Cleaning your coffee grinder may be the last thing on your long list of to-do’s, but if you value a good cup of java, making sure your grinder is cleaned regularly is important for several reasons.  Let’s look at why a clean grinder makes a difference to your cuppa, and we’ll guide you on how to clean yours properly with step-by-step instructions.

  • Freshness: When you haven’t cleaned your grinder between coffee batches, old grounds can accumulate in your grinder, which can then mix with your freshly ground coffee and compromise its flavour. This can make your coffee taste stale or bitter.
  • Hygiene: Coffee grinders can also accumulate bacteria and mold if they are not cleaned properly. This can lead to health issues and affect the taste of your coffee.
  • Performance: A dirty coffee grinder can cause the machine to slow down or become clogged, affecting its performance and the quality of the grind. Regular cleaning can ensure the machine is functioning optimally.
  • Longevity: Coffee grinders are expensive equipment and proper maintenance can help them last longer, saving you money in the long run.

How to clean your coffee grinder

  1. Unplug the grinder: Before you start cleaning your coffee grinder, make sure it isn’t plugged in to any electrical outlet. We don’t want any mishaps!
  2. Disassemble: Remove the hopper, burr, and any other removable parts from the grinder. Be sure to refer to the manufacturer’s instructions if you are unsure of how to disassemble your specific grinder. (Always keep those instruction booklets, they’re important!)
  3. Brush off the excess grounds: Use a small brush, like a pastry brush, to sweep away any excess coffee grounds from the grinder’s chamber and burrs.
  4. Clean the hopper: If your coffee grinder has a hopper, wash it in warm soapy water and rinse thoroughly. Make sure it is completely dry before reassembling it.
  5. Clean the burrs: Clean the burrs by wiping them with a clean, dry cloth or brush. For more thorough cleaning, use a small brush or toothbrush to get in between the grooves of the burrs.
  6. Reassemble the grinder: After cleaning all parts, reassemble the grinder following the manufacturer’s instructions.
  7. Grind a small amount of coffee: Once you’ve reassembled the grinder, grind a small amount of coffee to ensure that all parts are working properly and no residue from the cleaning process remains.

And voila! You’ve got a clean coffee grinder ready for the next batch of fresh beans.

Written by Savanna Douglas for Woman&Home

Featured image: Pexels