Nespresso Descaling Guide: How to Clean Your Nespresso® Machine Effectively
HOW-TO
Nespresso Descaling Guide: How to Clean Your Nespresso® Machine Effectively
Written by Monica
If you own a Nespresso® capsule coffee machine, chances are you’re wondering how to maintain it properly for long-lasting performance. Cleaning and descaling are two essential steps to keep your espressos tasting great. Here’s everything you need to know to descale a Nespresso® machine, with or without an official Nespresso descaling kit.
How to Descale a Nespresso® Machine?
Before you begin, make sure you have around 30 minutes to fully complete the nespresso descaling process on your coffee machine.
How Often Should You Descale Your Nespresso® Machine?
Descaling your Nespresso® machine regularly is essential for maintaining optimal performance, flavour, and longevity.
Recommended Descaling Frequency
Nespresso® recommends descaling your machine every 3 months or after 300 capsules, whichever comes first. However, the ideal frequency can vary depending on:
Water hardness in your area
Frequency of use
Machine model
If you live in a region with hard water, you may need to descale more often to prevent limescale buildup.
Signs Your Machine Needs Descaling
Watch for these signs that it’s time to descale:
Slower coffee flow
Lower cup volume
Unusual noises during brewing
Lukewarm coffee instead of hot
Blinking descaling alert (for machines with this feature)
Ignoring these indicators can lead to reduced pressure, weaker coffee, or even machine damage over time.
Descaling isn’t just a maintenance task — it’s key to preserving the rich aroma and crema that Nespresso® is known for.
30 min.
pers.
Ingredients
1 dose of Nespresso® descaling solution (or compatible alternative)
Fresh water
Material
Your Nespresso® capsule coffee machine (Vertuo, Pixie, Citiz, Lattissima, etc.)
A container to collect the used water
Preparation
Step 1Empty all containers (capsule bin and drip tray).
Step 2Fill the water tank with ¾ water and ¼ descaling solution.
Step 3Turn on your Nespresso® machine.
Step 4Press both cup buttons simultaneously (small + large) for 3 seconds to activate descaling mode.
Step 5Place the container under the spout and press the large cup button to start the cycle.
Step 6Let the entire solution run through, then repeat the process a second time.
Step 7Rinse the tank and run two clear water cycles using the large cup button.
Step 8Exit descaling mode by pressing the two buttons together again.
Step 1
Empty all containers (capsule bin and drip tray).
Step 2
Fill the water tank with ¾ water and ¼ descaling solution.
Step 3
Turn on your Nespresso® machine.
Step 4
Press both cup buttons simultaneously (small + large) for 3 seconds to activate descaling mode.
Step 5
Place the container under the spout and press the large cup button to start the cycle.
Step 6
Let the entire solution run through, then repeat the process a second time.
Step 7
Rinse the tank and run two clear water cycles using the large cup button.
Step 8
Exit descaling mode by pressing the two buttons together again.
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Can I Descale My Nespresso® Machine With White Vinegar?
Is vinegar a good alternative for descaling a Nespresso® machine?
We strongly advise against using white vinegar to descale your coffee machine, no matter the model. Although it may seem like a convenient DIY solution, vinegar contains acetic acid, which can:
Damage internal pipes and components
Cause leaks over time
Leave an unpleasant aftertaste and strong smell
For safe and effective maintenance, always use a certified descaling solution designed for coffee machines.
How to Descale Different Nespresso® Models?
How to Descale a Nespresso® Vertuo Machine?
Hold the button for 7 seconds to enter descaling mode
Follow the same descaling process outlined above
Descaling Nespresso® Citiz, Pixie, Lattissima, and More
Citiz & Pixie: Use both buttons (small and large cup)
Lattissima: Run extra rinsing cycles, especially after using the milk system
Delonghi & Krups models: Refer to your user manual of your coffee machine or watch a Nespresso descaling video
Shopping list
Cleaning – Descaler for espresso machines – Durgol
Now you know how to clean and descale your Nespresso® machine, and which products to use (or avoid). With just a little regular maintenance, you’ll ensure:
Your coffee machine lasts longer
Your coffee always tastes fresh
You avoid costly repairs due to limescale or clogs
