How to Clean an Espresso Machine

Your espresso machine routinely needes cleaning.   This is necessary to keep your morning java tasting fresh and delicious.

Instructions

• STEP 1: Turn the machine off and unplug it before getting started.
• STEP 2: Carefully read and follow the manufacturer's instructions that came with your espresso machine.
• STEP 3: Wipe off the outside of the machine with a damp cloth.
• STEP 4: Backflush the machine as often as is recommended by the manufacturer. This should be done about twice a week.  (To BACK FLUSH, USE THE RUBBER GASKET, PUT A ¼ TEASPOON OF CLEANER IN BASKET, TURN ON POWER, PUMP AND DRAIN THE LIQUID. YOU MUST DO IT SEVERAL TIMES IN ORDER FOR A GOOD CLEAN)
• STEP 5: Unscrew the group head using a screwdriver. Remove it.
• STEP 6: Scrub the parts of the group head, including the screen and the brass dispersion plate, with a brush and plain water until everything is clean. You may have to soak these parts overnight in water mixed with an espresso machine cleaner.
• STEP 7: Clean the milk wand with a damp cloth, or remove it and soak in warm water to remove milk residue. If needed, use a pipe cleaner to remove residue inside the wand, and a pin or paper clip to unclog the steam hole.
• STEP 8: To decalcify the interior, run a mixture of one part white vinegar water to one part water through the machine. Following this, run plain water through the machine two or three times.
• STEP 9: Reassemble the machine.