descaler
Breville the Descaler (pack of 4), BES0070NUC1 / BES007
Breville's own single-dose descaling packets, an easy pick for anyone who owns a Breville espresso machine and wants to keep it free of limescale.
- Typical price
- about $15
How to Descale an Espresso Machine (and How Often)
Updated November 13, 2026
We research specs and owner feedback; we don't run hands-on tests. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Descale a home espresso machine every 2 to 3 months with average tap water, more often with hard water and less often with filtered or soft water. Use a descaler made for espresso machines, run it through the brew head and the steam wand, then flush with two full tanks of fresh water. Always follow your machine's manual: the exact button sequence is different for every model.
General descaling steps
- Empty and prepare. Remove the water filter if the tank has one, and empty the drip tray.
- Mix the descaler with water in the tank, following the dose on the package.
- Start the descale cycle if your machine has one. If not, run about half the solution through the brew head in short bursts.
- Run the rest through the steam wand and hot water outlet into a pitcher.
- Let it sit for the time the descaler recommends.
- Rinse. Fill the tank with fresh water and flush it through the brew head and wand. Repeat with a second tank.
- Pull and discard one shot before drinking the next.
How often should you descale?
| Your water | Descale about every |
|---|---|
| Hard tap water | 1 to 2 months |
| Average tap water | 2 to 3 months |
| Filtered or soft water | 4 to 6 months |
Many machines show a descale light or message. Signs you're overdue: slower flow, weaker steam, more noise from the pump, or white flakes in the water.
What to use
Use a descaler sold for espresso machines, ideally the one your manufacturer recommends. Many manufacturers advise against vinegar because it can leave a taste and may be hard on seals, so check your manual before using it.
Descaling is not the same as cleaning
Descaling removes mineral scale from inside the machine. Cleaning removes coffee oils from the group head and basket, usually with a cleaning tablet and a blank disc. Do both: they solve different problems.
Related guides
Frequently asked questions
How often should I descale my espresso machine?
About every 2 to 3 months with average tap water, every 1 to 2 months with hard water, and every 4 to 6 months with filtered or soft water. Follow the descale alert if your machine has one.
Can I descale an espresso machine with vinegar?
Many manufacturers advise against it because vinegar can leave a lingering taste and may affect seals. A descaler made for espresso machines is the safer choice; check your manual.
What happens if you never descale?
Mineral scale builds up in the heating system and pipes. Flow slows down, the water does not reach the right temperature, steam gets weaker and the machine can eventually clog or fail.