Avoid This Keurig Mistake Or You'll End Up With A Moldy Machine

It happens to most coffee drinkers who prepare their caffeine at home. Whether you are making a Keurig brew over iced Vietnamese coffee or just a regular cup of java, when you brew a cup using a Keurig pod, you might be making a classic mistake. You leave the pod in the coffee maker until the next time you make a cup of coffee. However, there is a slight problem with this standard operating procedure. When you leave a Keurig pod in the coffee maker, you are creating an ecosystem that is warm and damp. One might say it is perfect for breeding bacteria or mold. Yuck! 

Why does this happen? When you brew coffee using pods, the water passes through the grounds inside the pod. This moisture saturates the grounds to create your cup of Joe. If this is a recurring habit and the used pod is left in the coffee maker for a long period of time, it can lead to bacterial growth, which in turn can lead to a stale, off-tasting cup of coffee. So, what's the solution? If you want a better-tasting cup of coffee, clean your coffee maker.

Cleanliness means a better cup of coffee

If you are a Keurig pod coffee drinker, you want to make certain to pop out those used pods right after you brew your coffee. It's a little step that will help your coffee taste good every morning. Make certain to clean the needle in your Keurig coffee maker, as well as all the parts that are removable on a daily basis. This process usually involves just some warm soap and water. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's directions, as some pieces may even be dishwasher safe, which can make your life easier.

Additionally, you should consider descaling your coffee pot periodically, about every three to six months. The more frequently you use it, the more frequently you should clean it. Remember, coffee grounds contain oils, and residue builds up from hard water and minerals. To do so, remove the water filter and fill the water reservoir with equal parts white vinegar and water. Then run the water through the machine until the machine's "Add Water" light comes on. Integrate this chore into your cleaning schedule, and your coffee will always taste delish.