Keeping your machine clean might not be the most exciting task, but it does more than you think.
A clean espresso machine keeps your coffee tasting great, helps the machine run smoothly, and makes it last longer.
In short: a little care goes a long way and you’ll taste the difference every single day.

Why cleaning is so important

Over time, coffee residues, oils, and milk build up inside your machine. This can make your espresso taste less pleasant, sometimes even bitter and affect the performance of your machine. Luckily, cleaning is simple once you know how!

Cleaning the brew group

Do you have a La Marzocco machine with an app? Then you’re done in no time:

1. Insert a blind filter into the portafilter.
2. Add a small amount of cleaning powder.
3. Follow the steps in the app.
4. The machine does the rest automatically.

No app? No problem:

1. Place a blind filter in the portafilter and add up to one teaspoon of cleaning powder.
2. Press the flush button and let it run 7 times for 7 seconds each.
3. Discard the water and rinse the portafilter.
4. Repeat the flush cycle 7 times for 7 seconds without cleaning powder.
5. Clean the group head with a stiff brush.
6. Replace the blind filter with the regular basket and your machine is ready to brew again.

It’s that simple, and your brew group will be spotless!

Don’t forget the portafilter!

The portafilter can hold on to quite a bit of coffee residue. Here’s how to clean it properly:

1. Fill a small container with hot water — just enough to submerge the metal parts (keep the handle dry).
2. Add a scoop of cleaning powder and place the portafilter with the basket inside.
3. Let it soak for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
4. Rinse everything thoroughly and dry it with a towel.

⚠️ Never use a sponge or sharp object to clean the portafilter. It can damage the surface — and you don’t want that!

Don’t forget the steam wand!

The steam wand goes through a lot with all that milk frothing, so don’t neglect it:

• After each use, purge a little steam and wipe the tip with a damp cloth.
• For a deeper clean, soak the steam wand in warm water with a bit of cleaning powder.

This prevents milk residue (and unpleasant smells).

A little effort, a big difference

Just a few minutes a day is enough:

Daily: Flush the brew group and clean the steam wand.
Weekly: Use cleaning powder for the brew group.
Monthly: Check the water filter and descale if necessary.

This keeps your machine and your coffee in top condition.

In short

A clean machine is a happy machine and you can taste it.
Want to see exactly how to clean your machine step by step?
👉 Check out our cleaning guide for a clear, visual walkthrough of every step.

A good cup of coffee starts with more than just the beans

A truly great cup of coffee doesn’t only depend on the beans, it also requires a coffee machine that’s in perfect condition. That’s where we come in. With our experienced technicians, passion for espresso, and eye for detail, we make sure your coffee machine always does what you expect it to do: brew delicious coffee.

Cleaning isn’t enough

You might think, “As long as I keep my coffee machine clean, it should be fine, right?” Unfortunately, that’s not quite the case. Cleaning is important, but our technicians go much deeper. They look inside the pipes and clean areas you can’t reach yourself. They also detect early signs of malfunction and know exactly how all the components in your machine work together. Trying to fix things yourself might seem smart, but it often makes the problem worse. So, leave that to us. 😉

Maintenance is just like with your car

Think about your car. It might run perfectly well, but without regular maintenance, there will inevitably come a day when it breaks down. That’s why cars need an MOT inspection: to prevent problems, ensure safety, and avoid unexpected costs. The same goes for your coffee machine. With proper maintenance, it lasts longer and you keep enjoying top-quality coffee.

Water: the silent culprit

Did you know that water quality differs across the Netherlands? You might not notice it right away, but your coffee machine certainly does. Limescale builds up quickly and can cause serious damage. A good water filter and regular maintenance make all the difference. Below is an example of what happens when no water filter is used: severe limescale buildup inside the boiler.

How to tell if your coffee machine needs maintenance

Most people only realize something’s wrong when it’s already too late. Still, there are signs that your machine needs attention. For example:

• No water is coming out of the machine.
• One group head runs longer than the other.
• Water is leaking around the portafilter.

These are the most common issues we see, but of course, other causes can occur as well. In short: don’t wait until a breakdown happens.

Prevention is better (and cheaper)

Even if your coffee machine seems to be working fine, hidden wear and buildup can still occur. Preventive maintenance not only avoids breakdowns but also extends your machine’s lifespan, saving you money in the long run.

Always the best coffee

Great coffee starts with a clean, healthy coffee machine. Without maintenance, limescale or residue can build up and affect the taste and that’s the last thing you want, whether you’re brewing at home or serving customers in a café or restaurant. That’s why we don’t just handle maintenance, but also advise you on cleaning routines and water quality. This way, you’re guaranteed coffee that makes you smile, every time.

In short

With regular maintenance, you prevent breakdowns, save costs, and make sure every cup of coffee stays top-quality. Want your coffee machine to last for years and always brew the perfect cup? Then the Alleborgh team is here for you.