As a Keurig owner, you’re likely no stranger to the convenience and deliciousness that comes with having a single-serve coffee maker in your home. However, with frequent use, your Keurig’s internal reservoir can become a breeding ground for bacteria, mold, and mineral deposits. These unwanted guests can affect the taste of your coffee, the performance of your machine, and even your health. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of cleaning the internal reservoir on your Keurig, so you can enjoy your favorite brews with peace of mind.
Why Cleaning the Internal Reservoir is Important
Before we dive into the cleaning process, it’s essential to understand why cleaning the internal reservoir is crucial. Here are a few reasons why:
- Prevents Bacterial Growth: Stagnant water in the reservoir can lead to the growth of bacteria, which can contaminate your coffee and make you sick.
- Removes Mineral Deposits: Mineral deposits, also known as scale buildup, can affect the performance of your Keurig and lead to costly repairs.
- Improves Taste: Cleaning the internal reservoir can remove any built-up residue that may be affecting the taste of your coffee.
- Extends the Life of Your Keurig: Regular cleaning can help extend the life of your Keurig by preventing damage caused by mineral deposits and bacterial growth.
What You’ll Need to Clean the Internal Reservoir
Before you start cleaning, make sure you have the following supplies:
- White Vinegar: White vinegar is a natural cleaning agent that’s effective at removing mineral deposits and killing bacteria.
- Water: You’ll need water to rinse the reservoir and Keurig.
- A Long, Thin Brush: A long, thin brush can help you reach into the reservoir and remove any built-up debris.
- A Cleaning Cloth: A cleaning cloth can be used to wipe down the exterior of your Keurig and remove any splatters or spills.
Step 1: Descale Your Keurig (Optional)
If you live in an area with hard water, you may need to descale your Keurig before cleaning the internal reservoir. Descaling removes mineral deposits that can affect the performance of your machine. You can purchase a Keurig descaling solution or use a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar.
To descale your Keurig, follow these steps:
- Pour the descaling solution into the water reservoir.
- Run a brewing cycle to allow the solution to flow through the machine.
- Repeat the process until the solution is gone.
- Rinse the reservoir and Keurig with fresh water.
Step 2: Mix the Cleaning Solution
To clean the internal reservoir, you’ll need to mix a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar. The acid in the vinegar will help break down any mineral deposits and kill bacteria.
- Pour 1 cup of white vinegar into a measuring cup.
- Add 1 cup of water to the measuring cup.
- Stir the solution to combine.
Step 3: Run the Cleaning Solution Through the Keurig
To clean the internal reservoir, you’ll need to run the cleaning solution through the Keurig. This will help loosen any built-up debris and mineral deposits.
- Pour the cleaning solution into the water reservoir.
- Run a brewing cycle to allow the solution to flow through the machine.
- Repeat the process until the solution is gone.
Tips for Running the Cleaning Solution
- Make sure to run the cleaning solution through the Keurig at least 3-4 times to ensure that the internal reservoir is fully cleaned.
- If you have a Keurig with a large reservoir, you may need to run the cleaning solution through the machine multiple times to fully clean the reservoir.
- If you notice any stubborn mineral deposits or debris, you can let the cleaning solution sit in the reservoir for 30 minutes to an hour before running it through the machine.
Step 4: Rinse the Reservoir and Keurig
After running the cleaning solution through the Keurig, it’s essential to rinse the reservoir and machine with fresh water. This will help remove any remaining vinegar taste and residue.
- Pour fresh water into the reservoir.
- Run a brewing cycle to allow the water to flow through the machine.
- Repeat the process until the water runs clear.
Step 5: Dry the Reservoir and Keurig
To prevent any water spots or mineral deposits from forming, it’s essential to dry the reservoir and Keurig after cleaning.
- Use a cleaning cloth to wipe down the exterior of the Keurig and remove any splatters or spills.
- Use a long, thin brush to dry the internal reservoir and remove any excess water.
Tips for Maintaining Your Keurig’s Internal Reservoir
To keep your Keurig’s internal reservoir clean and free of debris, follow these tips:
- Run a Cleaning Cycle Every 3-6 Months: Regular cleaning can help prevent mineral deposits and bacterial growth.
- Use Fresh Water: Always use fresh water in your Keurig to prevent mineral deposits and bacterial growth.
- Descale Your Keurig Regularly: If you live in an area with hard water, make sure to descale your Keurig regularly to prevent mineral deposits.
- Wipe Down the Keurig After Each Use: Use a cleaning cloth to wipe down the exterior of the Keurig and remove any splatters or spills.
Conclusion
Cleaning the internal reservoir on your Keurig is a simple process that can help improve the taste of your coffee, prevent bacterial growth, and extend the life of your machine. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can keep your Keurig’s internal reservoir clean and free of debris. Remember to run a cleaning cycle every 3-6 months, use fresh water, descale your Keurig regularly, and wipe down the Keurig after each use to maintain your machine’s performance and longevity.
What is the internal reservoir on my Keurig and why does it need to be cleaned?
The internal reservoir on your Keurig is a tank that holds water used for brewing coffee. It’s usually located at the side or back of the machine, depending on the model. Over time, mineral deposits, bacteria, and mold can build up inside the reservoir, affecting the taste of your coffee and potentially causing health issues.
Regular cleaning of the internal reservoir is essential to remove these contaminants and prevent them from growing back. It’s recommended to clean the reservoir every 3-6 months, depending on usage. If you notice any unusual tastes, odors, or sounds coming from your Keurig, it may be a sign that the reservoir needs to be cleaned.
What materials do I need to clean the internal reservoir on my Keurig?
To clean the internal reservoir on your Keurig, you’ll need a few basic materials. These include a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar, a long-handled brush or bottle brush, a cleaning cloth or paper towels, and a descaling solution (optional). You may also want to have a cup or container to catch any water that spills out during the cleaning process.
Make sure to use a cleaning cloth or paper towels that are lint-free to avoid leaving any fibers behind in the reservoir. If you have a Keurig model with a removable reservoir, you can also soak it in the vinegar solution for a more thorough cleaning.
How do I access the internal reservoir on my Keurig?
The location of the internal reservoir on your Keurig may vary depending on the model. For most models, you can access the reservoir by lifting the water tank or removing the side panel. Consult your Keurig’s user manual or online documentation for specific instructions on how to access the reservoir on your particular model.
Once you’ve accessed the reservoir, you may need to remove any screws or clips that hold it in place. Be careful not to spill any water that may still be inside the reservoir.
What is the best way to clean the internal reservoir on my Keurig?
The best way to clean the internal reservoir on your Keurig is to use a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar. Pour the solution into the reservoir and let it sit for about 30 minutes to allow the acid in the vinegar to break down any mineral deposits. Then, use a long-handled brush or bottle brush to scrub away any remaining debris or buildup.
After scrubbing, rinse the reservoir thoroughly with fresh water to remove any remaining vinegar solution. If you have a Keurig model with a removable reservoir, you can also soak it in the vinegar solution for a more thorough cleaning.
How often should I clean the internal reservoir on my Keurig?
It’s recommended to clean the internal reservoir on your Keurig every 3-6 months, depending on usage. If you use your Keurig frequently, you may need to clean the reservoir more often to prevent mineral buildup and bacterial growth.
Additionally, if you notice any unusual tastes, odors, or sounds coming from your Keurig, it may be a sign that the reservoir needs to be cleaned. Regular cleaning can help extend the life of your Keurig and ensure that it continues to brew great-tasting coffee.
Can I use a descaling solution to clean the internal reservoir on my Keurig?
Yes, you can use a descaling solution to clean the internal reservoir on your Keurig. Descaling solutions are specifically designed to remove mineral deposits and can be more effective than vinegar at removing stubborn buildup.
However, be sure to follow the instructions on the descaling solution carefully, as it can be harsh on some surfaces. Also, make sure to rinse the reservoir thoroughly after using a descaling solution to remove any remaining residue.
What are the benefits of cleaning the internal reservoir on my Keurig?
Cleaning the internal reservoir on your Keurig can have several benefits. It can help remove mineral deposits and bacterial growth, which can affect the taste of your coffee and potentially cause health issues. Regular cleaning can also help extend the life of your Keurig and prevent clogs and other maintenance issues.
Additionally, cleaning the internal reservoir can help improve the overall performance of your Keurig, ensuring that it continues to brew great-tasting coffee. By cleaning the reservoir regularly, you can enjoy better-tasting coffee and a longer-lasting machine.