Ultimate Guide on How to Clean Your Keurig Machine

The modern convenience of a Keurig coffee maker is undeniable. With a push of a button, a fresh, hot cup of coffee can be brewed in seconds. However, over time this machine can accumulate mineral deposits, bacteria, and even mold that can affect the taste and quality of your coffee. To ensure that your Keurig continues to brew delicious coffee and remain in good condition, it is essential to keep it clean.

Regular cleaning and maintenance not only keep your coffee tasting great but also prolongs the lifespan of your machine. It prevents blockages, clogs, and mishaps that can damage your coffee maker. In this article, we’ll show you the step-by-step guide on how to clean and descale your Keurig coffee maker to help you save time and money in the long run.

Before we go into the details of the cleaning process, let’s explore some common signs that it’s time to clean your Keurig. If your coffee tastes weak or bitter or if the machine takes longer than a minute to brew, it’s time to clean it. Also, if your machine has not been in use for a while or has been used frequently, it’s advisable to give it a deep clean to keep it in prime condition.

Cleaning Your Keurig: Step 1 – Taking It Apart

Before you begin cleaning your Keurig coffee maker, it’s important to disassemble it. This will help you access all the parts that may have accumulated dirt, bacteria, or residue build-up over time.

Firstly, remove all removable parts such as the water reservoir, drip tray, and K-cup holder. Make sure to empty any leftover water or coffee from all parts before cleaning them.

Next, inspect the needle that punctures the K-cup and make sure no residue is sticking to it. If it is dirty, use a paperclip or needle to remove any clogs or buildup, making sure to be gentle and avoid damaging the needle.

You can also take out the funnel that holds the K-cup in place to clean it in hot soapy water or on the top rack of your dishwasher. Don’t forget to wipe the exterior of your Keurig machine with a damp, soapy cloth before drying it off.

Keep all parts organized and together while cleaning to ensure they’re put back in the right place. Once disassembled and cleaned, you can confidently move on to the next step in cleaning your Keurig.

Step 2: Clean the Machine Externally

After cleaning the internal parts of your Keurig machine, it is now time to clean the external parts. This includes the drip tray, the water reservoir, and the exterior of the machine.

First, remove the drip tray and wash it with warm, soapy water. Rinse it thoroughly and dry it with a clean towel. If there are any stubborn stains, use a non-abrasive cleaner to scrub them off.

Next, remove the water reservoir and empty any remaining water. Wash it with warm, soapy water and rinse it thoroughly. Dry it with a clean towel before putting it back onto the machine.

Finally, wipe down the exterior of the machine with a damp cloth. If there are any sticky spots or stains, use a non-abrasive cleaner to remove them. Be sure to avoid getting any moisture inside the machine.

Once you have cleaned the external parts of your Keurig machine, reassemble it and run a cycle of plain water to ensure no cleaning solution is left inside the machine. Your Keurig machine should now be clean and ready to use!

Cleaning Your Keurig: Step 3

Descaling Your Keurig

The buildup of mineral deposits inside your Keurig can cause your machine to operate inefficiently or even stop working altogether. To prevent this, you’ll want to descale your Keurig every three to six months, depending on how frequently you use it. Here’s how:

1. Prepare your Keurig: Turn off the machine and unplug it. Remove any remaining pods or used K-cups. Then, remove the water reservoir and empty it completely.
2. Mix the descaling solution: You can purchase a commercial descaling solution from Keurig or make your own with equal parts water and distilled white vinegar. Fill the water reservoir to the halfway point with your solution.
3. Descale your Keurig: Place a large mug or bowl on the drip tray. Turn on your Keurig and run brew cycles until the reservoir is empty. Be sure to discard the output from each cycle. Repeat until the “add water” light illuminates.
4. Rinse and clean your Keurig: Fill the water reservoir with fresh water and run brew cycles without a pod until the reservoir is empty. This will rinse out any remaining descaling solution. Then, wash the drip tray, water reservoir, and K-cup holder with soap and water.

After completing these steps, your Keurig should be cleaned and ready to make your next cup of coffee or tea. Remember to regularly descale your machine to keep it running smoothly and extend its lifespan.

Clean Your Keurig’s Water Reservoir

The water reservoir is a crucial part of your Keurig coffee maker. That’s why it’s important to clean it regularly to ensure that your coffee tastes fresh and delicious. Here’s how to do it:

1. First, unplug your Keurig coffee maker and remove the water reservoir from the machine.
2. Discard any remaining water in the reservoir and rinse it with warm water to remove any impurities.
3. If you notice any stubborn stains or buildup, use a soft-bristled brush or sponge to gently scrub the reservoir with a mixture of water and white vinegar. Rinse thoroughly afterward.
4. Wipe the outside of the reservoir with a damp cloth to remove any dust or grime.
5. Once the reservoir is clean and dry, replace it in your Keurig machine and fill it with fresh water.

By cleaning your Keurig’s water reservoir on a regular basis, you can ensure that your coffee maker continues to function properly and that your coffee always tastes great.