How to Descale Your Keurig Coffee Maker (and Why You Should)
Your Keurig coffee maker is a staple in your kitchen, but like any frequently used appliance, it needs proper maintenance to keep running smoothly. One of the most critical maintenance tasks is descaling. If you’ve never done it—or it’s been a while—don’t worry. I’ll walk you through the simple steps to descale your Keurig and explain why it’s essential for the life of your machine and the taste of your coffee.
Why You Should Descale Your Keurig
Over time, mineral deposits from water can build up inside your Keurig, affecting its performance and the taste of your coffee. If left untreated, this buildup can clog the internal components, slow down brewing, or even cause the machine to stop working entirely.
Descaling your Keurig removes these deposits, improving water flow and ensuring your coffee always tastes fresh. Regular descaling (every 3–6 months, depending on water hardness) also extends the life of your coffee maker, saving you money in the long run.
What You’ll Need
The process is straightforward and requires just two things:
• White Vinegar
• Water
Step-by-Step Guide to Descaling Your Keurig
1. Prepare the Mixture
Mix equal parts white vinegar and water. Fill the reservoir tank with this mixture.
2. Run Brew Cycles
• Start the brewing cycle without inserting a coffee pod.
• Continue running cycles until the reservoir is empty or the machine signals that it needs more water.
3. Let It Sit
Turn the machine off and let it sit for 10 minutes. This downtime allows the vinegar to break down any remaining mineral deposits inside the coffee maker.
4. Rinse the Reservoir
While the machine sits, rinse the reservoir thoroughly with clean water to remove any leftover vinegar.
5. Flush the Machine
• Refill the reservoir with clean water.
• Run several brewing cycles (without a pod) to flush out the remaining vinegar. It may take two full reservoirs of water to completely clear out the vinegar taste and smell.
The Results
Once descaled, your Keurig will work like new. You’ll notice improved brewing speed and consistent water flow. Most importantly, your coffee will taste fresh and flavorful again—just as it’s meant to.
Pro Tip
If you’ve been noticing a slight metallic taste or slower brewing times, it’s probably time to descale. Make it a habit to descale every three months, or more often if you have hard water.
Final Thoughts
Descaling your Keurig is a quick and easy way to maintain your machine, ensure better-tasting coffee, and avoid costly repairs or replacements. Grab some vinegar, water, and a few minutes of your time—it’s a small effort for a big payoff in your morning routine.
Have you descaled your Keurig recently? If not, today’s the day to make it happen.