A Step-by-Step Guide: How to Clean Your Keurig Coffee Maker

Step 1: Gather the Supplies Before starting the cleaning process, gather the necessary supplies. You'll need white vinegar, water, a clean cloth or sponge, a paperclip or Keurig-approved cleaning tool, and a sink.

Step 2: Unplug and Disassemble Turn off and unplug your Keurig coffee maker. Remove any remaining pods from the pod holder and empty the water reservoir. Take apart any removable parts such as the drip tray and K-cup holder.

Step 3: Clean the External Parts Dampen a clean cloth or sponge with warm, soapy water and wipe down the exterior of the coffee maker, including the housing, control panel, and any buttons or dials. Rinse and wring out the cloth to remove any soap residue, then wipe the surfaces again. Dry with a clean, dry cloth.

Step 4: Clean the Water Reservoir and Lid Fill the sink with warm water and a tablespoon of dish soap. Remove the water reservoir and lid from the coffee maker and place them in the sink. Use a sponge or cloth to clean both thoroughly, ensuring all surfaces are free from any coffee residue. Rinse with clean water and dry with a towel.

Step 5: Descale the Internal Components Descaling is an essential step to remove mineral buildup and maintain the performance of your Keurig. Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water and fill the water reservoir halfway. Place a large mug or container on the drip tray to catch the liquid.

Step 6: Run Cleaning Brews Turn on your Keurig coffee maker and start the brew cycle without inserting a K-cup. Allow the vinegar-water solution to run through the machine. Repeat this process until the water reservoir is empty. Discard the liquid in the mug or container.

Step 7: Rinse and Flush Once the descaling process is complete, fill the water reservoir with clean water. Run several brew cycles without a K-cup to flush out any remaining vinegar residue and ensure a clean, fresh taste.

Step 8: Clean the Removable Parts While the Keurig is still disassembled, clean the removable parts such as the drip tray, K-cup holder, and funnel. Use warm, soapy water and a sponge to scrub away any residue. Rinse and dry thoroughly.

Step 9: Reassemble and Run a Test Brew After all the components have been cleaned and dried, reassemble the Keurig coffee maker. Fill the water reservoir with fresh water and run a test brew with a K-cup to ensure everything is functioning properly.