How to Descale a Coffee Maker with Vinegar

If your coffee tastes bitter or the machine brews slowly, mineral buildup from water may be the cause. Descaling a drip coffee maker is easy and takes about an hour.

Always check your coffee maker's manual. Some brands, especially single-serve pod machines, recommend their own descaling solution.

What You'll Need

White vinegar
Water
A paper filter
Dish soap

Step 1: Mix the Solution

Fill the water reservoir with equal parts white vinegar and water.

Step 2: Start a Brew Cycle

Place a paper filter in the basket and start a brew cycle. Halfway through, turn the machine off and let it sit for 30 minutes. This gives the vinegar time to dissolve mineral deposits.

Step 3: Finish the Cycle

Turn the machine back on and let the cycle finish. Pour out the vinegar solution.

Step 4: Rinse with Water

Run two or three cycles with plain water to remove the vinegar taste and smell.

Step 5: Wash Removable Parts

Wash the carafe, basket and lid in warm soapy water. For coffee stains in the carafe, use baking soda and water, or a little rice and salt swirled around with water.

How Often to Descale

Soft water: Every 3 months.
Hard water: Every month.

Signs You Need to Descale

Coffee takes longer to brew.
Coffee tastes bitter or burnt.
White deposits appear in the reservoir.

FAQ

Can I use citric acid instead of vinegar? Yes. Citric acid has less odor. Follow the package instructions.

What about espresso machines? Use the descaler recommended by the manufacturer.