After each drink
Dispose of used coffee grounds, rinse the basket and portafilter as your manual directs, and wipe coffee from the work area. After steaming, clean the wand according to the appliance instructions. Hot water, steam and metal parts can burn: let parts cool when required.
Schedule deeper care
Depending on the machine and the water you use, the manual may specify a cleaning or descaling schedule. Cleaning coffee oils and descaling mineral deposits are different jobs. Use only products and procedures the manufacturer says are suitable for your model.
Backflushing is not universal
Do not assume every machine can be backflushed or that every cleaning tablet fits every basket. Check the manual before buying a blind basket, using a cleaning chemical or starting a cycle. Rinse as directed, and keep cleaners away from children and food.
Make it easy to repeat
A small brush, washable cloth and tray for drying parts can be enough to build a routine. A compact knock box helps some people, but grounds can also go straight to an appropriate waste container once cool.
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