If your morning cup of coffee isn’t tasting quite as fresh as it used to—or your machine seems to be working a little harder than usual—it might be time for a descale. Mineral buildup is actually a pretty normal part of using any coffee maker, especially if you live in an area with hard water.
But don’t worry: descaling isn’t complicated, and with the right approach, it can seriously extend the life of your machine and improve the flavour of your coffee.
Here’s everything you need to know about how to descale a coffee machine properly.
So Why Does Descaling Matter?
Over time, minerals like calcium and magnesium from your tap water build up inside your coffee machine. This scale can clog your system, reduce efficiency, and even affect the temperature and flavour of your brew. Descaling clears those mineral deposits and keeps your coffee machine working like new.
How Often Should You Descale?
This depends on your water type and how frequently you use your machine, but here’s a general guide:
- Light use & soft water: Every 3–6 months
- Daily use or hard water: Every 1–2 months
- Machines with built-in alerts: Follow manufacturer prompts
What You’ll Need to Descale
The good news? You don’t really need any fancy tools to descale. You can use:
- A commercial descaling solution (like Dezcal or Urnex)
- Or a DIY option: white vinegar or citric acid
- Fresh water
- A container to catch water (if your machine doesn’t drain into a sink)
Step-by-Step: How to Descale a Coffee Machine
1. Empty Your Machine
Remove any leftover coffee, grounds, or used pods. Empty the drip tray and water tank.
2. Mix the Descaling Solution
If in doubt, follow the instructions on your descaling product. If using vinegar, mix 1 part white vinegar with 1–2 parts water. If using citric acid, dissolve 1 tablespoon in 1 liter of water.
3. Run a Descale Cycle
Pour the solution into your water tank. Start the brew cycle without coffee and let it run halfway. Then pause the machine and let the solution sit for 15–30 minutes to break down mineral deposits.
4. Finish the Cycle
Resume and finish the brew cycle so the entire solution runs through the system.
5. Flush with Clean Water
Rinse the water tank and fill it with clean water. Then, make sure to run 1–2 full brew cycles (without coffee) to remove any descaling residue or vinegar taste.
Descaling Tips by Machine Type
- Espresso Machines: Always remove and clean the portafilter and steam wand too. Some models require a backflush.
- Pod Machines (Nespresso, Keurig): Use branded descaling kits for best results, especially if under warranty.
- Drip Coffee Makers: Don’t forget to clean the carafe, basket, and showerhead as part of your routine.
What Not to Do
- Don’t use bleach or harsh chemicals.
- Don’t skip rinsing—leftover descaler can affect your next brew’s taste.
- Don’t ignore your machine’s maintenance light if it has one.
Final Thoughts
Descaling isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s essential maintenance that helps your coffee taste better and keeps your machine in peak condition. Whether you do it monthly or quarterly, a little care goes a long way.
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