Running a bustling coffee shop means your commercial coffee machine is working around the clock to produce aromatic cups of goodness. To ensure your coffee consistently delights customers, proper cleaning and maintenance are paramount. In this guide, we'll cover essential steps for cleaning, the recommended cleaning frequency, and the right tools for the job. Whether you're a seasoned barista or a coffee shop owner, these tips will help keep your commercial coffee machine brewing at its best.
How to Clean a Commercial Coffee Machine
Cleaning your commercial coffee machine is a multi-step process to ensure your equipment and the quality of the coffee you serve is top-notch. Here are the key steps you need to implement for coffee-making success:
1. Daily Cleaning:
- Empty and clean the drip tray and grounds drawer.
- Wipe down the exterior surfaces with a damp cloth.
2. Weekly Cleaning:
- Remove and clean the drip tray, steam wands, and portafilters thoroughly.
- Flush the machine with no coffee and include and coffee machine cleaner to remove oils and residue from the group heads.
3. Monthly Cleaning:
- Disassemble and clean easy-to-disassemble parts and clean thoroughly to remove any residue.
- Run a water and vinegar solution through the machine to descale it and remove mineral buildup.
How Often Should a Commercial Coffee Machine Be Cleaned?
The frequency of cleaning depends on your coffee machine's usage. For moderate to heavily trafficked establishments, daily cleaning is essential. Regular cleaning prevents the accumulation of coffee oils, mineral deposits, and mould, which can affect the taste of your coffee and the performance of your machine. Weekly and monthly cleaning routines should be followed consistently to maintain optimal brewing conditions.
What to Use for Cleaning a Commercial Coffee Machine
Using the right cleaning products and tools is crucial to ensure a thorough and effective cleaning process:
1. Coffee Machine Cleaner: Invest in a high-quality coffee machine cleaner specifically designed to remove coffee oils and residue. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for usage.
2. Blind Filter: A blind filter is used for backflushing the machine. It’s a specially designed filter attachment, like the attachment you put the coffee granules in, but it doesn’t contain holes. The blind filter is formulated to backflush and dislodge unwanted particles that may impact the performance of your coffee machine.
3. Steam Wand Brush: A steam wand brush helps remove milk residue from steam wands, preventing clogs and maintaining hygiene. Steam wand brushes are often made from nylon as it is durable and heat resistant. They’re designed to fit into narrow spaces and feature soft yet sturdy bristles so they can remove milk residue without causing damage to the steam wand’s surface.
4. Microfiber Cloth: Use a damp microfiber cloth to wipe down the exterior surfaces and remove dust and dirt. Microfiber cloths do not require chemicals as scientifically developed fibres are powerful in removing surface residue without the need for additives.
5. Descaling Solution: A descaling solution, often based on citric acid or vinegar, helps remove mineral buildup from internal components.
Coffee Machines, Cleaning Products, and Accessories are available at Reward Hospitality
Maintaining your commercial coffee machine doesn't need to be a challenge. Reward Hospitality offers a wide range of coffee machines, cleaning products, and accessories to support your coffee shop's needs. From professional cleaning solutions to essential maintenance tools, you'll find everything you need to ensure your coffee machine delivers exceptional brews consistently.
Keeping your commercial coffee machine clean is a fundamental aspect of serving high-quality coffee and extending the lifespan of your equipment. By following the recommended cleaning routines and using the right products, you'll create an inviting environment for customers while optimising the performance of your coffee machine.
Remember, a well-maintained coffee machine contributes to the heart and soul of your coffee shop's success. Invest the time and effort into cleaning, and you'll reap the aromatic rewards in every cup you serve.
Visit Reward Hospitality online to explore our selection of coffee machines, cleaning products, and accessories tailored to your coffee shop's needs. Our Customer Experience Team are available to help answer any questions you have via online chat, email, or phone. For those more complex enquiries, our expert team of Equipment Experts are available to offer their expertise to ensure you’re confident in your purchase and how to maintain your commercial coffee machine.
Dive into our Resource Centre to explore the Essential Guide to Milk Types for Every Cafe and a Buying Guide for Purchasing a Commercial Fridge, empowering you with valuable insights for your business success.
Disclaimer: This Reward Hospitality Resource is meant to provide general guidelines for cleaning and maintaining a commercial coffee machine. Always refer to your machine's user manual and follow the manufacturer's recommendations for cleaning and maintenance procedures.