Content

• Advice
• Warning
• What you need

Mix 1 part vinegar with 2 parts water unless otherwise stated in the instruction manual. However, some machines recommend using less vinegar in the cleaning solution. You can find the amount of vinegar to use in your coffee machine's instruction manual or online.

• You can use 1/3 of your usual vinegar if your machine manufacturer requires less vinegar.

Make a vinegar solution. Make a solution with 1 part white vinegar and 1 part warm water. If the manufacturer requires less vinegar, use the recommended amount. Pour the solution directly into the coffee container. Mix sufficient amount of solution to fill the water tank fully. advertisement

Part 2 of 3: Cleaning the coffee machine

1. 

   
   
   Run the machine half a phase cycle. Press the brew button once you have poured the vinegar solution into the compartment. Keep track of the coffee machine to run to prevent it from running out of cycle. Press the stop button when the machine is running halfway through the phase.
   • You can choose the cleaning mode instead of the normal phase cycle if it has this mode. Automatic cleaning allows different parts of the machine to come into contact with the cleaning solution.

2. 

   Complete phase cycle. Continue running the machine after having soaked for one full hour. Let the rest of the solution run through the coffee machine. You may see a brown or white streak in the solution. This is a normal phenomenon, indicating that the vinegar solution is working effectively. advertisement

Part 3 of 3: Flushing of coffee makers

1. 

   
   
   Pour out the vinegar solution. After the coffee machine has run the full brew cycle, pour the solution into the sink. If there is a little solution left in the machine, it's okay.

2. 

   Flush the coffee jars thoroughly with water. Use water and soap to clean the coffee cans. You can use a dishwashing sponge to scrub or rinse the soap solution vigorously in the jar. Discard the soapy water and rinse the wash water one last time to remove any bubbles.

3. 

   
   
   Pour clean water into the coffee jug after washing is complete. Do not mix vinegar in water. Use the maximum amount of water the coffee machine can make.

4. 

   Run the machine for three phase cycles. Press the start button to start mixing with clean water. Let the machine run all the time. Then, repeat 2 more phase cycles. After each phase cycle, you will discard the water and refill the tank with fresh water. Allow the machine to rest for three to five minutes between cycles.
   • Consider running the machine for 1-2 extra cycles mixed with warm water if you still smell the vinegar.

   

   Wash the outside of the coffee machine with soap and water. Discard the water after the last phase cycle. Then, remove the coffee jug and filter basket from the machine. Use a soft cloth to wipe the entire exterior of the machine with a little soapy water. Rinse everything off after you finish wiping it off.
   • Be sure to wipe off any stains that coffee creates over time.

5. 

   Wash the outside of the coffee machine with vinegar. If you don't want to wash the outside of the coffee machine with soap and water, you can use vinegar. First, you will pour vinegar into a spray bottle. Don't dilute the vinegar. Then, spray the vinegar on a cotton cloth. Use a towel to wipe the outside of the coffee machine. Use more vinegar if needed. Finally, rinse with water.
   • You can use a cotton swab to clean narrow cracks that are hard to reach.

6. 

   Clean the coffee container and filter basket. You can wash coffee jars and filter baskets by hand or put them in the dishwasher.To wash by hand, pour a little detergent into a sponge or rag. Scrub all the coffee jars and filter baskets. Then, rinse off the soap with clean water. If you are using a dishwasher, you should choose a mild washing program.
   • There is a product called Quick n Brite that can deal with the lime stains that build up inside coffee cans. You will pour a little product into the jar, soak for a few minutes before rinsing the water.

7. 

   Replace the coffee machine. Check to make sure there are no mold or minerals left. Return the coffee jug and filter basket back to the machine after you are done washing it. Now, you can make a clean and delicious coffee. advertisement

Advice

• Find “how to de-calc” instructions in your coffee machine's instruction manual.
• The coffee maker manufacturer recommends cleaning your coffee machine at least once per month and de-limeing at least every six months.
• If you are using hard water to make your coffee, you should de-lime more often.

Warning

• Failure to clean the coffee machine for at least six months can cause mold and bacteria to grow.

What you need

• Country
• White vinegar
• Soap for washing dishes
• Dishwasher sponge
• Rag
• Stopwatch