December 2, 2023
How To Clean a Keurig Coffee Maker
How to Clean a Keurig Coffee Maker:
A Step-by-Step Guide
Coffee lovers know the joy of a fresh, hot cup of coffee in the morning. But when was the last time you cleaned your Keurig coffee maker? Regular cleaning not only extends the life of your machine but also ensures your coffee tastes great every time. Here’s your comprehensive guide to cleaning your Keurig, ensuring it delivers the perfect brew day after day.
Start with the Basics
Unplug and Disassemble: Safety first – unplug your Keurig before starting. Disassemble removable parts: the water reservoir, lid, drip tray, and K-cup holder. These components are where coffee and tea residue can accumulate, potentially affecting your machine’s performance and your brew’s taste.
Soak and Clean Removable Parts: Use warm, soapy water to soak and clean the removable parts. A gentle, non-abrasive cloth works best for scrubbing away any coffee grinds or tea leaves. Rinse thoroughly to ensure no soap residue remains.
Deep Cleaning the Machine
Descale Your Keurig: Over time, calcium deposits, or scale, can build up in your coffee maker, affecting its performance. Fill the water reservoir halfway with white vinegar and the rest with water. Turn on your Keurig and perform a brewing cycle without a K-cup inserted, discarding the vinegar-water mixture after it dispenses. Repeat until the reservoir is empty. This process helps remove calcium deposits and any lingering tastes or odors.
Rinse Thoroughly: After descaling, refill the reservoir with fresh water and run several brewing cycles to rinse any vinegar residue. Make sure the water that dispenses no longer smells like vinegar.
Cleaning the Needle
Safety Reminder: Always ensure your Keurig is unplugged before cleaning the needle to avoid injury.
Clean the Entrance and Exit Needles: The entrance needle is where the hot water flows into the K-cup, and the exit needle is where your coffee comes out. Use a paperclip to gently remove any coffee grinds or debris clogging the needles. Be gentle to avoid damaging the needles.
Reassembling and Final Touches
Wipe Down the Machine: With a damp, soft cloth, wipe down the machine’s exterior. Pay special attention to areas where coffee or tea might have spilled.
Reassemble and Plug In: Once all parts are clean and dry, reassemble your Keurig. Fill the water reservoir with fresh water, plug in the machine, and it’s ready for use.
Maintenance Tips for Your Keurig
Regular Cleaning: Make cleaning your Keurig a regular part of your routine. A thorough cleaning every 2-3 months, depending on usage, can significantly extend its lifespan and ensure your coffee always tastes fresh.
Use Filtered Water: Using filtered water not only improves the taste of your coffee but also reduces the likelihood of mineral buildup in your machine.
Keep It Dry: After use, leave the Keurig’s lid open to air dry, preventing mold and bacteria growth.
