Hey there, fellow coffee lover! There’s nothing quite like the heavenly aroma and fluffy taste of a well-brewed espresso, right? And if you’re the proud owner of a Breville espresso machine, you’re in for a treat every day. But hold on for a while, did you know? giving your machine a little loving care can make a great difference in your coffee adventures. Espresso machines are essential for making delicious coffee at home.
However, they can be tricky to clean properly. Regularly cleaning your Breville espresso machine can help to improve the taste of your coffee, extend the life of your machine, reduce the need for maintenance such as descaling, and increase hygiene. A clean espresso machine will produce coffee that tastes better. Still, facing a query How to Clean a Breville Espresso Machine?
In this blog post, we are here for all about keeping your machine in tip-top shape covering everything from dealing with water stains to getting rid of mineral buildup. Don’t worry about the cleaning light it’s there as your guide. We will lead you through the simple steps and assist in setting up a straightforward routine.
Why is it important to clean your espresso machine?
Regularly cleaning your espresso machine is necessary for several important reasons. First and foremost, it significantly impacts the taste of your coffee. Over time, oils and residue from coffee beans can gather in the machine, which affects the flavor and aroma of your brew. A dirty espresso machine can produce coffee that tastes sour or bitter. It can also lead to the growth of mold and bacteria, which can make you sick.
Additionally, cleaning your espresso machine is crucial for its longevity and performance. Accumulated grime and minerals can clog parts and affect the machine’s efficiency. Moreover, a dirty machine can be more difficult to use and can be defective more often. By keeping it clean, you’re reducing the risk of malfunctions and breakdowns, and ultimately it extends the lifespan of your Barista level Breville espresso machine.
Frequent cleaning also minimizes the need for maintenance tasks like descaling, which can be a messy and time-consuming process, so it’s better to avoid it if possible and make your coffee routine smoother and stress-free. By following a regular cleaning schedule, you can keep your espresso machine in top condition and enjoy delicious coffee for years to come. Let’s clean your Breville espresso machine in simple and easy steps.
How to Clean a Breville Espresso Machine (Essential Tools)
The specific items you will need will depend on the type of Breville espresso machine you have and the level of cleaning you need to do. For example, if you are only doing basic cleaning, you may not need to use a descaling solution. However, if your machine is heavily used or if you live in an area with hard water, you may need to use a descaling solution more often. Let’s check out tools and their purposes;
| Tool / Item | Purpose of Use |
|---|---|
| Soft-Bristle Brush | Cleans the inside of the portafilter and group head effectively. |
| Pin Cleaning Tool | Clears out holes in the portafilter and group head for optimal flow. |
| Cleaning Tablets/Powder/Solution |
Essential for overall machine cleaning and eliminating calcium deposits. (Descaling) |
| Cleaning Disk | Ensures a fresh steam wand is ready for use. |
| Allen Wrench | Convenient for disassembling parts during your cleaning routine. |
| Soft Fabric Cloth | Dries the machine gently, preventing water spots. |
| Bowl or Pot | Holds cleaning or descaling solution conveniently. |
| Steam Wand Tip Cleaning Nylon Brush | Keeps the steam wand tip free from residue. |
| Water Filter | Removes impurities from water, preventing scale buildup. |
| Cleaning Brush (for any Breville Machine with a grinder) | Cleans grinder burrs to maintain grind quality. |
| Disposable Paper towels | For wiping down surfaces and parts during the cleaning process. |
Surprisingly, many Breville espresso machines come equipped with the essential cleaning tools you’ll need. Some models even feature a storage tray tucked behind the drip tray to neatly organize all your cleaning gear. Note, it is a good idea to use a descaling solution at least once a month, even if you live in an area with soft water.
Regular Maintenance of Your Breville Espresso Machine
You know what’s really cool? Keeping your Breville coffee machine in great shape doesn’t require a science degree. After each coffee adventure, there are a few simple cleaning tasks that work phenomenally for its long-term health and performance. And before we roll up our sleeves for a thorough cleaning session, let’s look at some super-easy habits to follow. These small actions might seem simple, but they’re like magic tricks to keep your machine running smoothly and making delicious coffee.
Step 1: Drip Tray Check
- After each use, perform a quick yet vital check on the drip tray;
- Gently slide out the drip tray located beneath the portafilter.
- Empty any collected water and coffee residue into a waste bin or compost.
- Give the drip tray a rinse with warm water to remove any stubborn stains or coffee oils.
- Dry the drip tray thoroughly before placing it back into the machine.
- This consistent effort prevents any unwanted buildup, maintaining a clean and odor-free interior.
Step 2: Steam Wand Care
- Treat the steam wand with care to ensure optimal performance;
- If you’ve used the steam wand for milk frothing, initiate the steam setting for a few seconds to clear out any remaining milk residues.
- Allow the steam wand to cool down before proceeding.
- Take a soft cloth and wet it slightly with warm water. Gently wipe the exterior of the steam wand to remove any milk splashes.
- Utilize the designated steam wand cleaning tool provided with your machine. Carefully clean the steam wand tip to prevent blockages and ensure consistent steam flow.
- A well-maintained steam wand guarantees efficient milk frothing and a deliciously creamy espresso experience.
Step 3: Filter Basket Farewell
- Pay attention to the filter basket for a consistently great brew;
- After detaching the portafilter, give it a gentle tap over a trash bin to empty any remaining coffee grounds.
- Rinse the filter basket under warm running water, ensuring all coffee particles are thoroughly flushed out.
- Use a soft brush or a toothbrush to gently scrub the basket’s underside and the small holes to remove any remaining residue.
- Wash the filter basket with mild dish soap and warm water to maintain its cleanliness.
- Thoroughly rinse the filter basket and ensure it’s completely dry before reinserting it into the portafilter.
Step 4: Group Head Check
- Keep the heart of your machine, the group head, in top shape;
- After pulling a shot of espresso, remove the portafilter from the group head.
- Activate the shot button (whether manual or preset) to run water through the shower screen and group head. This process cleans the surfaces and clears any leftover coffee particles.
- Use a slightly damp cloth to gently wipe down the group head and the surrounding area. Ensure all residues are effectively removed.
- Allow the group head to air dry before reattaching the portafilter.
Additional Tips for Daily Cleaning
Remember, the key to keeping your Breville espresso machine in top shape is doing things regularly. Besides the main cleaning steps we talked about, there are a few extra things you can do to really take care of your machine. Always remember to empty the drip tray and the knock box after you’re done making coffee. It might sound small, but it makes a big difference in preventing gunk from building up.
How Often You Need to Clean Your Breville Espresso Machine
Usually, it depends on how much coffee you make and the water you use. If you’re making 2 to 5 cups a day, some parts, like the group head and steam wand, should get cleaned once a week. Other stuff like the grinder and water tank can wait about two to three weeks before they need a cleaning. But if your water is really hard or you’re using your machine a lot, you might need to clean things more often.
Additionally, If you use oily coffee beans, you will need to clean your espresso machine more often than if you use lighter roasts.
If your Breville coffee maker doesn’t have a flashing clean light sign, don’t worry. A good plan is to give it a deep clean every 3 to 6 months, especially if you’re in a place with hard water. And if your water is really tough on your machine, consider doing a deep clean every month. This helps prevent stuff like mineral buildup and makes sure all the parts inside are working smoothly, so you get the best-tasting coffee every time.
Here’s a quick guide to make it even easier:
| Water Hardness Level | Coffee Bean Type | Descaling Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Soft (0-60 PPM or 0-3.5 GPG) | Any | Every 3-6 months |
| Moderately Hard (61-120 PPM or 3.6-7.0 GPG) | Light Roast | Every 2-3 months |
| Dark/Oily Roast | Every 1-2 months | |
| Hard (121-180 PPM or 7.1-10.5 GPG) | Light Roast | Every 1-2 months |
| Dark/Oily Roast | Every 1 month | |
| Very Hard (Over 180 PPM or 10.6+ GPG) | Any | Every 2-4 weeks |
Remember, these recommendations are general guidelines. The frequency can vary based on your specific usage patterns and the mineral content of your water. Pay attention to the performance of your Breville espresso machine and adjust the descaling schedule as needed to keep it running smoothly and producing delicious coffee.
Breville Cleaning Cycle
Performing a comprehensive cleaning cycle often referred to as backflushing, is a crucial deep cleaning task that effectively eliminates residual grinds and oil buildup from critical machine components like the shower screen, brew group, and three-way valve. This thorough process guarantees optimal extraction and the finest coffee flavor. Breville, the reputable authority on espresso machines, recommends conducting this intensive cleaning routine every 2-3 months or after brewing approximately 200 cups of coffee.
How do you back flush a Breville coffee maker
| Breville Espresso Machine Model | Cleaning or Backflushing Procedure |
|---|---|
| Breville Barista Pro | 1. Use the grind amount dial to navigate the menu. 2. Find the FLUSH option in the menu. 3. Press the dial to select the FLUSH option. 4. Follow the machine’s prompts to complete the cleaning cycle. |
| Breville Infuser | 1. Press and hold both the 1 Cup and 2 Cup buttons simultaneously. 2. While holding the cup buttons, also press the power button. 3. Keep holding all three buttons for 10 seconds. 4. The cleaning cycle will begin, and the machine will indicate when it’s complete. |
| Breville Duo Temp Pro | 1. Turn the dial to the espresso setting and let it run for about 20 seconds. 2. Turn the dial back to the original position. 3. Repeat the process of turning the dial to the espresso setting and back 5 to 6 times. 4. This process helps to clean the machine’s internal components. |
| Breville Barista Express® | 1. Machine flashes the ‘1-Cup’ and ‘2-Cup’ buttons when cleaning is needed. 2. Insert the grey silicone disk and cleaning tablet into the filter basket and portafilter. 3. Lock the portafilter into the group head. Place container with steam wand in drip tray. 4. Fill water tank to MAX line and lock it in. Press ‘1-Cup,’ ‘2-Cup,’ and ‘Steam’ buttons simultaneously for 5 seconds. 5. ‘1-Cup’ and ‘2-Cup’ buttons light up. Press ‘2-Cup’ to start the cleaning cycle. 6. When complete, all buttons light up. Check tablet. Repeat if needed. 7. Rinse the filter basket and portafilter. |
| Bambino® Plus | 1. Use a grey silicon disc and cleaning tablet in 1-cup filter basket of portafilter. 2. Insert portafilter into group head and turn to hold it in place. 3. Empty drip tray and fill tank with cold water. 4. Press ‘Menu.’ When ‘Clean Cycle’ flashes, press ‘Manual’. 370-second countdown begins. 5. After cleaning, check dissolved tablet. Repeat if needed. 6. Rinse filter basket and portafilter. |
| Breville Dual Boiler™ | 1. Use a grey silicon disc and cleaning tablet in 1-cup filter basket of portafilter. 2. Insert portafilter into group head and turn to hold it in place. 3. Empty drip tray and fill tank with cold water. 4. Press ‘Menu.’ When ‘Clean Cycle’ flashes, press ‘Manual’. 370-second countdown begins. 5. After cleaning, check the dissolved tablet. Repeat if needed. 6. Rinse filter basket and portafilter. |
| The Oracle® | 1. Pop-up message ‘Clean Me’ appears on screen when cleaning is needed. 2. Insert grey silicone cleaning disc and tablet into filter basket. 3. Ensure drip tray is empty, lock portafilter, fill water tank. 4. Press ‘Menu’ and rotate ‘Select’ dial to ‘Clean Cycle’ and ‘Push’. 5. Press ‘Select’ dial to start. Countdown timer displays. 6. After cycle, check dissolved tablet. Repeat if needed. 7. Rinse filter basket and portafilter. |
| Breville Barista Touch and Oracle Touch | 1. Turn on the machine and fill the water reservoir with fresh water. 2. Navigate to the Cleaning Cycle option on the touchscreen display or press the Menu button repeatedly until the Clean Cycle option begins to flash. 3. Select the Cleaning Cycle option and follow the on-screen instructions or press the Menu button to select the Clean Cycle option. 4. Insert a cleaning disk into the portafilter and lock it into place. 5. The machine will begin the cleaning cycle. 6. The cleaning cycle will take about 5 minutes to complete. 7. When the cleaning cycle is complete, the machine will beep and the Cleaning Cycle option will disappear from the touchscreen display or stop flashing. |
Breville Espresso Machine Water Filter Replacement
The water filter in your Breville espresso machine helps to remove impurities from the water, which can improve the taste of your coffee. It is recommended to replace the water filter every 3 months or sooner if you live in an area with hard water.
The Breville Barista Express has a smart system that ensures you’re using top-notch water. The filter it comes with works great for about 90 days or 10.6 gallons. After that, you’ll need a new filter. The process of replacing the water filter in Breville espresso machines can vary slightly depending on the model you have. However, here’s a general guide on how to replace the water filter in most Breville espresso machines;
- Remove the water tank from the espresso machine. Now, find the water filter housing on the machine’s side.
- Turn the water filter housing counterclockwise to take it off. Next, take out the old water filter from the housing.
- Rinse the new water filter under cold water for around 5 minutes. This clears away any dust or stuff on it.
- Put the new water filter into the housing and twist the water filter housing clockwise to lock it in place.
- Put the water tank back into the machine. Remember to fill the water tank with fresh water.
- Attach the water tank back to the espresso machine.
Where to Buy Breville Water Filter
When you’re looking to get Breville water filters, you have several convenient options. First, check out Breville’s official website. They have a wide variety of filters designed for your espresso machine, making it easy to find the right one. Another handy choice is Amazon. They often have good prices and discounts on Breville water filters. Amazon provides a straightforward online shopping experience with many options.
If you’re open to buying used or refurbished filters, you can explore eBay. You can often find great deals there, but it’s essential to be cautious and check the seller’s ratings for a safe purchase. Lastly, consider your local appliance store. They may have Breville water filters in stock. While this option helps you avoid shipping costs, it might take some time and effort to find a reliable local store and make an in-person purchase.
Here are some recommendations from my sight;
Breville BWF100 Single Cup Brewer Replacement Charcoal Filter
Possiave 12-Pack Charcoal Water Filters Compatible with Breville BWF100 Machines
Geesta Premium 6-pack Water Filters, 12.09 x 6.22 x 2.6 inches
You may also like to read;
How to Reset Breville Espresso Machine 2023 Guide
Breville Barista Pro Vs Barista Express
How to Clean Group Head on Breville Coffee Machine
When it comes to your coffee machine’s group head and shower screen, a little regular care goes a long way. Aim to give them attention at least once a week. If your water is particularly hard, it’s a good idea to do this more frequently. Remember, be gentle in your cleaning approach, do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners for cleaning the group head to avoid any potential harm to your machine.
The group head is an important part of your espresso machine. It is where the water is heated and forced through the coffee grounds, creating the espresso that you love. Over time, the group head can become clogged with old coffee grounds and residue, which can prevent the water from flowing smoothly. The shower screen is the part that helps to distribute the water evenly over the coffee grounds.
To clean the group head and shower screen, you will need a soft cloth and warm water. Gently wipe the group head with a cloth to remove any loose debris. If the group head is heavily clogged, you can use a special cleaning solution. Be sure to rinse the group head thoroughly with warm water after cleaning.
How to Clean Grinder on Breville Espresso Machine
Maintaining your Breville espresso machine’s grinder is crucial for preserving coffee quality. Begin by turning off and unplugging the machine. Empty the grinder hopper of beans. Depending on your model, remove the burr responsible for grinding. Use a soft brush to clean the grinder thoroughly, focusing on gaps. If the burr is removable, clean it with a brush. Wipe the pipe where the coffee grounds exit with a dry cloth.
Put the burr back in if removed. Before reassembling, run beans through to clear the residue. Clean the grinder every few weeks to prevent buildup. Check your manual for tailored instructions. Regular upkeep keeps your coffee flavorful and machine-efficient.
For machines with a built-in grinder, cleaning is vital for consistent grinding. Unlock the hopper and remove the beans. Run the grinder until empty. Twist and remove the upper burr. Brush away residual grinds. Clean the grind outlet if present. Never use water or soap on burrs. Reinsert and lock the upper burr and hopper. Your grinder is clean and ready.
Conclusion
In conclusion, caring for your Breville espresso machine isn’t just about making great coffee it’s a commitment to a delightful coffee experience. By regularly cleaning and maintaining your machine, you’re confirming that every cup you brew is a flavorful masterpiece. From simple daily habits to periodic deep cleans, we’ve covered it all in this guide.
By following the cleaning and maintenance tips in this article, you can keep your Breville espresso machine in top condition for years to come. Regular cleaning will help to remove coffee oils and residue, which can build up over time and affect the taste of your coffee. It will also help to prevent limescale buildup, which can damage the machine.
Remember, a clean machine not only enhances the taste of your coffee but also extends the life of your beloved espresso companion. So, follow these easy steps on How to Clean a Breville Espresso Machine. make them a part of your coffee routine, and enjoy the rich rewards of a well-maintained Breville espresso machine.
