What To Know
- While the brew cycle is running, remove the following parts and soak them in a solution of equal parts vinegar and water.
- Use a soft cloth or paper towel dampened with vinegar to gently wipe down the exterior of the coffee maker, including the carafe warmer and buttons.
- Cleaning your OXO coffee maker with vinegar is a simple and effective way to maintain its performance and ensure a delicious cup of coffee every time.
A clean coffee maker ensures a rich and flavorful brew every morning. Over time, however, mineral deposits and coffee oils can accumulate, affecting the taste and performance of your OXO coffee maker. Using vinegar is a natural, effective, and inexpensive way to deep clean your machine. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you get started:
Materials You’ll Need:
- White vinegar
- Water
- Soft cloths or paper towels
- Optional: Baking soda
Step-by-Step Cleaning Process:
1. Gather Your Materials
Ensure you have all the necessary materials before starting the cleaning process.
2. Prepare the Vinegar Solution
Fill the water reservoir with equal parts white vinegar and water. Do not add coffee grounds.
3. Run the Brew Cycle
Turn on the coffee maker and run the brew cycle as usual. The vinegar solution will circulate through the machine, dissolving mineral deposits and coffee oils.
4. Soak the Removable Parts
While the brew cycle is running, remove the following parts and soak them in a solution of equal parts vinegar and water:
- Carafe
- Filter basket
- Lid
5. Clean the Exterior
Use a soft cloth or paper towel dampened with vinegar to gently wipe down the exterior of the coffee maker, including the carafe warmer and buttons.
6. Rinse Thoroughly
Once the brew cycle is complete, discard the vinegar solution. Run several brew cycles with fresh water only to rinse out any remaining vinegar residue.
7. Deodorize (Optional)
If any lingering vinegar odor persists, fill the water reservoir with a solution of equal parts water and baking soda. Run a brew cycle and discard the solution.
Additional Tips:
- Clean your coffee maker regularly, especially if you use it daily.
- Use filtered water to prevent mineral buildup.
- Descale your coffee maker every 3-6 months to remove hard water deposits.
- If your coffee maker has a cleaning indicator, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning.
Troubleshooting:
- Coffee Tastes like Vinegar: If your coffee tastes like vinegar after cleaning, rinse the machine thoroughly with fresh water.
- Coffee Maker Not Brewing: Ensure the water reservoir is filled and the filter basket is properly inserted. If the problem persists, contact OXO customer support.
Why Use Vinegar?
Vinegar is an effective cleaning agent because:
- It’s acidic, which helps dissolve mineral deposits.
- It’s antibacterial and antifungal, killing germs that can cause odors.
- It’s non-toxic and safe for use in food-contact surfaces.
Summary:
Cleaning your OXO coffee maker with vinegar is a simple and effective way to maintain its performance and ensure a delicious cup of coffee every time. By following these steps regularly, you can keep your coffee maker in pristine condition and enjoy a refreshing brew for years to come.
Information You Need to Know
Q: How often should I clean my OXO coffee maker with vinegar?
A: It’s recommended to clean your coffee maker with vinegar every 3-6 months, or more frequently if you use it daily.
Q: What type of vinegar should I use?
A: Use white vinegar for cleaning your coffee maker.
Q: Can I use baking soda instead of vinegar?
A: Baking soda is not as effective as vinegar in removing mineral deposits, but it can be used to deodorize your coffee maker after cleaning with vinegar.
