Tips and Tricks - Do you love your Keurig coffee maker, but notice that it’s not brewing as quickly or as hot as it used to? Or maybe it’s making strange noises? These are all signs that your Keurig needs a good cleaning. In this article, we’ll go over how to clean your Keurig so you can enjoy a delicious cup of coffee every morning.
Why Cleaning Your Keurig is Important
Before we dive into the specifics of how to clean your Keurig, let’s talk about why it’s important to clean it regularly. Over time, mineral deposits, coffee grounds, and bacteria can build up inside your Keurig, which can affect the taste and quality of your coffee. It can also cause your machine to malfunction or break down entirely. Regular cleaning will not only improve the taste of your coffee, but it will also prolong the life of your Keurig.
What You’ll Need to Clean Your Keurig
Before you get started, you’ll need a few supplies:
- White vinegar
- Clean water
- A clean, dry cloth
- A small, soft-bristled brush (such as a toothbrush)
Steps for Cleaning Your Keurig
Step 1: Unplug Your Keurig
Before you start cleaning, make sure your Keurig is unplugged from the outlet. This will prevent any electrical accidents from happening while you’re cleaning.
Step 2: Disassemble Your Keurig
Next, disassemble your Keurig by removing the water reservoir, the lid, and the K-cup holder. These pieces can be washed in warm, soapy water and then rinsed clean. Be sure to dry them thoroughly before reassembling your Keurig.
Step 3: Clean the Exterior
Use a clean, damp cloth to wipe down the exterior of your Keurig. Be sure to get into all the nooks and crannies. If there are any stubborn spots, you can use a small brush to gently scrub them away.
Step 4: Clean the Water Reservoir
Fill the water reservoir with equal parts white vinegar and water. Place it back onto your Keurig and run a brew cycle without a K-cup. This will clean out any mineral deposits and bacteria that may have built up in the reservoir.
Step 5: Clean the K-Cup Holder and Needle
Remove the K-cup holder and use a small, soft-bristled brush to clean out any coffee grounds or debris that may have accumulated. Next, use the brush to clean the needle that punctures the K-cup. This is a crucial step, as a clogged needle can cause your Keurig to malfunction. Be sure to clean the needle from both the top and the bottom.
Step 6: Run Clean Water Through Your Keurig
Once you’ve completed all of the above steps, fill the water reservoir with clean water and run several brew cycles without a K-cup. This will flush out any remaining vinegar and ensure that your Keurig is clean and ready to use.
FAQs About Cleaning Your Keurig
1. How often should I clean my Keurig?
It’s recommended that you clean your Keurig every three to six months, depending on how frequently you use it. If you use your Keurig every day, you may need to clean it more often.
2. Can I use a descaling solution instead of vinegar?
Yes, you can use a descaling solution specifically designed for Keurig machines. However, white vinegar is a more affordable and readily available option that works just as well.
3. Can I clean my Keurig in the dishwasher?
No, you should not put your Keurig in the dishwasher. The high heat and pressure can damage the machine. Instead, follow the steps outlined above for hand-washing your Keurig.
4. My Keurig is still not working properly after cleaning it. What should I do?
If your Keurig is still not working properly after cleaning it, there may be an underlying issue that requires professional repair. Contact Keurig customer service for assistance.
5. Can I use regular tap water in my Keurig?
While you can use regular tap water in your Keurig, it’s recommended that you use filtered water instead. This will help reduce the buildup of mineral deposits and prolong the life of your machine.
Conclusion
Cleaning your Keurig is an important part of maintaining the quality and longevity of your coffee maker. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily clean your Keurig and enjoy a delicious cup of coffee every morning.
Remember to clean your Keurig every three to six months, and to use filtered water to help reduce the buildup of mineral deposits. With regular cleaning and maintenance, your Keurig will continue to provide you with a great cup of coffee for years to come.