We all want the freshest, tastiest shot of espresso when we’re craving one, whether it comes from a coffee shop or is made at home. The flavour of your coffee may have changed if you’ve been using a Nespresso coffee maker for a long time. This generally indicates that you need to clean your machine. In this write-up, we will discuss How to clean nespresso machine in 4 different methods and the benefits of it. 

how to clean nespresso machine?

Method 1: Descaling 

Descaling your Nespresso machine helps remove mineral deposits and buildup from the internal parts. You should descale your machine every 3-6 months depending on your water hardness and usage. Here are the steps:

• Purchase Nespresso descaling solution or citric acid powder. 
• Empty the water tank and add the descaling solution. For citric acid, mix 1 tsp with 12 oz of water. 
• Place a large container under the coffee outlet. Turn on your machine and run the descaling cycle per the instruction manual. This will run hot water through to dissolve the buildup.
• When the descaling cycle is complete, empty the container. Rinse the water tank thoroughly and refill with fresh water. 
• Run 2-3 cycles of just water through to rinse any remaining descaling solution. Discard the rinse water after each cycle.
• Your Nespresso machine is now descaled and ready to brew coffee again!

Method 2: Backflushing

So, how to clean nespresso machine? Backflushing with cleaning capsule is a great ways to do it. Backflushing pushes water through the internal system backwards to clean the brewing components. Do this every 1-2 months. Here’s how:

• Purchase the Nespresso cleaning capsules or make your own using an empty capsule. 
• Insert the cleaning capsule and place a container under the outlet. 
• Press and hold the Lungo button for 5 seconds to start the backflushing cycle. Let it complete fully. 
• Repeat steps 2-3 two more times with fresh cleaning capsules. This ensures a thorough backflushing.
• Remove the capsule, rinse the water tank and run 2 cycles of just water to rinse any cleaning residue. 
• Your Nespresso is now backflushed and ready for use again.

Method 3: Cleaning the Drip Tray

The drip tray collects spills and should be cleaned to prevent mould, odours and overflow. Follow these steps:

• Remove the drip tray by gently pulling it out from the machine. 
• Empty the drip tray contents and rinse it thoroughly with water.
• If needed, wash it with mild dish soap and rinse well. Be careful not to submerge the whole tray in water. 
• Wipe down the area under the drip tray with a damp cloth.
• Let the drip tray dry fully before sliding it back into the Nespresso machine. 

Method 4: Cleaning the Water Tank

If you are wondering how to clean nespresso machine, you can try the water tank cleaning method. This can prevent mold, bacteria or mineral buildup. Here’s how to do it:

• Remove the water tank by lifting it up and away from the machine. 
• Use a mild detergent and soft sponge to gently wash the inside of the tank. Do not use abrasive scrubs. 
• Rinse the tank thoroughly with clean water several times to remove soap residue. 
• Fill the tank half way and add 2 tbsp of baking soda. Shake vigorously and rinse again. 
• Wipe the outside of the tank dry with a soft cloth. 
• Place back into the Nespresso machine for use. 

Benefits of Cleaning Nespresso Machine

Now that you know how to clean nespresso machine, let’s have a look at the benefits of it. 

Prevents Mineral Buildup

Hard water contains minerals like calcium and magnesium that get deposited and build up in your machine’s internal tubing, pumps and other components. Regular descaling with citric acid or other solutions helps remove this scale buildup and maintain proper water flow.

1. Reduces Mould and Bacteria 

The moist, coffee-stained areas of your Nespresso like the water tank, drip tray and used capsule container are prone to mould, bacteria and germs if not cleaned. Doing things like emptying the drip tray, wiping down surfaces and descaling the tank prevents nasty growths.

1. Maintains Original Coffee Flavour

Over time, mineral deposits and coffee residue can coat components and alter the original flavour profile. Keeping your Nespresso sparkling clean through backflushing, descaling and rinsing ensures you get the same great tasting coffee time after time.

1. Cleans Brewing System

Parts like the brew unit, pumps and valves need cleaning too, especially from oily coffee residue. Backflushing pushes hot water backwards through the system to clean the brew unit while descaling dissolves buildup in valves and tubing.

1. Prolongs Machine Life 

Following the manufacturer’s recommendations removes damaging scale, oils and residues that can shorten the lifespan of a Nespresso. Doing preventative cleaning gives your machine a long, trouble-free life.

1. Avoids Malfunctions

Mineral buildup can lead to problems like leaking, odd noises, error codes and other glitches over time. Sticking to regular maintenance keeps components like sensors, valves and tubing in good working order.

Conclusion

Knowing how to clean nespresso machine allows you to extend its longevity. Following the above mentioned easy methods every few weeks keeps your machine running optimally for great tasting coffee every time. Be sure to refer to the instruction manual for your specific Nespresso model for any other cleaning recommendations. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Q: Can I use bleach or abrasives to clean my Nespresso? 

A: No, never use harsh chemicals or abrasives on your Nespresso machine. Use mild detergent and soft cloths only.

Q: How can I keep my Nespresso machine clean daily? 

A: Rinse water tank daily, empty drip tray, wipe down surfaces and store capsules in a sealed container.

Q: How often should I descale my Nespresso machine? 

A: You should descale your Nespresso every 3-6 months depending on water hardness and usage. Descaling removes mineral buildup.

Q: What’s the best way to store my Nespresso if not using it for a while? 

A: Before extended non-use, do a descaling and backflushing cycle. 

Q: Why is my Nespresso leaking?

A: Leaking is often caused by scale buildup or a damaged o-ring seal.