Is your morning even possible without a cup of coffee? No. Our mornings are impossible without that black magical drink. What if you wake up one morning and brew your coffee with a good mood but it turns out really pathetic?
Notice are you using the same coffee beans as before. If yes, then you may have changed the procedure? No? Oh hell! What is coffee without a great taste? But what’s the reason? Let me clear you. You’re forgetting something. You haven’t cleaned your espresso machine for ages. Yes, it changes the taste of the coffee.
The chalky residue left on the machine builds up and needs descaling. But from where this off white residue comes from? Strange, no? Okay, hold on. It comes from the calcium and magnesium present in the mineral water. The water droplets that are left on the machine, dry out and build up. This slows down the machine and greatly affects the taste of the coffee. If you are stuck about how to clean an espresso machine with vinegar, read on and you’ll get your answer.
Benefits of Descaling an Espresso Machine:
Descaling an espresso machine has a lot of benefits to offer you and your machine. Hence, it is important to descale your machine once a week or at least once a month.
Improves taste:
The calcium build-ups mix in the coffee that you’re brewing when the machine is not descaled. This limescale can badly impact the taste of your coffee.
Saves energy:
The build-ups do not let the water to heat completely. It takes more run time and hence more energy that means a high electricity bill. A descaled, clean espresso machine saves energy and cuts your electricity expenses.
Increases durability:
Limescale also affects the lifespan of your device. It causes disrupted water flow and increased the run time. It also affects the heating element and decreases the durability of your machine. On the other hand, a well-cleaned machine lasts longer.
Step by step guide [ How to clean an espresso machine with vinegar ] :
Now you know how descaling is important and beneficial but how to clean an espresso machine with vinegar? Here is a step by step guide for you.
- First of all, damp a paper towel and wipe all the dirt on your coffee machine.
- Next pour some hot water in the water reservoir like you’re brewing 3-4 cups of coffee.
- Turn on the machine and let the water run for a minute.
- Then add vinegar by 1/4th of the hot water. Some also recommended not to dilute the vinegar.
- Again turn on the machine. Let it run for 5 minutes. And then discard it.
- Now add some plain water again and run it for another minute. Discard the water.
- Repeat the cycle until the water gets crystal clear.
- Once you see no residues in the water. Dry the machine with a paper towel and then let it air dry.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use vinegar to descale the espresso machine?
Yes, you can use vinegar to descale the espresso machine. It is a very safe and easy method to clean the machine. Moreover, vinegar is affordable, you don’t have to spend dollars to get it. It is easily available everywhere. It quickly removes the stains and oils stuck at the surface.
2. Can I clean my Nespresso machine with vinegar?
Any coffee machine can be cleaned with the vinegar method prescribed above. Follow the right method and it is safe to do. Remember, different Nespresso machines work differently. Some can be turned on by pressing one button. Some get on by holding the button for some seconds. Even some models require to press two buttons at the same time.
3. Can I use vinegar to descale my Breville espresso machine?
Yes, you can use vinegar to descale the Breville espresso machine. It comes with a filter. Remove the filter whenever you brew the coffee. Empty the grounds residue and soak it in the plain water. Fill the water reservoir with half white vinegar and half plain water. Turn on the machine. Let it run for 5 minutes and then discard the water.
4. Is descaling solution better than vinegar?
No, the descaling solution isn’t better than vinegar. But yes, some espresso machine brands recommend a specific descaling solution, go for it instead of using a vinegar solution. Vinegar is a safe and effective method. But don’t forget, it is acetic acid that may damage the interior of the machine. So it’s better to read your instructions manual before proceeding.
5. How much vinegar do you use to descale a Nespresso machine?
It is recommended to use half vinegar and half water to make the cleaning solution. But some devices may get damaged due to the vinegar. However, it is rare to happen. Still, for some precautions, you should use 1/3 rd vinegar of the water you have used.
Final thoughts:
We hope this blog helped you find out the method ’How to clean an espresso machine with vinegar’. Descaling is important for both the taste of your coffee and the durability of the machine. So give it a go every month.
