Cuisinart has become one of the most recognizable names in small kitchen appliances, and that includes their popular coffee makers. The brand’s workhorse machines boast convenient and beautiful features like stainless steel carafes, programmable functions, and even (in some cases) built-in bean grinders, all for a steal of a price. What’s not to love?
But all coffee makers have to be cleaned from time to time. According to Kayla Stavridis, a former Starbucks barista and current head of marketing at baristahq.com, “Proper maintenance and cleaning of your coffee maker are crucial not only for the longevity of the appliance, but also to ensure the best-tasting coffee.”
If you’ve ever wondered how to clean a Cuisinart coffee maker, you’ve come to the right place! In this article, experts will teach you the process of keeping your brew machine in top shape with both regular cleanings and periodic deep-cleanings and descalings.
How Often to Clean Your Cuisinart Coffee Maker
Your coffee carafe, whether glass or stainless steel, should be cleaned daily. Other parts of your coffee maker that get regular use, like the basket, should be cleaned with dish soap and water at least once or twice per week, according to appliance pros, although some do clean these parts daily as well.
Cleaning experts recommend a deep-cleaning at least once each month if you use your coffee maker daily. While some people follow a regular cleaning schedule, others wait for signs that it’s time to clean yours. Here are some things that could indicate your coffee maker needs a deep-cleaning.
How to Clean a Cuisinart Coffee Maker
Some of Cuisinart’s coffee maker models are relatively straightforward, meaning they consist of a basket that brews directly into a carafe, while others have more bells and whistles. Regardless of the model you have for your morning Joe, it’s imperative to keep it clean.
The good news? It’s super simple to keep a coffee maker clean! All you need is a bit of dish soap for regular maintenance. Stavridis shares her step-by-step method for cleaning a coffee maker with dish soap and warm water. After ensuring the machine is turned off, empty, and cooled down, remove the filter basket and carafe, and do the following:
How to Descale a Cuisinart Coffee Maker
Over time, mineral deposits and oils from coffee beans can build up on your coffee maker. Some Cuisinart models are able to warn you when this has occurred, while older models might not include this feature. “Hard water can leave mineral deposits (scale) inside your coffee maker, hindering performance and affecting coffee flavor,” Stavridis says. She advises you descale your Cuisinart coffee maker every three to six months depending on your water hardness and frequency of use.
You can purchase a commercial descaling agent online and in stores, but it’s equally effective to use vinegar to descale your Cuisinart coffee maker. Stavridis shares how to clean a Cuisinart coffee maker with vinegar below.
