The Key to Clean Portafilters

Many cafes will soak their portafilters in a cleaning solution but never really get in and scrub the grime out, hoping that the magical soak will do the job. Unfortunately if you don’t have something as powerful as the green scrubby, you’ll always be left with a hazy patina that might be preventing you from getting the most out of your espresso beans. This is true in many cases: dirty equipment costs you flavor in the cup.

When looking for a good scrubby to keep your portafilter clean, don’t grab for the sponge with a green side. Rather, go for the classic green scouring pad cut into 2” squares for easy reach into the nooks and crannies of the portafilter.

Pop the filter basket out every few hours and if you notice coffee build-up, give the inside of your portafilter a quick “one-two” with the scrubby. Depending on how busy you are, you’re good to go for another few hours.  Making this part of your regular cleaning routine will help keep your portafilters cleaner, longer. (Note the below photo shows a “scrubbed” portafilter compared to a “soaked only” one on the right.)