Espresso Machine Glow-Up: Before & After Cleaning and Tune-Ups

If you’re serious about your coffee, you know how much your espresso machine does for you. But over time, even the best machines can start to slow down or lose their sparkle. Maybe your espresso isn’t tasting quite right, or your machine looks a bit worn out. That’s when it’s time for a proper glow-up, a good clean and tune-up that can bring your machine back to life and make your coffee taste amazing again.

Why Give Your Espresso Machine a Glow-Up?

Espresso machines have a lot going on inside. Daily, they handle hot water, steam, coffee oils, and milk residue. Over time, these things build up and cause problems like:

  • Espresso tasting bitter or flat

  • Pressure and temperature are going all over the place

  • Steam wands are struggling to froth milk properly

  • Leaks or drips where there shouldn’t be any

  • A machine that looks a bit tired and dull

If you don’t address these issues, your machine might break down sooner than you want. A good clean and tune-up can fix everything and keep your machine running smoothly for years.


Barista cleaning coffee machine


How to Give Your Espresso Machine a Glow-Up

1. Take a Good Look First

Before you start, have a close look at your machine. Check for coffee stains, oily spots, milk crust on the steam wand, or leaks. This “before” look will help you see how much better things get after cleaning.

2. Time to Clean

  • Portafilter and Basket: Take these off and soak them in warm water with some espresso machine cleaner. Please give them a gentle scrub to remove old coffee oils and grime.

  • Group Head: Backflush your machine with a blind filter and cleaning powder to remove built-up oils. If you can, remove and soak the shower screen, then scrub it and the gasket area.

  • Steam Wand: Purge the steam, then soak the tip in a milk cleaner. Use a small brush to clean inside and get rid of hardened milk.

  • Drip Tray and Water Tank: Empty and wash these well to stop mould and smells.

  • Machine Exterior: Wipe down your machine with a damp cloth and polish any metal parts to make it shine.

3. Tune It Up

  • Descale: Run a descaling solution through your machine to clear mineral deposits. This helps with heating and water flow.

  • Replace Seals: Check the group head gasket and other seals. Swap them out if they’re cracked or stiff to avoid leaks.

  • Lubricate: If your machine has moving parts like a brew group, lubrication helps them work smoothly.

  • Grinder: Don’t forget to clean your grinder and check the burrs for wear.

What You’ll Notice After the Glow-Up

  • Espresso tastes fresher and more balanced.

  • Milk froths are quicker and creamier.

  • Your machine runs more smoothly with steady pressure and temperature.

  • It looks cleaner and more inviting on your counter.

  • Regular care means fewer breakdowns and a longer machine life.

Quick Glow-Up Checklist

  • Backflush weekly

  • Clean the portafilter and basket after every use

  • Wipe and purge the steam wand daily; deep clean weekly

  • Descalve every 1-2 months, depending on water hardness

  • Replace gaskets and seals as needed

  • Keep grinder clean and burrs sharp

  • Use filtered water to reduce scale

Final Thoughts

Taking a little time to clean and tune your espresso machine regularly is one of the best ways to ensure every cup tastes great. It’s not just about looks-it’s about keeping your machine working well so you can enjoy café-quality coffee at home.

So, why not start today? Grab your cleaning supplies, give your machine a glow-up, and enjoy your best espresso.
Location: Italy

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