As the days grow longer and the air fills with the promise of spring, it’s the perfect time to refresh your coffee routine—starting with your equipment. Over time, coffee oils, mineral buildup, and residue can affect the taste of your brew, making a deep clean essential for ensuring the freshest, most flavorful coffee. Whether you use a French press, espresso machine, or drip brewer, giving your gear a thorough refresh will bring out the best in every cup.
Why Spring Clean Your Coffee Equipment?
Just like any well-loved kitchen tool, coffee makers and accessories accumulate grime over time. Old coffee oils can turn rancid, mineral deposits from water can clog up your machine, and leftover grounds can impact the purity of your brew. A good cleaning not only enhances flavor but also extends the life of your coffee equipment.
How to Clean Your Coffee Gear
Drip Coffee Makers
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Descale with Vinegar or a Descaling Solution: Run a cycle with a mix of equal parts vinegar and water (or use a descaler). Follow with two cycles of clean water.
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Wash the Removable Parts: The carafe, filter basket, and other removable parts should be washed with warm, soapy water.
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Wipe the Exterior: Use a damp cloth to remove any dust or grime on the outside.
French Press
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Disassemble & Rinse: Take apart the plunger and screen, discarding any trapped coffee grounds.
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Deep Clean the Filter: Soak the mesh filter in warm, soapy water, then scrub gently with a brush.
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Rinse Thoroughly: Make sure no soap residue remains, as it can alter the taste of your coffee.
Espresso Machines
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Backflush the Machine: Run a backflush cycle with a cleaning tablet to remove oils and coffee buildup from the internal components.
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Descale the Boiler: If your machine uses hard water, descale it to prevent mineral buildup.
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Clean the Steam Wand: Purge and wipe down the steam wand after every use to prevent milk residue from clogging it.
Grinders
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Brush Out Old Grounds: Use a grinder brush to remove stale coffee particles from the burrs.
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Run Through Some Rice or Grinder Cleaner: Grinding a small amount of uncooked rice or a grinder cleaner can help absorb oils and remove residue.
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Wipe the Exterior: A damp cloth will keep your grinder looking fresh and clean.
Don’t Forget Your Reusable Filters & Mugs
If you use a reusable coffee filter, soak it in a mix of warm water and baking soda to remove any lingering oils. Insulated travel mugs and reusable coffee cups should also get a deep clean with baking soda or vinegar to keep them fresh and odor-free.
Enjoy a Fresh Start to Spring
A clean coffee setup means a cleaner, more vibrant brew—just in time to enjoy those crisp spring mornings with a fresh cup in hand. Whether you’re brewing a bold dark roast or a bright, floral single-origin coffee, you’ll taste the difference when your gear is properly maintained.
Ready to brew better? Check out our selection of freshly roasted organic coffees and bring the best flavors to your next cup!