Research reveals coffee machines can harbour more bacteria than a toilet seat – how to avoid this

We all know that cleaning our kitchen appliances is important. But sometimes we need a little wake up call to show us just how essential a regular cleaning regimen really is. This time it came in the form of research showing that coffee machines can harbour more bacteria than a toilet seat.

The thing that I make my morning coffee in is dirtier than a toilet seat?! It’s shocking (and pretty disgusting) to hear. But yes, apparently even the best coffee machine can contain two times more bacteria than how much is usually found on a toilet seat.

But there are ways to prevent this from happening in your coffee maker if you follow a few expert tips on how to clean a coffee machine properly. And perhaps even more importantly, how often you should be cleaning it.

Bacteria growth in coffee machines

‘There has been research by a non-profit public health organisation which suggests that coffee makers can harbour two times more bacteria than toilet seats because the warm and damp environment inside a coffee maker creates an ideal breeding ground for microorganisms, including bacteria and mould,’ says Petya Holevich, Fantastic Services' domestic cleaning expert and supervisor. 

‘Also, the combination of leftover coffee residue, water and the dark, enclosed space promotes bacterial growth.’

The research she refers to was done by NSF International, a public health and safety organisation.

But before you freak out, just know that the same is said about socks and it’s also a known fact that coffee grounds can often grow mould. If that’s any consolation (probably not).

Luckily, there is an easy solution so that your coffee machine gets to such a level of dirt. And that’s a proper and regular cleaning routine. So knowing how to clean your Nespresso machine (or whichever you own) is crucial. As is doing it often enough.

‘Ideally you should be rinsing out the carafe, filter basket, and any removable parts daily to minimise any build up,’ says Thea Whyte, coffee machine expert at AO.com. ‘Once you’ve rinsed them, allow the parts to air dry so that any moisture is reduced. However, if you’re unable to commit to daily cleaning, then a deep clean once a week will do.’

And you don’t even need any specialised cleaners to perform your deep clean as coffee machines are one of the things you can be cleaning with white vinegar.

‘For a deep clean, simply run a solution of water and white vinegar through the coffee machine – this helps to descale and disinfect the internal components. Afterwards, run a few cycles of plain water to remove any vinegar residue,’ Thea advises.

‘It's also important to descale your coffee maker regularly to remove mineral deposits that may encourage bacterial growth,’ she concludes.

No filthy coffee machines to be found here!