To clean a Breville Barista Express espresso machine, you need to perform what is called the "Clean Me" cycle using cleaning tablets and a silicone cleaning disc provided with the machine. Here's a step-by-step guide for the cleaning process:
- Turn off the machine.
- Empty the drip tray and fill the water tank with fresh, cold water up to the max line.
- Prepare the portafilter by placing the one-cup filter basket inside and then insert the silicone cleaning disc on top.
- Put one cleaning tablet in the center of the silicone cleaning disc.
- Lock the portafilter into the group head.
- Press and hold the 1 cup and 2 cup buttons simultaneously, then press and hold the power button for about 3 seconds until the clean me light starts flashing.
- The cleaning cycle begins and will last about 5 minutes, with water flowing through the portafilter into a container placed underneath.
- When the cycle finishes, the machine will beep three times.
- Remove the portafilter and check if the cleaning tablet has fully dissolved. If not, repeat the cleaning cycle.
- Rinse the machine with a full tank of water running through the group head, steam wand, and hot water dispenser to remove any remaining cleaning solution.
Regular cleaning and descaling help prevent the buildup of milk, coffee oils, and grounds, ensuring your machine continues to produce great coffee.
