Why clean your coffee machine?
Cleaning your coffee machine isn’t just about maintenance – it’s about making sure every cup of coffee tastes as good as it should. Over time, coffee oils and residues build up, which can leave your brew tasting bitter or off. A clean machine means every sip is fresh and full of flavour.
It’s also about keeping your machine in good shape. Limescale from water can clog up your machine, making your machine less efficient and more likely to break down. Regular cleaning helps avoid costly repairs and keeps your machine running smoothly.
And let’s not forget about hygiene. Wet environments like water tanks can be a breeding ground for bacteria and mould. By cleaning regularly, you’re ensuring your coffee is safe to drink.
In short, a clean machine equals better coffee, a longer-lasting machine, and peace of mind that what you’re drinking is not just tasty, but safe.
Components of a coffee machine
Your espresso machine is a bit like a puzzle – every piece plays a part in brewing that perfect shot. Here’s a closer look at the key components and why keeping them clean matters.
Portafilter
This is the handle that baristas lock into the machine’s group head. It holds the coffee grounds. Regularly cleaning the portafilter and the filter basket inside is crucial because old coffee grounds can go stale, spoiling the flavour of your next espresso.
Group head
The group head is where the magic happens – it's the part that connects with the portafilter and distributes hot water through the coffee grounds. Cleaning it regularly prevents coffee build-up, which can block the water flow and mess with your brew.
Steam wand
The steam wand is used to froth milk and needs a quick wipe after each use to stop milk residue from hardening inside. If you skip this step, it can get clogged and affect how well your milk froths.
Boiler
The boiler heats the water to just the right temperature for espresso. Over time, minerals from the water can build up inside, reducing its efficiency. Descaling your machine now and then helps keep the boiler working properly to extract that rich, thick espresso.
Water pump
This pump is what forces water through the coffee grounds at high pressure, giving you robust espresso. If it gets clogged with limescale or debris, the pressure drops, and so does the quality of your coffee. Regular cleaning and descaling help keep it in top shape.
Drip tray
The drip tray is located under the group head to catch spills and overflow. Keeping it clean prevents mould from growing and keeps your machine hygienic.
Water reservoir
The water tank feeds your machine. Cleaning it regularly stops bacteria from growing and ensures your water is pure, which is key to making great coffee.
Each part of your espresso machine needs a bit of TLC to keep it running smoothly. By regularly cleaning these components, you’re not just maintaining your machine – you’re making sure every cup of coffee is as good as the last.
How to clean a coffee machine (and how often)
Certain parts of your machine need regular cleaning and maintenance. Here's what to do (and how often) for a long lasting and clean coffee maker.
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Clean the portafilter and filter basket. After each use, remove the portafilter and filter basket, rinse them under hot water, and brush away any coffee grounds. This prevents stale coffee from affecting your next shot.
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Clean the steam wand. Wipe down the steam wand with a damp cloth after every use to remove milk residue. It helps prevent milk from hardening inside the wand, which could lead to blockages.
Daily
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Wipe down the exterior. At the end of each day, use a damp cloth to clean the exterior surfaces of your machine, including the drip tray. You’ll keep the machine looking clean and prevent dust and dirt from accumulating.
Weekly
- Backflush the group head. Attach a blind filter (a filter basket without holes) to the portafilter, and add a small amount of espresso machine cleaner. Lock it into the group head and run the machine as if you were making an espresso. This process, called backflushing, cleans out any coffee oils and residues inside the group head.
- Deep clean the steam wand. This step is in addition to daily wiping. Once a week, soak the tip of the steam wand in a solution of warm water and a bit of cleaning agent, then run steam through it to clear out any hardened milk inside.
- Check and clean the drip tray. Although you should empty the drip tray regularly, clean it thoroughly weekly with warm, soapy water to prevent mould and bacteria growth.
- Wipe down the group head gasket. The rubber gasket inside the group head can accumulate coffee oils and grounds over time. Wipe it down with a damp cloth or use a small brush to remove any debris that may cause leaks.
Monthly
- Clean the water reservoir. Remove and clean the water reservoir with warm, soapy water once a month to prevent bacterial growth and maintain the purity of your water, which is crucial for good coffee flavour.
After cleaning, reassemble the parts and run a test shot to ensure everything is working smoothly and that there’s no taste of cleaning solution.
Note: Your espresso machine also needs regular descaling (every 3-6 months, depending on your water hardness and usage). Descaling prevents limescale build-up, which can affect the boiler, pipes, and pump. Let’s look at how to descale your machine.
How to clean a coffee machine: descaling
Descaling isn’t just a chore – it keeps your espresso machine working like a dream. It clears out limescale that can mess with your water pressure and temperature, both of which are key to a good shot of espresso.
1. Prepare your descaling solution
Start by filling your machine's water reservoir with the recommended mix of water and descaling solution. If you’re using a store-bought descaler, just follow the instructions on the package.
Alternatively, some people prefer to use a mixture of vinegar and water. While vinegar is effective, it can leave a lingering taste and smell. Make sure your machine’s manual approves the use of vinegar before you proceed.
2. Set up to catch the mess
Place a big container under both the group head (where the coffee comes out) and the steam wand. This will catch the water and descaling solution as it works its way through your machine.
3. Run the machine
Turn on your espresso machine and let it cycle just like you’re making coffee, except this time, it’s cleaning the inside. Don’t forget to activate the steam wand too – this way, the descaling solution gets everywhere it needs to.
4. Give it some time
After the solution has run through, let the machine sit for 15-20 minutes. This gives the descaler time to break down any stubborn limescale hiding inside.
5. Rinse it out
Empty the reservoir and rinse it well. Fill it with clean water, and run the machine again to flush out any leftover descaling solution. You want to make sure there’s no aftertaste in your next cup of coffee. Give it another rinse if you can still smell or taste the descaling solution. Keep going until the water runs clear and fresh.
6. Finish up
Once you’re done, clean the drip tray and water reservoir with warm, soapy water. Rinse them well and pop them back into the machine.
Cleaning vs descaling
Cleaning your espresso machine removes coffee oils, grounds, and milk residues that build up on the machine’s surface and components (like the portafilter, steam wand, and group head). This should be done weekly, daily or after every use to maintain hygiene and coffee quality.
On the other hand, descaling is a process that targets mineral deposits, particularly limescale, inside the machine’s boiler and pipes. Descaling is essential for maintaining the machine’s efficiency and should be done every few months, depending on your water hardness and usage.
Regular cleaning maintains taste and hygiene, while descaling ensures long-term functionality and performance.
How to clean a KitchenAid coffee machine
Cleaning a KitchenAid coffee maker is pretty simple, differing slightly depending on your machine.
Fully Automatic Espresso Machine (KF8)
Here's how to clean your KitchenAid coffee machine, the fully-automatic KF8.
1. Unplug and cool down
Always unplug the machine and allow it to cool completely before starting any cleaning.
2. Use the cleaning menu
The machine’s display guides you through most cleaning and maintenance tasks. Access the Cleaning Menu, select the needed program, and follow the on-screen instructions.
3. Rinse the frother
After making milk-based drinks, immediately rinse the frother. Connect the milk hose to the dispenser, place it in the drip plate, and start the “Easy Milk Rinsing” process.
4. Deep clean the frother
Regularly perform a deep milk cleaning using a milk cleaning detergent. Follow the steps on the display to ensure thorough cleaning. You can also occasionally disassemble the frother for a thorough clean. Wash all parts with soap and water, using a brush if needed, and reassemble.
5. Clean the brew unit
Remove the brew unit by opening the service door. Rinse it under cold water without using detergent, then let it dry. Reassemble the unit and run the cleaning cycle as instructed by the display.
6. Descale the machine
When prompted, or periodically as needed, run the descaling program. Use only recommended descaling solutions and follow the display instructions carefully.
7.Change the water filter
Replace the water filter after 50 litres of water have passed through or when prompted by the machine. Follow the on-screen instructions for replacing the filter and resetting the filter indicator.
Now let’s look at how to clean your KitchenAid semi automatic espresso machine.
Semi Automatic Espresso Machine with Burr Grinder
There are 6 steps to cleaning your semi automatic espresso machine.
1. Unplug and cool down
Before cleaning, always unplug the machine and let it cool completely to avoid any risk of electric shock.
2. Replace the water filter
Soak the new filter for 5 minutes, rinse, place it in the holder, and set the date slider two months ahead. Then, install the filter in the water tank and secure the tank in place.
3. Clean the grinding system
Remove the bean hopper, empty it, and run the grinder until it’s empty. Clean the top and bottom burrs using the cleaning brush or a vacuum. Clean the chute with the wire side of the brush, then wash the hopper and lid with warm soapy water. Dry them thoroughly before reassembling.
4. Clean the brewing system
Wipe down the steam wand with a damp cloth after each use and run a steam purge. Regularly wash the drip tray, portafilter, filter baskets, milk pitcher, and drip tray plate with warm, soapy water, then rinse and dry.
5. Clean the machine housing
Wipe down the exterior, cup warmer tray, accessory storage tray, and group head with a soft, damp cloth.
6. Descale regularly
Descale the machine regularly to remove limescale buildup. Follow the descaling instructions in the manual, which involve running a descaling solution through the machine and rinsing thoroughly.
These steps will keep your espresso machine in great shape so it’s always ready to brew a perfect cup of coffee.
Recap: How to clean a coffee machine
Okay, we’ve covered a lot here. But it’s pretty simple:
- Clean the portafilter, filter basket and steamer after every use.
- Wipe the outside of the machine every day.
- Each week, backflush the group head, wipe the group head basket, deep clean your steamer and wash the drip tray.
- Each month, empty and clean the water reservoir.
- Descale your machine regularly (every 3-6 months depending on your water and usage).
If that sounds doable to you, check out our range of espresso coffee machines and start enjoying a perfect espresso at home. Or learn more about espresso with our guide to espresso vs coffee and what is espresso?
FAQ
What can I use to clean my coffee machine?
You can clean your espresso machine's exterior, portafilter, and steam wand with a soft brush, warm, soapy water, and a damp cloth. For descaling, it's best to use specialised descaling solutions designed for espresso machines. Alternatively, you can use white vinegar mixed with water, but always check your machine's manual first to ensure it's safe.
How to clean mould out of a coffee machine?
To clean mould:
- Disassemble removable parts and wash them with hot, soapy water.
- For non-removable parts, run a cleaning cycle with an appropriate cleaner.
- Ensure all parts, including the water reservoir, are thoroughly rinsed and dried to prevent mould from returning.
Is it okay to descale an espresso machine with vinegar?
Yes, you can descale an espresso machine with vinegar, but it’s important to check your machine’s manual first. While vinegar effectively removes limescale, it can leave behind a strong taste and smell, so thorough rinsing is necessary.
How do you clean an espresso machine without a descaler?
You can clean a coffee machine with vinegar (so long as you check your machine’s manual to confirm whether vinegar is okay to use). Here’s how. If you don’t have any descaler, use a mixture of water and white vinegar. Combine equal parts of each, run the solution through the machine, and then flush it multiple times with clean water to ensure there’s no lingering vinegar taste.
