Best Practices for Using a Commercial Espresso Machine

Wipe down all surfaces

One of the most important steps in maintaining your espresso machine is regularly wiping down all surfaces. This includes the exterior of the machine, the steam wand, and the group head. Wiping down these surfaces helps to remove any coffee residue or milk build-up that causes excess bacteria to spread and stops the proper working of your machine. Thorough and regular cleaning ensures that your machine remains clean and in optimal working condition for longer.

To start, use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down the exterior of the machine, paying special attention to any areas that may have coffee or milk splatters. Make sure to use a gentle cleaning solution or a mixture of water and washing-up liquid, avoiding any harsh chemicals that could damage the machine or linger on the tools. Next, move on to the steam wand. This is an important part of your espresso machine, responsible for creating the perfect froth for your drinks. After each use, wipe down the steam wand with a damp cloth to remove any milk residue. Be sure to also purge any remaining milk from the wand by releasing a small burst of steam.

Finally, don't forget to clean the group head. This is where the coffee grounds are inserted, so it can easily accumulate oils and residue over time. Use a clean cloth or brush to wipe away any debris, making sure to clean the shower screen and the surrounding area.

Deep clean and descale your espresso machine regularly

To keep your espresso machine running at its best, it's important to deep clean and descale it regularly. Over time, mineral deposits and coffee residue can build up in the machine, affecting the taste and quality of your espresso. To deep clean your espresso machine, start by removing any removable parts, such as the portafilter and drip tray, and give them a thorough cleaning. Use a mixture of warm water and a mild cleaning solution to remove any built-up oils and residue. Rinse them well and let them air dry before reattaching them to the machine.

Next, you need to descale the machine. Mineral deposits from your water can accumulate in the boiler and other parts of the espresso machine, leading to blockages and reduced performance. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for descaling, using a descaling solution or a mixture of white vinegar and water. Run the solution through the machine as directed, ensuring that all the internal components are thoroughly cleaned. After descaling, run several cycles of fresh water through the machine to rinse away any residual solution.

By regularly deep cleaning and descaling your espresso machine, you can ensure that it continues to operate efficiently and deliver the best coffee every single time. 

Regular cleaning and descaling also help to preserve the life of your machine and can result in a longer lifespan and fewer repair or maintenance issues.

Soak the removable parts

Don’t just focus on the exterior when cleaning your machine, you need to take special care of all the machine parts, including the removable parts. These parts, such as the portafilter, baskets, and drip tray, can become dirty and clogged over time, affecting the quality of your espresso. 

Soaking these parts is a simple and effective way to keep them clean and in top condition.

To soak the removable parts, start by filling a sink with warm water and a mild cleaning solution. Remove the parts from the machine and place them in the water, making sure they are fully submerged. Let them soak for at least 15 minutes to allow the solution to break down any built-up oils and residue. After soaking, you can use a soft brush or cloth to gently scrub away any remaining dirt or debris. Rinse the parts with clean water to remove any residue and let them air dry completely before reattaching them to the machine.

Keep the steam wand in top condition

One of the most important parts of your espresso machine is the steam wand. The steam wand is responsible for creating that perfect froth for your drinks, so it's crucial to keep it in top condition.

After each use, make sure to wipe down the steam wand with a damp cloth to remove any milk residue. Milk can easily build up and clog the wand, affecting the quality of the froth. Be thorough in cleaning all the hard-to-reach places, ensuring that there is no residue left behind. In addition to regular cleaning, it's also essential to perform regular maintenance on the steam wand. This includes purging any remaining milk from the wand by releasing a small burst of steam to prevent milk from drying and clogging the wand so that it functions properly for your next use.

Another important tip is to always check the condition of the steam wand's rubber gasket. Over time, this gasket can wear out and cause steam and water leakage. If you notice any signs of wear or damage, replace the gasket immediately to maintain optimal performance.

Backflush your machine

Backflushing is a process that helps to keep your machine clean and ensure optimal performance. It involves using a backflushing disc or blind filter to flush out any coffee oils and residue that may have built up in the group head.

To backflush your machine, start by removing the regular filter basket from the portafilter and replacing it with the backflushing disc or blind filter. Add a small amount of espresso machine cleaner to the disc and lock the portafilter into the group head. Next, start the backflushing process by activating the machine's pump and running it for about 10 seconds. This will cause the cleaning solution to circulate through the group head, cleaning out any coffee oils and residue that may be present.

After 10 seconds, turn off the machine and release the pressure by unlocking and removing the portafilter. Rinse the portafilter and backflushing disc thoroughly to remove any remaining cleaning solution.

Backflushing your machine regularly (around once a week) can help prevent the build-up of oils and residue that can affect the taste of your espresso. So don't forget this important maintenance step and keep your machine performing better for longer. 

If you have any questions about the regular maintenance and best practices for cleaning your Cafe Du Monde coffee machine, please contact us directly or refer to your unique machine’s manual.