Whether you take your coffee black, with frothy milk, with sugar, or even iced, it's safe to say it's often the first move you make in the morning. This is why it's key to learn how to clean your best Nespresso machine, to make sure that it stays the "best" and that the coffee you're drinking daily is as clean and fresh as it should be.
Nespresso's pod brewers are among some of the best espresso machines out there thanks to their simplicity and coffee quality. And as it turns out, they're just as easy to clean as they are to use.
There are two levels of cleaning to keep in mind: a weekly clean is important, but it's also good to know how to descale a Nespresso machine for a deeper clean. Read on for our step-by-step guide.
- Water
- Washing-up liquid
- Scrubbing brush
- Towel / Paper towel
- Large glass
Per the advice on Nespresso's App and website, you should run the cleaning cycle through your machine weekly. This will help ensure that the filter is clean and removes any unwanted coffee build-up. By keeping on top of weekly maintenance, you stand a better chance of keeping your machine in great working condition.
How to clean a Nespresso machine: Quick steps
- Rinse, clean, and refill the tank
- Open the lid and eject the capsule
- Rinse the cup support
- Place a large glass on the support
- Run a cleaning cycle
- Push the button once complete
How to clean a Nespresso machine: Step-by-step guide
1. Rinse, clean, and refill the tank
Before you start the process, it's wise to use this as an opportunity to clean your water tank. If you're anything like me, this isn't on the chore list as often as it should be. Empty any existing water and clean it with washing-up liquid and a scrubbing brush. Then, refill it with warm water and place it back on the machine.
2. Open the lid and eject the capsule
It's recommended that you eject the capsule after each use. Before you start your cleaning routine, make sure it's ejected into the holder - while you're at it, use this as an opportunity to empty any old capsules and clean out the pot.
3. Rinse the cup support
Whether it's dust or coffee granules, a lot of dirt and grime can build up in the cup support tray. Give this a quick rinse under the tap and dry off softly with a towel.
4. Place a large glass under the dispenser
Get ready to start the cleaning process by placing a large glass under your machine. You want it to be able to hold as much water as possible, so it's best to opt for a large glass as opposed to your favorite mug.
5. Run a cleaning cycle
Now, all you need to do is start your cleaning cycle - but different Nespresso machines do this differently. On many Original machines, all you have to do is run water through the tank by pressing the large cup button until the water has cleared through a few times.
On the Vertuo machines, you'll have to press the big button on the top three times within the space of two seconds until it turns orange. Once it flashes orange, it should start to draw the water through the system into your cup. It's likely to come out as a murky brown color at first, so just keep emptying and refilling the cup until it runs clear.
Look up what Nespresso machine you have to find out the best way to run a cleaning cycle.
6. Push the button once complete
Once the water in the tank has flushed through the machine, you can go ahead and push the button once more to stop the process (if you're using a Vertuo machine). This means the cleaning process is complete, and you can enjoy your next fresh cup of coffee! This is also a great time to wipe down the exterior of your coffee maker to keep it looking fresh.
