A perfectly brewed cup of espresso can make your day, but a dirty espresso machine can turn a delightful experience into a bitter and unpleasant one. Regular cleaning is essential not only for the taste of your coffee but also for the longevity of your machine. Here are three ways to clean your espresso machine and maintain its performance:

1. Daily Cleaning Routine

To prevent the buildup of coffee grounds, oils, and residue in your machine, adhere to a daily cleaning routine.

– After each brewing session, remove the portafilter and rinse it thoroughly with hot water to remove any residual coffee grounds.

– Wipe the machine’s steam wand with a damp cloth after every use. This prevents milk deposits from forming on the wand.

– At the end of the day, clean the group head by running water through it for 5-10 seconds without using coffee. This helps eliminate any remaining coffee grounds or oils from the group head.

– Empty and wash the drip tray daily to prevent unpleasant odors and keep your machine’s working area clean.

2. Weekly Deep Cleaning

A more thorough cleaning should be performed every week to ensure optimal functioning and taste.

– Remove and clean the shower screen from the group head, paying particular attention to any surrounding areas where coffee grounds may have accumulated.

– Soak the portafilter basket in a mixture of hot water and espresso machine cleaner specifically designed for this purpose.