When we plan to be away from home or simply won’t be using our coffee machine for a few weeks, proper storage is essential. Leaving water or residue inside can cause mold, corrosion, and internal clogging. Storing the machine the right way helps keep it clean, safe, and ready to brew perfectly when we return.
Why Proper Storage Matters
A coffee machine is constantly exposed to moisture, coffee oils, and minerals. When left unattended, these elements can turn into buildup or bacterial growth. Even a few weeks without cleaning or drying can result in stale smells, mold inside the tank, or damage to delicate internal parts. Proper storage ensures that we prevent these problems before they start, instead of dealing with repairs later.
Step One: Clean Thoroughly Before Storing
The first step before putting a coffee machine away is a complete clean. Every surface that touches water or coffee must be cleaned and dried. Run a cycle with clean water to flush out remaining coffee oils, then empty the tank completely. Wash the drip tray, portafilter, basket, and any removable parts in warm soapy water, rinse thoroughly, and let them dry in open air. Avoid leaving damp parts inside sealed containers or bags since trapped moisture is a perfect breeding ground for bacteria.
Step Two: Descale and Dry the System
If it’s been more than a few weeks since the last descaling, this is the perfect time to do it. Descaling removes mineral deposits that can harden and cause blockages while the machine sits unused. After descaling, run at least two full tanks of clean water through the system to remove any descaling solution. Once complete, leave the lid open and allow the interior to dry fully. This prevents moisture from settling inside and creating corrosion or odor.
Step Three: Store in a Clean, Dry Environment
Choose a cool, dry place for storage, away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Avoid damp areas such as basements, laundry rooms, or unventilated cupboards. Humidity encourages mold and can rust metal components. If you’re storing the machine for longer periods, cover it loosely with a breathable cloth or towel instead of sealing it inside plastic. That allows air circulation and prevents condensation buildup inside the machine.
Step Four: Protect Removable Parts
Many coffee machines come with detachable parts like water tanks, drip trays, and filters. Store these components separately. Wrap them in a clean cloth or paper towel to keep dust away, but make sure everything is fully dry first. If your machine has a milk frother, clean it carefully, then store it in a dry drawer. Rubber seals and gaskets should be wiped clean and stored away from heat to avoid cracking or hardening.
Step Five: Take Care of the Grinder and Coffee Storage
If your machine has an integrated grinder, empty all remaining beans from the hopper before storage. Coffee beans contain oils that can go rancid and leave a smell inside the grinder if left too long. Brush out the burrs or blades gently, and wipe the hopper with a dry cloth. Never wash grinder parts with water unless the manufacturer specifically allows it. For separate grinders or manual machines, keep them in a dry, closed cabinet where dust can’t accumulate.
Step Six: Avoid Sealing Moisture Inside
One of the biggest mistakes we can make is sealing a coffee machine immediately after cleaning. Even a small amount of hidden moisture inside the water tank, hoses, or brew head can cause internal mold growth. Always allow at least 24 hours of open-air drying before storing. Leave lids, hatches, and water tank covers open during that time. This ensures that all moisture escapes completely.
Step Seven: Storing for More Than a Few Months
If you plan to store your machine for several months, go one step further. After drying, wrap the power cord neatly and place a small silica gel pack inside the main compartment to absorb humidity. Keep the machine elevated from cold or damp floors by placing it on a shelf or in a cardboard box lined with paper. Avoid using airtight containers or plastic wraps that could trap condensation.
Step Eight: Reviving the Machine After Storage
When you’re ready to start using your coffee machine again, begin by rinsing and reassembling every removable part. Fill the tank with fresh water and run a full cycle without coffee to flush out any dust or residue that may have settled. If the machine has a grinder, add a small batch of fresh beans and discard the first grind. Check rubber seals for dryness or cracks before use. These small steps make sure the first brew tastes clean and the system runs smoothly again.
The Role of Regular Maintenance Even During Breaks
If you’re leaving for a long trip but someone is still home, it’s helpful to have them run the machine with clean water every couple of weeks. This keeps valves and pumps from drying out and prevents scale deposits from hardening. Machines left untouched for months often require more effort to restart because mineral buildup can solidify inside the pipes. Preventive care is always easier than post-storage repairs. For more detailed guidance or service options, you can visit our page on coffee machine repair in Calgary.
When to Seek Professional Help
If your coffee machine has been sitting for many months or shows signs of mold or odor after storage, a professional cleaning may be the safest choice. A technician can inspect the internal components, clear buildup, and ensure there’s no damage from corrosion. This step is especially important for machines with boilers or automatic milk systems, which are more complex and sensitive. To arrange an internal cleaning or tune-up, you can contact us.
Extra Tips from Experience
Based on our work with both home and commercial users, storing coffee machines properly prevents many costly repairs. Avoid wrapping cables tightly around the body, since this can damage plugs or connections. Keep instruction manuals and accessories together so they’re easy to find later. If you store ground coffee or beans nearby, use airtight containers to avoid attracting pests. And never forget that even unused machines benefit from light maintenance every few months—especially in changing weather conditions that bring humidity or dust.
FAQ
1. Should I empty the water filter before storing the machine?
Yes, remove and dry or replace the filter before long storage. Leaving it inside creates a moist environment for bacteria.
2. Can I store the coffee machine in the garage?
Avoid garages unless they’re climate controlled. Extreme temperature changes and humidity can damage internal components.
3. Is it okay to cover the machine with plastic?
No. Use a breathable fabric instead of plastic to prevent condensation and trapped moisture.
4. Do I need to lubricate any parts before storing?
Most home machines don’t require lubrication. Just make sure all parts are dry and clean before storage.
5. How should I restart the machine after long storage?
Rinse all parts, fill with fresh water, and run a full brewing cycle without coffee to flush out any dust or odors.
By taking these steps before and after long breaks, we protect our coffee machines from internal damage and bacterial growth. Proper storage keeps the system in excellent condition so that when we return, every cup tastes fresh and the machine performs just as it should.