How to Clean Your Keurig (and When)

Your pod coffee maker can get gross over time. Here’s how to clean it up.

Over time, mineral deposits, coffee oils, and residue from pods can build up inside your machine. This accumulation affects the taste of your coffee and can eventually impact the machine's performance. Regular maintenance is key to keeping your Keurig running smoothly and your coffee tasting fresh.

Recognizing the early warning signs of buildup can help you address issues before they become severe. Your machine might be telling you it needs attention through several indicators.

The most obvious sign is a change in taste. If your coffee suddenly tastes bitter, metallic, or just "off," mineral deposits or old coffee oils are likely the culprits. You might also notice that your machine is taking longer to brew than usual, or that the water flow seems restricted.

Visual cues are also important. Look for:

• Visible scale or white residue around the water reservoir or on the heating element
• Discoloration inside the pod chamber
• Unusual noises during the brewing cycle
• Leaking water around the pod area

Addressing these signs promptly can prevent more serious mechanical issues down the line.

A thorough cleaning involves both internal descaling and external cleaning. This dual approach ensures every part of your machine is free from buildup.

Start with the external components. Remove and wash the removable parts—like the water reservoir, drip tray, and pod holder—in warm, soapy water. Use a soft cloth to wipe down the exterior, paying special attention to the area around the pod entry point where coffee residue often accumulates.

For the internal system, descaling is crucial. You can use a commercial descaling solution or a simple mixture of white vinegar and water. Run the solution through the machine as if you were brewing a cup of coffee, repeating the cycle until the reservoir is empty. Follow this with several cycles of fresh water to rinse out any remaining solution and vinegar taste.

Key steps to remember:

1. Empty the water reservoir and remove any used pods
2. Wash removable parts with mild soap
3. Prepare your descaling solution
4. Run the cleaning cycle
5. Rinse thoroughly with fresh water

How often you clean depends on your usage patterns and water hardness. Establishing a regular schedule prevents heavy buildup.

For daily users, a light cleaning of external parts should be done weekly. This includes wiping the exterior and washing the removable components. Descaling, however, should be performed every 3 to 6 months. If you live in an area with hard water, you may need to descale more frequently, perhaps every 2-3 months.

Less frequent users should still perform a deep clean every few months to prevent stagnant water or residue from causing issues. The goal is to maintain a consistent routine that aligns with how you use your machine.

Regular maintenance is key to keeping your Keurig running smoothly and your coffee tasting fresh.

Simple habits can extend the time between deep cleans and keep your machine in top condition. Prevention is always easier than cure.

Always use filtered water in your reservoir. This significantly reduces the mineral content that leads to scale buildup. After each use, consider leaving the pod chamber open to allow it to air dry, which discourages mold and residue accumulation.

Additionally, make it a habit to empty the water reservoir if you won't be using the machine for an extended period. Stagnant water can become a breeding ground for bacteria and contribute to faster buildup.

Maintaining a clean Keurig is straightforward when you follow a consistent routine. The effort pays off in better-tasting coffee and a longer-lasting machine.

Remember to watch for signs of buildup, clean external parts weekly, and descale every 3-6 months. Using filtered water and proper storage habits will further protect your investment. By integrating these practices into your coffee-making ritual, you ensure every cup is as fresh and flavorful as the first.