What are the best cleaning procedures for coffee makers?
Regardless of the type of brewing system you use, it is vital to frequently wash all the parts of the system that you can. Ideally, this should be done after every brewing cycle. Because coffee leaves oils and residue as it brews, it is necessary to use soap and warm water to clean as many parts of the system as is practical (this includes the carafe, brew basket, permanent filters, plungers, mesh screens, etc.). Make sure to thoroughly rinse all of the parts that you wash in the warm soapy water, so that the soapy taste doesnt make it into your coffee. If you live in an area with hard water, the water may leave mineral deposits in the brewing system. Dissolving these deposits may require running a solution of water and vinegar through your system to keep the water passage open for water flow. If you use this solution in your system, make sure to run several carafes of clear water through the system following the solution and before brewing coffee.
