Reviews

Kelly D. Verified Buyer

★★★★★
Perfect Coffee Capsule
Great coffee capsule. Easy to pack with coffee & place into ALDI machine. Very easy to clean. No more plastic capsule to throw to land fill. Awesome invention 👍👍

Steven B. Verified Buyer

★★★★★
Pod Star single for Aldi K-fee
If you’re a strong coffee drinker using a larger cup, I would strongly suggest if you’re buying the whole package available that you buy the Pod Star Double for Aldi K-fee. With two you can pack them both to make a coffee, saving some time, otherwise you have to pack, use, empty, clean and repackaged again. I really like this product, I use it constantly with my favourite coffee.
I only bought the single pod kit, so am purchasing a second pod to make the process quicker for my morning coffee.

Benjamin R. Verified Buyer

★★★★★
Great product
Love the re usable cupsules well designed great quality ,and to wake up to the smell of fresh coffee is the best.

John W. Verified Buyer

★★★★★
Brilliant Product
Such good quality! The pods look like they’ll last forever. Getting the pack has made it easy to switch to reusable. Thanks!!

David V. Verified Buyer

★★★★★
Solid construction, easy to use,
Solid construction, easy to use, delivered very quickly and free sample bag of coffee was a nice touch

Kathryn W. Verified Buyer

★★★★★
great stuff
beautifully made and works well. me one happy podstar usere

Caitlin B. Verified Buyer

★★★★★
Perfect!
We couldn't love our reusable pods more! They work perfectly (every time!) and the coffee that comes out tastes just as good as any cafe. We've been using the pods since they came out and we haven't had a single issue.

Josie M. 

★★★★★
Got this for Christmas!!!
The best present I got this year and I’ve been grinding my own coffee ever since. The idea of using a refillable capsule is brilliant! I hated the waste and I was paying a lot for the Nespesso pods. It wasn’t hard to figure out how to get the coffee packed right although I checked out the online guide and decided that I’d use 2 pods per coffee as suggested for a really full flavour - would never do this will the Nespresso pods because it would cost too much. Great present, I’m so happy.

Sonia H. Verified Buyer

★★★★★
Podstar
This product is so handy and works very well with my Nespresso delongi 

Helen F. Verified Buyer

★★★★★
As advertised 
The podsta works as advertised. Nice and easy and of course environmental. I’m yet to find the right strength coffee but the pod itself is great 

Matthew J. Verified Buyer

★★★★★
Great design 
Really great product design. They look and feel very high quality and do the job well. Would be great if they were able to pressurise a bit more—coffee would turn out better. But for the limitations of a reusable pod they do a fantastic job. 

Lynda V. Verified Buyer

★★★★★
Love my podstar 
Love my podstar 

Ben M. Verified Buyer

★★★★★
Great pod replacement 
Bought this so we don’t have to waste countless pods.  

Works great, had a few failures figuring it out.  
Trickiest part is finding coffee that’s the right grind, barely any pre packaged grounds say what grind level they are. We ended up buying beans from our local cafe and getting them ground for us.  

Consider buying two if you have two people drinking coffee, not a huge hassle washing and prepping the same one but more convinient to have the two.

Nicole A. Verified Buyer

★★★★★
Works perfect 
I like that the podstar eliminates coffee pods going into landfill. It is easy to use, fits perfectly into my machine and saves me money!

Ebru B. Verified Buyer

★★★★★
Brilliant 
An easy to use, environmentally conscious product that allows nespresso machine owners to enjoy a larger range of ground coffee. 

Louisette B. Verified Buyer

★★★★
great and useful little pod! 
I've been looking around for a re-usable pod for a while and this one is very good. Easy to use, easy to clean and makes a decent coffee.  

Still trying to work out the right amount of coffee/ tamping to use but getting there and after having tried a few pods, this one is the best so far I actually prefer normal Lavazza ground coffee than the sample provided and would give it 4.5 stars but it won't let me :-) 

Anna C. Verified Buyer

★★★★★
Love this! 
I love that I’m no longer buying pods that end up in the rubbish or recycling. It took a few days to work out how much coffee to use to make it how I like, but it’s so easy to use and clean. I love it so much I just bought my parents some for Christmas! Thanks for an awesome product and the best customer service! 

Bree Verified Buyer

★★★★★
Amazing! 
Was so excited when I purchased a Podstar reusable coffee capsule. Knowing that I was helping our environment and making a difference. Great packaging, great product, love it! Now I can use my own coffee beans. Such a brilliant idea. Thank you Podstar!!!!

Brett D. Verified Reviewer

★★★★★
Exactly What I Have Been Waiting For 
What an Ingenious Idea. I bought the Podstar, a bag of "Espresso Of Love" coffee beans and all I can say is WOW, not only was I totally impressed with simplicity of using the Podstar but the coffee beans were the icing on top. This is some of the nicest coffee I have had in long time. Combine all this with the fact that it has such a positive impact on the environment and I don't think I will need to buy those other pods detrimental to the environment ever again. Congratulations to the people at Podstar you have done an amazing job, 5 stars 

Gary S Verified Reviewer

★★★★★
Loving it 
I have finally brought home my favourite coffee with the help of Podstar. I’m amazed with the ease and convenience of this product. Not only am I helping the environment but I’m also saving money. Easy to fill and easy to clean. Best of all you can fill it with your favourite blend of coffee. 

Kathleen S. Verified Buyer

★★★★★
Stainless steel Nespresso pods 

Great product and a supa way to save and still have your favourite coffee.

Robert W. Verified Buyer

★★★★★
My podstar pack 
I recently received my double podstar pack. Filling and using the reusable pods was very simple and effortless, the same as cleaning the pods after using. The instructions that came with the pods was easy to follow and understand. 

Carla C. Verified Buyer

★★★★★
Awesome! 
Great way to reduce waste and stop using so many pods. Definitely buy 2 if you prefer a stronger coffee. Only downside is the coffee isn't as hot as it is when I use a Nespresso pod. Minor issue only. 

Janice E. Verified Buyer

★★★★★
Quite happy with the podstar's. 
Quite happy with the podstar's. I'm still trying to get the right grind on the coffee to make sure the water can push through!

Everything you need to know about choosing, using and caring for your Podstar reusable coffee pods. Browse the topics below to find answers to common questions. If you still need help, we're only a message away.

Choosing the Right Capsule

Which Podstar reusable capsule fits my coffee machine?

Podstar makes reusable capsules for Nespresso Original, selected Nespresso Vertuo, Aldi Expressi, Lavazza A Modo Mio and Espressotoria machines.

Not sure which capsule you need? Visit our Find Your Machine guide to identify the right reusable capsule for your coffee machine.

If your machine isn't listed, contact us with the brand and model number and we'll be happy to help.

Do your reusable capsules work in all Nespresso Original machines?

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Do your reusable capsules work in Vertuo machines?

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Which Aldi Expressi machines are compatible?

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Do you make reusable capsules for Dolce Gusto?

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Getting Started

What coffee should I use?

One of the biggest advantages of using a Podstar reusable capsule is that you get to choose the coffee.

With disposable capsules, you're limited to the coffee that's inside. With Podstar, you can enjoy freshly roasted coffee from your favourite local roaster, explore different blends and origins, or even roast your own beans if you're passionate about coffee.

Freshly roasted coffee contains more of the natural oils and aromas that give coffee its flavour. Combined with the right grind, it can produce a noticeably better cup than coffee that has been sealed in a disposable capsule for months.

If you've just purchased your first Podstar reusable capsule, start with the complimentary Lygon St Coffee Co. sample included with your order. It's freshly roasted and ground specifically for reusable capsules, making it the perfect place to begin.

Once you've mastered the basics, half the fun is experimenting. Try different blends, roast levels and single origins until you discover the coffee that's perfect for you.

For more tips and step-by-step instructions, visit our Making Coffee guide.

How do I get the best coffee from my reusable capsule?

Great coffee comes down to a few simple things:


Use freshly roasted coffee whenever possible.

Choose a stovetop grind or adjust your grinder until you achieve a smooth, even extraction.

Fill the reusable capsule evenly and tamp it firmly, without over-packing.

For a stronger, café-style coffee, brew two reusable capsules into the same cup.

For more tips and step-by-step instructions, visit our Making Coffee guide.

Don't be afraid to experiment. It may take a few coffees to find the grind and tamp that produce the flavour you enjoy most.

How many reusable capsules do I need?

Most people use two reusable capsules to make a café-strength coffee.

Because reusable capsules aren't vacuum-packed like disposable capsules, they hold slightly less coffee than a single-use capsule. Using two capsules gives you a stronger, fuller-bodied coffee that's comparable to what you're used to.

If you prefer a lighter coffee, one reusable capsule may be enough. For a stronger coffee, simply brew a second capsule into the same cup.

Why does a reusable capsule hold less coffee than a disposable capsule?

Disposable capsules are filled and vacuum-sealed using commercial equipment, allowing manufacturers to pack more coffee into a small capsule.

Reusable capsules are filled by hand, so they naturally hold a little less coffee. A typical Nespresso Original reusable capsule holds around 5.5g of coffee, compared with around 11g in a café espresso.

That's why many customers brew two reusable capsules into one cup to achieve a fuller, café-style coffee while still enjoying freshly ground beans and complete control over the flavour.

What grind size should I use?

We recommend a stovetop (Moka pot) grind.

This is slightly coarser than a traditional espresso grind and works well in reusable capsules. If you're buying coffee from a local roaster, simply ask for a stovetop grind.

If you're grinding your own beans, aim for a grind that's similar to fine table salt. You can then make small adjustments until you achieve the flavour and flow you prefer..

How firmly should I tamp the coffee?

Tamp the coffee until it's level and firmly packed, but don't force it.

The aim is to create an even coffee bed so the water flows through consistently. If your coffee runs too slowly, try tamping a little lighter. If it runs too quickly, try tamping a little more firmly.

With a little practice, you'll quickly find the pressure that produces the flavour you enjoy most.

Cleaning & Care

How do I clean my capsules?

After each use, empty the used coffee grounds and rinse your capsule under warm running water. This is usually all that's needed to keep it clean.

Every few weeks, or if you notice a build-up of coffee oils, wash your capsule in warm, soapy water using a soft brush or cloth. Rinse thoroughly before using it again.

A clean capsule not only helps your coffee taste its best, but also keeps your machine performing well.

Can I put my capsules in the dishwasher?

Yes. All Podstar capsules are top-rack dishwasher safe.

If you have a Nespresso Original capsule, we recommend removing the silicone ring before placing it in the dishwasher to help extend its life.

However, rinsing your capsule under warm water after each use is usually all that's needed. An occasional dishwasher cycle is a convenient way to remove any build-up of coffee oils.

How often should I clean my capsules?

Rinse your capsule under warm water after every use to remove used coffee grounds and prevent coffee oils from building up.

Every few weeks, or more often if you use your capsule several times a day, give it a more thorough clean with warm, soapy water or place it in the dishwasher.

Keeping your capsule clean will help maintain both the flavour of your coffee and the performance of your machine.

Do I need to descale my coffee machine?

Yes. Regular descaling helps remove mineral build-up, keeping your coffee machine performing at its best.

How often you should descale depends on how often you use your machine and the hardness of your water. We recommend following the descaling instructions provided by your machine's manufacturer.

Regular descaling helps maintain good water flow, consistent extraction and great-tasting coffee.

How long will my capsule last?

Podstar capsules are made from 316L marine-grade stainless steel and are designed to last for many years with normal use.

Simply rinse your capsule after each use and clean it regularly to keep it performing at its best.

If you have a Nespresso Original capsule, the silicone ring may eventually need replacing, depending on how often it's used. Every Nespresso Original capsule includes a spare replacement ring, so you'll be ready if you ever need it.

Brewing & Troubleshooting

My coffee is weak or watery.

If your coffee tastes weak or watery, it usually means the water is passing through the coffee too quickly instead of extracting all the flavour. This is most commonly caused by the coffee being ground too coarsely, not enough coffee in the capsule, or the coffee not being tamped firmly enough.

We recommend using a stovetop (Moka pot) grind, filling the capsule to the top and tamping the coffee until it's level and firmly packed.

Remember that reusable capsules aren't vacuum packed like disposable capsules, so they naturally hold less coffee. For a stronger coffee, many customers brew two capsules into one cup.

If you've tried these steps and you're still not getting a good result, please get in touch and we'll be happy to help troubleshoot your setup.

My coffee is coming through too slowly or not at all.

If your coffee is dripping very slowly, or not coming through at all, the coffee inside the capsule is probably packed too tightly. This prevents the water from flowing through the coffee properly.

Try using a slightly coarser grind, tamping a little more lightly, or using a little less coffee in the capsule. Even small adjustments can make a big difference.

If the problem continues, remove the capsule and check that the filter holes are clean and free from coffee grounds before trying again.

Coffee is leaking around the capsule.

If coffee or water is leaking around the capsule, it usually means the capsule isn't sealing properly or coffee grounds are preventing a good seal.

Remove the capsule and check that the rim is clean and free from coffee grounds before inserting it again. If you're using a Nespresso Original capsule, make sure the silicone ring is fitted correctly and isn't twisted or damaged.

If the leak continues, try using a little less coffee in the capsule. Overfilling can prevent the machine from closing properly and affect the seal.

If you've checked these steps and the problem persists, please get in touch and we'll be happy to help.

Can I use supermarket coffee?

Generally, no.

Most supermarket ground coffee is ground too finely for reusable capsules. This can cause your coffee to run very slowly, become blocked or produce poor results.

For the best coffee, we recommend using freshly roasted coffee ground for a stovetop (Moka pot). If you're buying from a local roaster, simply ask for a stovetop grind.


Every Podstar capsule includes a complimentary sample of Lygon St Coffee Co. coffee, ground to the specification we recommend for the best results.

Why doesn't my coffee taste like the café?

Great coffee starts with great coffee beans.

While your Podstar capsule plays an important role, the biggest difference comes from the coffee you use. Freshly roasted coffee retains more of its flavour and aroma than coffee that's been sitting on a supermarket shelf for months.

For the best results, we recommend using freshly roasted coffee ground for a stovetop (Moka pot). Fill the capsule to the top, tamp it firmly and, for a stronger coffee, brew two capsules into one cup.

Every Podstar capsule includes a complimentary sample of Lygon St Coffee Co. coffee, so you can experience the grind we recommend and see the difference freshly roasted coffee can make.

Machine fit & Compatibility

My capsule doesn't fit in my machine

First, check that your coffee machine is listed on our Find Your Machine compatibility guide.

If your machine is compatible, make sure the lid is screwed fully onto the base. If the lid isn't tightened completely, the capsule becomes slightly longer and may not fit properly in your machine.

Also avoid overfilling the capsule. Fill with coffee to just below the thread, leaving enough room for the lid to screw fully onto the base.

If you have a Nespresso Essenza Mini, fitting the capsule is slightly different. Please see How do I fit a capsule into a Nespresso Essenza Mini? for our demonstration video.

If you've checked these steps and your capsule still doesn't fit, please contact us and we'll be happy to help.

I can't close the lever

If your machine is listed on our Find Your Machine compatibility guide, the most common cause is that the capsule has been overfilled or the lid hasn't been screwed fully onto the base.

Fill the capsule with coffee to just below the thread, then screw the lid firmly onto the base. Overfilling can prevent the lid from closing completely, making the capsule slightly longer and harder to fit into your machine.

If you're using a Nespresso Original capsule, it's also normal for the lever to feel firmer than it does with a disposable capsule, especially when your capsule is new. This will usually ease after a few uses.

If you have a Nespresso Essenza Mini, please see How do I fit a capsule into a Nespresso Essenza Mini? for our demonstration video.

If you're still unable to close the lever, please contact us and we'll be happy to help.

My capsule is getting stuck in the machine

If your capsule is getting stuck in the chamber after brewing, it's usually because the lid hasn't been screwed fully onto the base.

When the lid is left loose, the capsule becomes slightly longer and can become lodged in your machine.

Overfilling the capsule can also prevent the lid from screwing down completely. Fill with coffee to just below the thread, leaving enough room for the lid to screw fully onto the base.

Before each use, check that the lid is firmly tightened. This simple step will help ensure the capsule fits and ejects correctly.

If you've checked these steps and your capsule is still getting stuck, please contact us and we'll be happy to help.

How do I fit a capsule into a Nespresso Essenza Mini?

The Nespresso Essenza Mini uses a slightly different insertion technique to some other Nespresso Original machines. If you're having trouble fitting your Podstar capsule or closing the lever, watch our short video below.

Watch the video: Fitting a Podstar capsule into a Nespresso Essenza Mini

Contact & Support

I still need help.

If you haven't found the answer you're looking for, we're here to help.

Please include your coffee machine make and model, the Podstar capsule you're using, and a brief description of the problem. If possible, attach a photo or short video so we can see exactly what's happening.

We'll get back to you as quickly as we can.

I think my capsule is faulty.

Every Podstar capsule is hand-lathed, individually assembled and checked before it leaves us, but if you think there's a problem, we'd like to help.

Please contact us with your order number, your coffee machine make and model, and a brief description of the issue. If possible, include a few photos or a short video showing the problem.

We'll investigate the issue and work with you to find the cause. If your capsule is found to have a manufacturing fault, we'll make it right.

Do the capsules come with a warranty?

Yes. All Podstar capsules are covered by our warranty against manufacturing defects.

Every capsule is hand-lathed, individually assembled and checked before it leaves us. If you believe your capsule has a manufacturing fault, please contact us with your order number, your coffee machine make and model, and a description of the issue. Photos or a short video are always helpful.

If we determine that your capsule has a manufacturing fault, we'll replace it in accordance with our warranty and your rights under Australian Consumer Law.

Still can't find the answer?

If you can't find the answer you're looking for, we'd love to help.

The quickest way to get in touch is through our Contact Us page. Please include your coffee machine make and model, the Podstar capsule you're using, and a brief description of the problem. If possible, attach a photo or short video so we can see exactly what's happening.

We'll get back to you as quickly as we can and do our best to get you back to enjoying great coffee.