Keurig coffee makers are a convenient way to make a fresh cup of coffee, but it is important to keep them clean to ensure that your coffee always tastes its best. In this article, we will go through the steps on how to clean your Keurig coffee maker properly.
Why Clean Your Keurig Coffee Maker?
Over time, mineral deposits, coffee oils, and other impurities can build up inside your Keurig coffee maker. This can lead to a decrease in the quality of your coffee, and even cause your machine to break down. Regular cleaning can help prevent these issues and extend the life of your Keurig coffee maker.
How Often Should You Clean Your Keurig Coffee Maker?
Keurig recommends cleaning your coffee maker every three to six months, depending on usage. However, if you notice a decrease in the quality of your coffee or if your machine is not working properly, it may be time to clean it sooner.
How to Clean Your Keurig Coffee Maker
Here are the steps to clean your Keurig coffee maker:
- Unplug your Keurig coffee maker.
- Remove any remaining pods from the pod holder and the water reservoir.
- Wash the pod holder and the water reservoir with warm, soapy water.
- Rinse the pod holder and the water reservoir thoroughly with clean water.
- Use a paperclip or a Keurig cleaning tool to clean out the needle that punctures the pod. Insert the paperclip or tool into the needle and move it around to dislodge any debris.
- Fill the water reservoir halfway with white vinegar and the rest with water.
- Place a large mug on the drip tray and run a brew cycle without a pod. Discard the contents of the mug.
- Repeat step 7 until the water reservoir is empty.
- Fill the water reservoir with clean water and run several brew cycles without a pod to rinse out any vinegar residue.
- Wash the drip tray and the exterior of the machine with warm, soapy water.
- Rinse the drip tray and the exterior of the machine thoroughly with clean water.
- Reassemble the pod holder and the water reservoir.
- Plug in your Keurig coffee maker and run a brew cycle with a pod to ensure that it is working properly.
FAQs
Q: Can I clean my Keurig coffee maker with bleach?
A: It is not recommended to use bleach to clean your Keurig coffee maker as it can damage the machine and leave a strong bleach taste in your coffee.
Q: Do I need to clean the needle that punctures the pod every time?
A: No, it is only necessary to clean the needle every three to six months, depending on usage.
Q: Can I put the pod holder and the water reservoir in the dishwasher?
A: No, it is not recommended to put the pod holder and the water reservoir in the dishwasher as it can damage the machine.
Conclusion
Cleaning your Keurig coffee maker is an important step to ensure that your coffee always tastes its best and your machine lasts longer. Follow these simple steps every three to six months to keep your Keurig coffee maker in top condition.