machine.
Over time and with multiple uses throughout the day, debris builds up in nooks and crannies that are difficult to remove. This makes your machine run less, temporarily blocking the flow of coffee and requiring more expensive ways to get it running again. To avoid this, we recommend that you generally clean your machine on a daily basis.
In this article we will talk about the process of daily cleaning and monthly cleaning and descaling.
Be sure to get some great tips and tricks and some FAQs at the end.
Regular maintenance of the espresso machine
1. Turn off: Pull the plug out of the socket and do not leave it there.
We don't want you to get involved in accidents and touch the machine even with slightly wet hands. Make sure you dry them completely. Many people do this with wet hands and end up electrocuted.
2. Start cleaning the external parts. You can use a cloth or wet wipe if you like. Clean the body of your espresso machine and remove any dirt. You can also use any cleaning solution. We recommend you use a spray method to effectively spread the solution over a larger area. Do not use soap or detergent solution as soap is difficult to remove and you do not want to get the machine wet as it is dangerous. The best way to remove all of the dirt if there isn't a build up of spilled coffee is to use a rag.
3. Always empty the used coffee grounds afterwards. Since you're not using the previously used coffee grounds (which we don't think you should be), throw them out of the basket and wash them. The next step is to give the basket a good clean to remove all the coffee grounds.
4. Clean the drip tray. It's easy to leave it like that after each shot, but it won't be a good idea in the long run. All you have to do is remove the drip tray, rinse with water and then dry or clean. To remove trapped or accumulated coffee grounds, we recommend storing them in a solution of vinegar and water or baking soda and water. Leave it there for a while for best results.
5. Change your filters regularly. Using an old filter may not give good results. Try replacing your coffee filters for a smooth, less-textured coffee every time. In addition, the use of old filters can leave the drink with a not very pleasant taste and leave a strange aftertaste in the mouth.
6. Wash the portafilter. Rinse under running water to remove dirt and coffee grounds. Also, wipe the exterior gently with a damp cloth. However, we recommend washing everything under water, including the cable. It will save your time.
7. Take a blank photo. Run the hot water where the coffee was. This will help you remove deposits that build up with regular use. You don't have to call anyone to help you get in.
8. This will also further clean the filter and portafilter of any remaining debris. Make sure you set a cup to catch the hot water so it doesn't overflow.
Now that we know how to clean your espresso machine regularly, let's understand how to clean it after a few weeks, maybe 2-3 months.
Thoroughly clean the espresso machine
As long as you're an avid espresso machine user and use it daily, a thorough cleaning session is in order. A great deep clean will extend the life of your espresso machine. Generally they last around 2-3 years considering you typically use them with a deep clean every 3-4 months. Let us walk you through the steps to do it.
1. Descale the machine with a stream of vinegar. Just like you took a blank shot to clean the inside of the machine, mix some vinegar in water and take a shot. The vinegar will loosen the coffee buildup in places you can't reach and kill the microbes too. You can also buy an espresso machine cleaner and use it with water.
2. Separate the detachable part. The drip tray, filter holder, water tank and others. All of these parts must be washed or cleaned separately for best results. Allow to dry a little after washing. Please do not use them while soaking them in water or getting them wet in any way.
Frequently asked questions:
How do I clean the espresso machine with vinegar?
Cleaning the espresso machine with vinegar is quite easy. Make a 1:1 vinegar/water solution. Run the solution through the machine and let the cycle end. After the process is complete, run the water to fully rinse the machine.
How do you make a descaling solution?
Since this is a fundamental solution, it must be in controlled proportions. Especially vinegar should be equal to or less than the amount of water. The correct amount we suggest is widely accepted, which is 50/50. Mix 50% water with 50% vinegar and make a mixture. Pour into water container and drink.
Which detergent is suitable for best results?
Any detergent will do. You can also use normal water with a cloth for cleaning. It is best to fill the water into a spray bottle so that you use less water in a controlled manner. Second, to prevent water from entering the inlets and outlets of the machine, which are the electrical parts. Please avoid getting the plug wet and instead we ask that you unplug the device first for your safety.
Can I use my espresso machine after deep cleaning?
Yes, you can use your Breville espresso machine after a deep clean.
After it dries completely, you can use it as usual. If you use it without drying it, the vinegar can change the flavor of your coffee, which isn't a preference.
How often should a descaling solution be used?
Make sure your espresso machine is cleaned at the end of each day as directed. This is important to maintain hygiene and extend the life of your machine. Milk residue and coffee grounds/beans can restrict the flow of coffee into the cup and leave a bad taste. This may be due to dirt and bacterial growth.
We want to give you a pro tip to not regularly descale your machine but to clean it when we start to save time. This will do the opposite of extending the life of your machines, and you certainly don't want that.
We are sure that if you follow the steps and tricks diligently, you can keep your machine longer and perform better.