How to Keep Your Espresso Machine Clean
For the average person, an espresso machine is not just an appliance but an investment. The comforting cup of coffee it produces each morning is often considered priceless. However, like every other item in your kitchen, your espresso machine requires regular cleaning and maintenance if you want it to continue serving you fresh cups of coffee. This 787 Coffee blog post aims to provide a comprehensive guide on how to keep your espresso machine clean and well-maintained at home.
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How to Keep Your Espresso Machine Clean at Home
Clean the porta-filter and basket -
Portafilters and baskets are an easy spot for dirt and grounds to accumulate. It is best practice to remove the filter and basket, rinse it under hot water before and after use and wipe both down with a clean dry towel. The porter filter also needs to be scrubbed weekly with a cleaning agent dipped in warm water, rinsed properly and dried with a clean towel. Your espresso machine is designed to handle the high pressure required to make the perfect shot of espresso, but it cannot handle dirt and coffee buildup.
Descale your machine -
The water used to make coffee can have dissolved minerals that can build up inside your espresso machine over time leaving mineral deposits behind. These deposits can create blockages or interfere with the heating elements and reduce brewing quality. You need to descale your machine periodically. Using a descaling solution ensures the removal of mineral buildup from your machine. You can run the descaling cleaner through your machine as per instructed on the packaging that accompanies it and flush with clean water before using it again.
Shine the exterior -
Our focus is not only on what comes out of the machine but also on its outlook. To give your machine the shine it deserves, use a polishing cloth to clean the exterior of the machine after each use. The cloth may be dampened with water or a cleaning agent depending on what is specified in the machine’s manual. Use only cleaning agents recommended for use on the machine and avoid abrasive materials to keep your machine looking sleek.
“Science may never come up with a better office communication system than the coffee break.”
This quote reminds us of the simple pleasures in life, like taking a coffee break, and how it can bring people together and improve communication. It inspires us to appreciate the little things and find joy in the everyday moments.
Checking the Gaskets -
Checking the gasket, a rubber ring around the porta-filter, and group head, is essential to keeping your machine running smoothly. Over time, these gaskets will wear out call for a replacement. Check the manual that comes with the machine to learn how to remove and replace the gasket. Cracked gaskets should be replaced promptly to avoid leaks and poor coffee quality.
Wipe the drip trays -
Finally, wipe down the drip tray in your machine. Residue from brewing coffee, and water in the drip tray could cause your machine to smell. Empty and wipe your drip tray daily and then clean it with warm soapy water every week or two, depending on how frequently you use the machine.
On a final note, suggested by Nathan, Coffee Technician at 787 Coffee, - When it comes to your home espresso machine we recommend backflushing it once a week.
Eso es!
A good espresso machine can be your reliable source for caffeine, but it requires serious cleaning and maintenance efforts from you. With the above maintenance tips, cleaning and maintaining your espresso machine at home will become a more comfortable and efficient routine. By keeping your machine clean and free of buildup, you’ll enjoy a more consistent and fresher tasting espresso every time. So brew a cup of fresh 787 Coffee espresso and trust that your machine is well-kept.
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