How to Descale Your Coffee Maker
Mineral buildup from water slowly clogs your machine, slows the brew, and makes coffee taste off. Descaling every one to three months fixes it and extends the life of your gear. Here's the routine and the descaler to use.
Our top pick
Urnex Dezcal Descaler
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Editorial note: this guide is compiled from published manufacturer guidance, general best practices, and aggregated owner experience — not hands-on testing. Always follow your machine’s official manual.
Quick comparison
| Pick | Why we like it | |
|---|---|---|
| Urnex Dezcal Descaler | View → | |
| Durgol Universal Descaler | View → |
Buying advice
Empty the machine, run a half-strength descaler cycle, let it sit 15-20 minutes, then run two or three plain water cycles to flush. Do this more often if you have hard water.
FAQ
How often should I descale?
Every one to three months. If your brew is slow or tastes flat, it's time regardless of the calendar.
Can I use vinegar instead?
Yes, but rinse thoroughly — descaler is cleaner and leaves less smell. Vinegar works in a pinch.
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