Coffee Machine Revival: 2 Easy Steps to a Fresh Brew

Cleaning the exterior of a coffee machine with Figgy & Co Everyday Spray

How to Clean Your Coffee Machine for the Best Brew

Calling all coffee lovers, let’s clean your coffee machine! Whether you’re the type who can’t start the day without that first cup or someone who savours every sip like a fine wine, your coffee machine is a crucial part of your daily routine. But here’s the thing—if you’re not giving your machine the TLC it deserves, your coffee might not be living up to its full potential. A clean coffee machine doesn’t just keep things running smoothly; it also ensures that every brew is as delicious as it should be. So, if you’re wondering how to clean a coffee machine properly, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty with a simple, two-phase process that is great for Nespresso and café style coffee machines too: first you clean, then you descale.

Phase 1: Cleaning Your Coffee Machine

Cleaning the Coffee machine exterior with Figgy & Co's Everyday Spray

First things first, let’s get that exterior sparkling. Start by giving the outside of your coffee machine a good wipe down. Focus on the buttons, joins, and any spots that tend to collect grime. Our Everyday Spray is perfect for this—just a few spritzes and a wipe, and you’re done. It’s a quick step that makes a big difference in keeping your machine looking its best.

Next, it’s time to tackle the bits that get the dirtiest. Start by removing any washable attachments like the handle, basket, and any other parts that can be taken off.

These areas can get pretty grubby with coffee oils and especially milk residue, so a thorough soapy wash is in order. Pay extra attention to corners and rims, where build-up likes to hide.

If you come across any stubborn muck, our Figgy Cleaning Paste is your go-to—it’ll make short work of those tough spots. And don’t forget about your milk wand or frother! These need love too, so give them a good clean – with a soak if needed to help soften the built up muck.

If your machine has a group, clean it with your group cleaner or a bit of oxygen bleach as usual.

Phase 2: descaling your coffee machine

Preparing Citric Acid to descale a coffee machine

Now, let’s move on to descaling—this step is essential for keeping your coffee machine running smoothly and your coffee tasting great. Descaling removes the build-up of water minerals inside your machine, which can affect both the performance of your machine and the flavour of your coffee.

1. Start by filling your water canister with warm water, and add 1-2 tablespoons of citric acid per litre. Stir until the citric acid is fully dissolved.

2. Run this solution through your coffee machine as if you were making a cup of coffee. The first few times, you might notice the water coming out looking pretty grimy—this is totally normal. In fact, it’s a sign that the descaling process is doing its job. If the water is still looking murky after a few runs, you might need to repeat the process until it runs clear. The goal here is clear (or mostly clear) water.

3. Once the descaling is done, rinse out the water canister with fresh water, refill it, and run the clean water through your machine. This final rinse will flush out any remaining citric acid residue, leaving your machine fresh and ready to go.

Note: Citric acid descaling is suitable for thermo block machines (most home machines, including Nespresso), but it’s always a good idea to check your machine’s manual just to be sure.

Running Citric Acid mix through a coffee machine to descale it

Enjoy Your Brew!

And there you have it—a sparkling clean coffee machine with no harsh chemicals and no lingering aftertaste, ready to brew your next perfect cup. So go on, make yourself a coffee, put your feet up, and savour that delicious, freshly brewed flavour.

TIP: Always refer to your machine’s manual for specific instructions—if you don’t have it handy, a quick Google search should do the trick.

Happy brewing!

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