Weak coffee blends are one thing. But, dirty coffee mixed with weak coffee blends produce a sour taste that you really want to avoid. Regardless of whether you have a Piccolo maker or a coffee machine at work that is a little more industrial, our easy-to-follow steps on how to clean a coffee machine (regardless of brand) will ensure that each coffee is as sweet as the next.
How To Clean A Coffee Machine
Just because your coffee tastes a tad off, it doesn’t mean your relationship with your beloved machine has to go down the drain. From lattes in the breakroom during that 3pm office gossip sesh, to slow-sipped cappuccinos on the couch every Sunday morning, your coffee machine has been there for you through thick and thin. Now it’s time to give back! Are you ready to embark on this journey from grubby to gleaming? Let’s dive right in on how to clean an office coffee machine!
To Clean A Coffee Machine, Follow These 8 Simple Steps:
- Step 1: Unplug & Remove Detachable Components
- Step 2: Wash Removable Parts
- Step 3: Clean Machine’s Exterior
- Step 4: Utilise A Descaler or Cleaning Tablets
- Step 5: Run A Water Cycle
- Step 6: Regather The Detachable Coffee Machine Components
- Step 7: Maintain the Machine Regularly
Step 1: Unplug & Remove Detachable Components
First things first, if your coffee machine is powered, unplug it. Getting electrocuted is not a good start to the clean-up process. Plus, if you have an automatic or semi-automatic coffee machine, you don’t want to burn yourself with the pre-boiled water.
Carefully remove the detachable components of the machine where possible, making sure you keep all the small parts in a safe place. Don’t be a daredevil; remember to consult your user manual or give us a call if you’re unsure about any component. One might think, “Ah, this is easy to put back!” until you’ve lost an essential component.
Step 2: Wash Removable Parts
Now that you’ve got access to the important parts, it’s time for a bath! Grab those removable parts, and get to scrubbing. If your machine is an espresso beast, remember to clean the portafilter and filter basket. The coffee grinds have a sneaky way of lingering and can build up over time. Warm, soapy water should do the trick, but for stubborn stains, a soft brush can be your knight in shining armour.
Step 3: Clean Machine’s Exterior
Next, it’s time to give your coffee machine’s exterior some love as well. After all, no one fancies a fingerprint-speckled, coffee-stained appliance. This step is extra important if you’re wondering how to clean an office coffee machine as they’re handled twice as often and will have twice as many smudge marks.
A damp cloth is your weapon of choice for the exterior. Avoid abrasive cleaners or pads – they can scratch your coffee machine, turning it from sleek to bleak. Wipe down the machine gently, paying attention to those sneaky corners where dust bunnies love to party.
Step 4: Utilise A Descaler or Cleaning Tablets
With the superficial cleaning done, it’s time to delve deeper. Meet your new best friend: cleaning tablets and descalers. Unless you have a commercial coffee machine that comes with its own cleaning and descaling solution or even has a cleaning cycle button, these cleaning products are essential parts of your coffee maintenance. To provide a thorough, natural cleanse.
Step 5: Run A Water Cycle
You’ve utilised cleaning and descaling solutions, and it’s done its duty splendidly. But, you certainly don’t want your morning brew tasting like a salad dressing (particularly if it’s a coffee machine within the office!).
It’s crucial to run a full water cycle, or two, or even three until the substance of liquid cleaning is completely gone. Be patient, though. Good things come to those who wait – and you wouldn’t want to skimp on this step.
Step 6: Regather The Detachable Coffee Machine Components
With the cleaning complete, it’s time to put Humpty Dumpty back together again. Remember the detachable parts you carefully set aside? It’s their time to shine. Carefully place back the detachable parts of the coffee machine according to the manufacturer’s instructions, ensuring everything clicks back into place. Check, double-check, and even triple-check – there’s nothing worse than a leaky coffee machine first thing in the morning.
Step 7: Maintain the Machine Regularly
The final step on how to clean a coffee machine and its cleaning journey is also the most important: regular maintenance. It’s easy to put cleaning off, especially when your machine seems to be running just fine. But, trust us, a regular deep clean keeps your machine brewing the best possible coffee and prevents the buildup of coffee residue and limescale but most importantly it extends its lifespan. Aim for a thorough clean every month and a quick wipe-down after each use.
The Final Word On How To Clean A Coffee Machine
And voila! You’ve successfully transformed your grubby coffee machine into a gleaming, coffee-brewing dream. Pat yourself on the back, and brew yourself a well-deserved cuppa. Remember, your coffee machine takes care of your caffeine needs – make sure you take care of it too! Speaking of caffeine needs, now you know how to clean an office coffee machine, why not take the plunge (no pun intended) and contact Corporate Coffee Solutions about getting one for your workplace? We have a huge range of machines suitable for offices and teams of all sizes, so reach out so we can tell you about them!
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