The Part Of Your Pod Machine That You May Be Forgetting To Clean.
Keeping your coffee pod machine clean is an essential part of enjoying a perfect brew. Neglecting routine maintenance, like running the descaling process when it's due or skipping the weekly cleaning cycle, can lead to stale grounds, rancid oils, and mineral accumulation that ruin the flavour of your coffee. Additionally, a dirty machine can cause malfunctions, preventing it from working properly and potentially leading to costly repairs. When using reusable pods in particular, it's important to keep your machine clean. But there are other non-brewing areas of the machine that also require frequent upkeep, including the compartment where your spent pods are ejected.
Why You Need to Clean the Pod Compartment
The used pods are damp, and the compartment is dark — a perfect environment for mould and bacteria to thrive. Whether you frequently brew coffee, causing the pod container to remain wet from drips and leaks, or you make coffee less often, allowing liquid to dry up into a sticky mixture of dried coffee and trapped grounds, cleaning out the container is crucial. Regular cleaning can eliminate one source of germs and unpleasant odours in your kitchen.
How to Clean the Pod Compartment
Cleaning the pod compartment is quick and easy. When you slide out the insert to dump your used pods into the recycling bag, take a moment to rinse and wipe the container clean. Since all parts are dishwasher safe, consider running them through a dishwasher cycle for added heat and sanitation. If it's been a while since your last cleaning, you might need a small bristle brush to remove gunk from the container's corners. While the container is drying, use a towel or small sponge to absorb any liquid collected in the compartment where it rests.
This is also a great time to clean the pod spinning blades on your Vertuo machine or the pod opening on other machines. A quick spray of water can help clean these parts, and the moisture will drip down into the pod container opening, assisting in a thorough cleaning of the space. For all these tasks, use warm, soapy water. Nespresso specifically advises against using cleaners or vinegars for cleaning.
By regularly cleaning these often-overlooked areas of your coffee pod machine, you ensure that each cup of coffee tastes as fresh and delicious as possible. Enjoy your brew, knowing that your machine is as clean as can be!
