Introduction
If you’re a Keurig owner, you know how convenient these little machines can be for brewing a quick cup of coffee or tea. However, as with any appliance, Keurigs require regular maintenance to function properly. Did you know that failing to clean your Keurig can result in bacteria buildup, clogs, and even damage to the machine itself? In this Ultimate Guide to Cleaning your Keurig, we’ll cover everything you need to know to keep your machine running smoothly and brewing delicious beverages. Here are the five topics we’ll be covering:
- Step-by-Step Guide
- Video Tutorial
- Quick Tips
- Infographic
- Troubleshooting Guide
Before we dive in, consider this statistic: according to a survey by Keurig, only 28% of users clean their machines weekly, and 17% admit to never cleaning them. Don’t be one of those users! Your Keurig will thank you for the TLC.
Step-by-Step Guide
The first step in cleaning your Keurig is understanding why it’s important to do so. Over time, mineral buildup from water and coffee can clog the machine’s needles and filter, resulting in slower brewing times, inconsistent flavor, and even damage to the machine’s pump. To combat this, you’ll want to clean your Keurig every three to six months, or more often if you notice issues.
Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
- Vinegar
- Water
- Clean, dry cloth
- Paperclip or similar object
- Dish soap (optional)
Now, let’s get to cleaning!
- Unplug your machine and remove the water reservoir, drip tray, and K-cup holder. Wash these pieces with warm, soapy water and dry them thoroughly.
- Using a paperclip or similar object, clean out the vents on the underside of the handle and the needles that puncture the K-cups. Be gentle and take care not to bend the needles.
- Fill the water reservoir halfway with white vinegar and halfway with water. Reattach the reservoir and place a large mug on the drip tray.
- Run a brew cycle without a K-cup until the mug is half full, then pause the cycle and let the machine sit for 30 minutes to descale and clean the interior. After 30 minutes, resume the brew cycle until the mug is completely full.
- Repeat steps 3 and 4 using only water to flush out any remaining vinegar. You may need to run several cycles to ensure all the vinegar is removed.
- Reassemble your Keurig and perform a test brew cycle with a K-cup to ensure everything is working properly.
Voila! Your Keurig is now sparkling clean and ready to brew your favorite beverages.
Video Tutorial
If you’re a visual learner or prefer a more hands-on approach, you may find it helpful to watch a video tutorial on how to clean your Keurig. Check out this helpful video for a step-by-step guide:
As an added bonus, this video also includes tips for prolonging the lifespan of your Keurig and ensuring it stays clean and functioning properly.
Quick Tips
If you’re short on time, or just want a quick refresher on the basics of Keurig cleaning, check out these quick tips:
- Use distilled water to reduce mineral buildup
- Wipe down the exterior of the machine regularly with a clean, dry cloth
- Clean the drip tray and K-cup holder after each use
- Regularly descale your Keurig to remove mineral buildup
- Consider investing in a reusable K-cup to reduce waste and buildup
Remember, these tips may help keep your Keurig clean and functioning properly, but nothing beats a thorough cleaning every few months.
Infographic
If you’re a visual learner or just prefer a more concise way of learning, check out this handy infographic that breaks down the steps for cleaning your Keurig:
Troubleshooting Guide
Even with regular cleaning, issues may still arise with your Keurig. Here are a few common problems and quick fixes:
- Clogged Needles: If your Keurig is brewing slowly or not at all, it may be due to clogged needles. Use a paperclip or similar object to gently clean out the needles.
- Water Leaks: If water is dripping from the bottom of your Keurig, check to ensure all parts are properly attached and tightened. If this does not solve the issue, contact customer service.
- Inconsistent Brewing: If your Keurig is brewing weak or bitter coffee, try using distilled water and ensuring the machine is clean and descaled. If the issue persists, contact customer service.
For additional troubleshooting tips and answers to common questions, check out the Keurig website or contact customer service.
Conclusion
Congratulations, you’re now a Keurig-cleaning pro! By regularly cleaning your machine, you’ll ensure it stays functioning properly and brewing delicious beverages for years to come. Remember to use distilled water, wipe down the machine regularly, and descale every few months. For more tips and tricks, check out the resources available on the Keurig website.