The Biggest Mistakes You Make Using Your Coffeemaker

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If that home-brewed morning cup isn't quite as satisfying as the one can buy at the coffee shop down the street, chances are you're not using your coffeemaker properly. But, by avoiding the following blunders, you can say farewell to stale, bitter cups of coffee.

1. Using warm water and old grounds

Make sure it's cold and they're fresh. Anything else will make your coffee taste stale.

2. Not using enough coffee 

According to the coffee experts at the SpecialtyCoffee Association of America, you should be using 2 tablespoons of coffee grinds for every 6 ounces of water.

3. Ignoring your dirty coffeemaker

Be sure to clean all parts of your coffeemaker, especially the ones that come in contact with the grinds.This will eliminate the oily residue that is often left behind and can affect the flavor of your coffee.

4. Never descaling your coffeemaker

Just like in other appliances, mineral deposits build up and clog the insides. This slows brewing time and changes the taste of your coffee. Descaling your machine every once in a while will clear clogs due to mineral deposits. First, remove the charcoal water filter if you have one. Next, simply fill the water reservoir to capacity with 1/3 white vinegar and 2/3 water and run a cycle.

5. Letting water sitting in the tank for weeks

If you haven't used your coffeemaker in more than a week, run a few cycles to purge the internal tank of any remaining water.

6. Brewing old coffee pods 

If you're using a single-serve machine, only buy as many coffee pods or capsules as you'll use in a few months. They might be vacuum-sealed, but the taste and aroma of coffee can still degrade.

From: Good Housekeeping US

By Emily Weinberger