Descaling removes the mineral buildup that can negatively affect the taste of espresso.

Here’s how to clean and descale a Nespresso machine and tips for keeping it in great shape.

How to Descale a Nespresso Machine

Descaling removes calcium, magnesium, and other limescale minerals buildup.

How to clean a Nespresso machine hero image

The Spruce / Sanja Kostic

If you have complex or mineral-rich water, you must descale more frequently.

A descaling solution ordistilled white vinegarcan easily remove the buildup.

Some Nespresso models have a red warning light that will go on when descaling is needed.

Materials needed to clean a Nespresso machine

The Spruce / Sanja Kostic

Cleaning Different Nespresso Models

Some models have a milk steam wand or separate milk tank.

Also, descale these models, too.

In its FAQ, Nespresso warns against using vinegar for descaling and recommends the Nespresso descaling solution.

Cleaning the external parts of the Nespresso machine

The Spruce / Sanja Kostic

Wiping down the exterior of the Nespresso machine

The Spruce / Sanja Kostic

Reassembling the Nespresso machine after cleaning

The Spruce / Sanja Kostic

Running a cycle with vinegar to descale the Nespresso machine

The Spruce / Sanja Kostic