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Single-Use Coffee Makers: Yes, You Still Have to Keep Them Clean - Here's How
Even the best single-use coffee makers require maintenance and cleaning every month. Just because the coffee may not reside in the machine directly or through a large filter basket does not mean that it is immune to scale buildup. Coffee oils are not as big an issue with the single-cup models as the coffee brew process takes place inside a disposable pod. This pod does not see the oil buildup over time like a filter basket.
However, some cleaning must be done to keep the unit in good working condition. For care and cleaning of single-use coffee makers, always remember to unplug the device first. You have probably read this in the manual many times but it is extremely important! This is also a good time to check and make sure the cords don’t have any damage. Cords can become damaged by being near the water reservoir and getting drips or spills. Damaged cords can lead to coffee maker failure or even electrocution.
First, start with a mild form of cleaning before moving to harsher cleaning methods. For most single-serving coffee makers you can use warm water only or warm water and mild dishsoap to clean the exterior.
Here is a quick tip for those with high mineral deposits or hard water in their drinking water supply: Place a clean glass marble in the coffee maker’s water chamber. Any mineral deposits that would normally accumulate inside the water reservoir will instead accumulate on the marble. Occasionally remove the marble and replace.
For the interior, you can still treat your mini single-serve coffee maker just like a regular one. Once a month pour a very mild mixture of a quarter-cup of white vinegar and five cups of clean water into the reservoir. Do not use red wine or apple cider vinegar. No balsamic, either! Run the brew process but use an old, spent coffee pod. If possible, remove the grounds from the pod before brewing.
This will remove any scale or hard water deposits inside the reservoir and through the tubing around the heating element. Over time these can build up and cause the machine to run inefficiently or not heat up to full temperature. Continue to run through at least three cycles and then wash and rinse out the reservoir with clean water. Repeat the process until there is certainly no vinegar smell.
Keeping your mini coffee maker clean is easy if you just follow some simple instructions. Check the manual to ensure that any soaps or detergents will not harm the exterior. This will give you years of enjoyment and is also a simple way of saving money by not spending it all at the expensive chain coffee shops.