How Coffee Inspired Art and Literature Around the World
An espresso machine is a prized possession for coffee lovers. Whether you own a compact single-boiler unit or a dual-boiler beast, it’s an investment in flavor, craft, and daily ritual.
But to keep it running like new and producing rich, crema-topped shots, you must care for it properly. Maintenance and storage aren’t optional—they’re essential for longevity, performance, and taste.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll show you how to store and maintain your espresso machine at home, protect its components, and avoid common mistakes that lead to breakdowns.
Espresso machines handle heat, water, pressure, and coffee oils every day. Over time, this can lead to:
Neglect leads to performance decline and costly repairs. With just a few minutes of daily and weekly care, you can keep your machine in peak condition for years.
You don’t need to deep clean your machine every day—but small actions make a big difference.
After every shot, run water through the group head for 2–5 seconds to remove lingering grounds and oils.
Knock out the puck immediately and rinse the portafilter with hot water. If it feels oily or smells burnt, scrub with a dedicated espresso brush.
This step is critical to prevent dried milk buildup:
Stagnant water or old pucks in the tray can breed bacteria and odor. Clean and dry them at the end of each day.
If your machine isn’t going to be used until the next day, turn it off completely. This conserves energy and gives internal components a rest.
These deeper cleans remove buildup you don’t see daily.
Most home machines (with 3-way valves) should be backflushed weekly with a blind filter and espresso machine detergent.
Steps:
Backflushing removes oils and particles that collect in the group valve and solenoids.
Fill a container with hot water and detergent, then soak for 15–30 minutes. Scrub off remaining residue and rinse thoroughly.
Unscrew the shower screen (if removable) and soak it in detergent. Use a nylon brush to clean around the gasket and dispersion block.
Remove the tank, wash with warm soapy water, and rinse thoroughly. Bacteria and mold can develop in stagnant tanks.
This level of cleaning focuses on internal parts that accumulate scale and debris over time.
If you use hard water or don’t filter it, limescale can clog pipes and reduce heating efficiency.
Descale Every 2–3 Months (or As Needed)
Steps:
Important: If your machine has a boiler (not a thermoblock), follow manufacturer instructions carefully to avoid damage.
Inspect your machine for any signs of leaking around the steam wand, drip tray, or water reservoir. Tighten any loose fittings and watch for unusual sounds during use.
If your machine uses inline filters or tank cartridges, change them according to usage—typically every 2–3 months. This reduces scale and improves flavor.
If you plan to store your espresso machine for a few weeks or longer (moving house, vacation, off-season use), follow these steps:
Drain the reservoir, drip tray, boilers, and steam wand. Leftover water can grow mold or freeze in cold conditions.
Soak and scrub the portafilter, baskets, drip tray, and water tank. Dry them thoroughly before storing.
Even if you just cleaned it recently, run one final backflush to remove any residual oils.
Keep cords coiled neatly and unplugged to avoid electrical issues during storage.
Use a breathable cover or kitchen towel to protect it from dust. Avoid plastic wraps, which can trap moisture.
Avoid basements, garages, or damp areas. The ideal storage environment is indoors at a stable room temperature.
Routine cleaning can’t fix every issue. Here’s when to call for help:
In these cases, internal seals, solenoids, or thermostats may be worn out and require replacement.
Keep your cleaning gear close to your machine so it becomes part of your routine.
Small habits add up to a machine that runs better, brews cleaner, and lasts longer.
Owning an espresso machine is a joy—but it comes with responsibility. With proper maintenance and smart storage, your machine can last a decade or more, pulling shots as smooth as the day you bought it.
Take a few minutes each day, week, and month to care for your equipment. Not only will your machine thank you, but your coffee will too—with richer flavor, thicker crema, and consistent performance.
The better you treat your espresso machine, the better it treats your mornings.
Gabriel Rodrigues is a coffee enthusiast, cultural researcher, and writer who specializes in exploring the intersection of history, society, and gastronomy. Passionate about uncovering the stories behind each cup, he delves into how coffee has shaped civilizations throughout time. When he’s not writing, you’ll find him visiting independent cafés and chatting with baristas around the world.
