How to clean your coffee gear.

Let's face it, every cup of coffee will taste better if it's brewed from clean equipment.  All your brewing equipment will last longer if cared for properly and cleaned regularly.  For espresso machines, we recommend following the manufacturer's instructions, but for all manual brew methods there are several ways you can clean your gear. 

The first method is the most obvious.  You can place your vessels on the top rack of your dishwasher.  This is true for Aeropress, Chemex (without the wood collar), pour over brewers and drip coffee carafes. The disadvantage of this method is that it is difficult to find dishwasher soap that is fragrance free.  Without scrubbing, It also doesn't always get things completely clean. 

The next method is to hand wash using unscented dish soap and a washcloth or sponge.  Be sure to rinse the equipment well with water to eliminate any soapy residue.  If the Chemex is your preferred brew method, they make a brush specially designed to reach inside for cleaning.  It would be a worthwhile investment. 

If you prefer not to use soap, you can simply use water and the scrubby side of a sponge. 

For stubborn stains, you can try a vinegar/baking soda solution. (2:1 - vinegar : baking soda.)  Combining these two substances will create a foamy/frothy solution that will get rid of tough coffee stains.  Be sure to rinse well to avoid any off flavors from the vinegar.  

The last method to try is to use ice and salt.  Fill your glass carafe about half-way and add a couple of tablespoons of salt, and swish the ice/salt around.  This method is particularly helpful with drip coffee carafes that have been sitting on the hot plate for long periods of time. 

No matter which method you choose, cleaning your equipment immediately following brewing will yield the best results as it won't allow any build-up to happen.  .

Cheers!