Old coffee oils turn rancid and make fresh coffee taste flat or bitter. A quick clean after each brew and a deeper clean now and then keeps your gear working and your coffee tasting right.
How to clean a French press
After every use
- Remove the plunger and scoop out the grounds with a spoon. Put them in the trash or compost, not down the drain.
- Add warm water to the beaker, swirl and pour out.
- Wash the beaker and plunger with warm water and a drop of dish soap. Rinse well.
- Let it air dry upside down.
Deep clean once a week
Unscrew the filter assembly: the lid, the metal mesh and the cross plate. Wash each part separately, because old grounds hide between layers. Use a soft brush for the mesh. Reassemble when dry. The French Press Coffee Maker, 34oz, Borosilicate Glass comes apart for easy cleaning. Check the product page for care notes and dishwasher guidance.
How to clean a moka pot
Moka pots are usually aluminum or stainless steel. Care is different from other brewers.
- Let the pot cool fully before you open it.
- Unscrew the top and empty the used grounds.
- Rinse the chambers, the filter plate and the gasket with warm water.
- Use a soft sponge. Skip harsh detergents and steel wool on aluminum, which can leave marks and affect taste.
- Dry every part before storing it. Leave the pot unassembled so it can air out.
Plain warm water is the standard method for aluminum pots, and many people avoid dish soap so no taste remains. If you use soap, rinse very well. Do not put an aluminum moka pot in the dishwasher. Our Aluminum Mocha Pot should be hand washed. See how to use a moka pot for brewing.
Replace the gasket
The rubber ring and filter plate wear out. If your pot leaks at the seam or brews slowly, replace them.
Removing stubborn oils and stains
- Fill the French press beaker with hot water and a spoonful of baking soda, let it sit, then scrub.
- For a cloudy glass beaker, soak with a mix of warm water and white vinegar, then rinse thoroughly.
- Do not use vinegar on aluminum moka pots.
Do not forget the rest
A clean brewer cannot fix a dirty grinder. Learn how in how to clean a coffee grinder. If you brew with paper or metal filters, see paper vs metal filters for cleanup differences.
FAQ
How often should I clean a French press?
Rinse after every use and take it apart for a deeper clean about once a week.
Is it safe to wash a moka pot with soap?
Many makers recommend water only for aluminum. If you use soap, rinse thoroughly and check the product page.
Why does my coffee taste bitter?
Old oils in the brewer can cause it. Clean the mesh, gasket and seams.
