The Coffee Kits

The Dos and Don'ts of Cleaning Your Delonghi Espresso Machine

If you want to enjoy a perfect cup of espresso every morning, then you should know how to properly clean your Delonghi espresso machine. Keeping your espresso machine clean is essential to ensure that it lasts longer and performs better. Here are the dos and don'ts of cleaning your Delonghi espresso machine:

The Dos

1. Clean the Brew Group Regularly

The brew group is the heart of your Delonghi espresso machine, and it is responsible for making the espresso. You should clean the brew group every week or two, depending on how often you use your machine. To clean the brew group, remove it from the machine, rinse it with warm water, and wipe it with a dry cloth. You can also use a toothbrush to remove any coffee grounds or oils that might have accumulated on the brew group.

2. Clean the Milk Frother after Every Use

If you use the milk frother to make cappuccinos or lattes, then you should clean it after every use. The milk frother is prone to clogging, and if you don't clean it properly, it can affect the taste of the milk. To clean the milk frother, remove it from the machine, rinse it with warm water, and wipe it with a dry cloth. You can also use a toothbrush to remove any milk residue that might have accumulated on the frother.

3. Use a Decalcifier Regularly

If you live in an area with hard water, then you should use a decalcifier regularly to prevent limescale buildup in your Delonghi espresso machine. Limescale can clog the pipes and affect the taste of the espresso. You can use a Delonghi decalcifier, or any other brand that is compatible with your machine. Follow the instructions on the package to use the decalcifier properly.

The Don'ts

1. Don't Use Harsh Chemicals

When cleaning your Delonghi espresso machine, you should avoid using harsh chemicals such as bleach or ammonia. These chemicals can damage the machine's components and affect the taste of the espresso. Instead, use a mild detergent or a vinegar/water solution to clean the machine.

2. Don't Use the Dishwasher

Never put the removable parts of your Delonghi espresso machine in the dishwasher. The high temperature and harsh detergents can damage the parts and affect the machine's performance. Always clean the parts by hand with warm water and a mild detergent.

3. Don't Clean the Grinder with Water

If your Delonghi espresso machine has a built-in grinder, then you should never clean it with water. Water can damage the grinder's components and affect the quality of the grind. Instead, use a brush to remove any coffee grounds that might have accumulated in the grinder.

In conclusion, cleaning your Delonghi espresso machine is essential to ensure that it performs at its best and lasts longer. By following these dos and don'ts, you can maintain your machine's quality and enjoy a perfect cup of espresso every time.