Can You Use Apple Cider Vinegar to Clean a Keurig?

Can You Use Apple Cider Vinegar to Clean a Keurig?

Morning coffee is a must in our house -especially now that we’re trying to night wean Jackson. After a long night, the last thing any of us mamas want in the morning is a funky tasting coffee. 

If you haven’t noticed from previous posts, I really like using natural cleaning solutions whenever I can, which is what lead me to ask, “Can you use apple cider vinegar to clean a keurig?” Good news, mama. You CAN! Here’s how to do it:

Can You Use Apple Cider Vinegar to Clean a Keurig?


Absolutely, you can use apple cider vinegar to clean your Keurig! Apple cider vinegar works wonders in tackling mineral deposits, coffee residue, and any funky tastes that may be lingering in your beloved coffee maker. 

What You’ll Need

First things first, let’s gather all the supplies you’ll need for this Keurig cleaning adventure

  • Apple cider vinegar
  • Damp cloth
  • Clean water
  • A few minutes of your time 

Creating Your Cleaning Solution

Mix equal parts of apple cider vinegar and clean water to create the perfect cleaning solution. Don’t worry; the vinegar smell will disappear, and your next cup of coffee won’t taste a hint of it!

How to Clean a Keurig with Apple Cider Vinegar

Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Power off and unplug the Keurig machine

Safety first, mommas! Before we dive into the cleaning process, make sure your Keurig machine is powered off and unplugged. Safety is always a top priority, especially when we’re dealing with hot water and electrical appliances.

2. Disassemble and clean removable parts

It’s time to give your Keurig a little TLC by taking apart the removable parts. Start with the water reservoir, K-cup holder, and any other parts that can be detached. Wash them with warm, soapy water or simply toss them into the dishwasher (if they’re dishwasher-safe, of course!). Remember, a clean coffee maker is a happy coffee maker.

3. Descale the machine using the apple cider vinegar solution

Mineral buildup is no match for our apple cider vinegar solution! Fill the water reservoir with the magical mixture you prepared earlier. Run a brewing cycle without any K-cups. This will help descale your Keurig, removing those pesky mineral deposits that can hinder the taste of your coffee.

4. Clean the exterior with a damp cloth

Don’t forget about the exterior of your Keurig machine. Grab a damp cloth and give it a good wipe down. This will remove any coffee oils or residue that may have built up over time. 

how to clean a keurig with lemon juice

Alternative cleaning method: lemon juice

If you don’t have apple cider vinegar on hand, don’t worry You can achieve a similar cleaning effect using lemon juice. Simply follow the same steps as above, substituting the apple cider vinegar with lemon juice.

Tips for Effective Cleaning

Use distilled or filtered water for better results

When it comes to keeping your Keurig in tip-top shape, the type of water you use makes all the difference. Opt for distilled or filtered water instead of plain tap water. This helps prevent mineral deposits from building up and ensures a cleaner, tastier cup of coffee every time. Remember, quality H2O equals quality coffee!

Regular cleaning

As moms, we know the importance of routines, and cleaning your Keurig should be no exception. Make it a habit to clean your coffee maker regularly. A simple cleaning session once a month can work wonders in maintaining its performance and extending its lifespan. So add it to your to-do list, and your Keurig will thank you!

Extra rinses to eliminate any vinegar smell or taste

If you’re concerned about that lingering vinegar smell or taste after cleaning, fret not! Simply run a few extra brewing cycles with plain water. This will help eliminate any traces of vinegar and ensure that your next cup of coffee tastes as fresh as ever. 

Deeper cleaning methods for stubborn mineral build-up

Sometimes, mineral build-up can be particularly stubborn. For those tough cases, consider a deeper cleaning method. You can purchase a descaling solution specifically designed for coffee makers, or try using citric acid or lemon juice as an alternative. Follow the instructions on the package or use our previous guide for the perfect recipe. 

Additional Considerations

Here’s a few more things to think about when you’re cleaning your Keurig:

Cleaning the water lines and reservoir lid

Pay special attention to the water lines and reservoir lid. Use a paper clip or a toothpick to gently clean any clogs or debris. This ensures that your Keurig operates smoothly and delivers a consistently great cup of coffee.

Removing coffee stains from the drip tray and brew basket

 To remove those stubborn marks from the drip tray and brew basket, soak them in warm, soapy water. Then, gently scrub with a sponge or cloth. Voila! Say hello to a spotless coffee maker and goodbye to those unsightly stains.

Proper cleaning of rubber gaskets to avoid sour taste

Rubber gaskets play a vital role in sealing your Keurig, but they can also be a breeding ground for unwanted flavors. To prevent a sour taste in your coffee, regularly clean and inspect these gaskets. Simply wipe them down with a damp cloth, ensuring they remain free of any residue or grime. 

Ensuring the use of clean water and a water filter cartridge

For that extra touch of freshness, consider using a water filter cartridge in your Keurig. These cartridges help purify the water, removing impurities that can affect the taste of your coffee. Remember to replace the cartridge as recommended by the manufacturer. Clean water means a cleaner and more flavorful cup of coffee!

FAQ

Q: Can you use white vinegar to clean a Keurig?

A: Absolutely! White vinegar is a great option for cleaning your Keurig. It’s like a superhero for battling mineral deposits and stubborn stains. Just mix equal parts white vinegar and water, follow the same steps as with apple cider vinegar, and you’re good to go!

Q: Will apple cider vinegar leave residue?

A: Nope, no need to worry! Apple cider vinegar won’t leave any residue behind in your Keurig. After cleaning, simply give your machine a thorough rinse with plain water to ensure a clean and residue-free brewing experience. Your taste buds will thank you!

Q: How can I clean a Keurig without vinegar?

A: If vinegar isn’t your thing, no problem! There are alternative methods you can try. You can use citric acid or even lemon juice to clean your Keurig.

Just swap out the vinegar with an equal amount of your preferred citrusy alternative, follow the same cleaning steps, and get ready for a sparkling clean coffee maker.

Q: How do I descale my Keurig?

A: Descaling your Keurig is essential to keep it running smoothly. To descale, you have a couple of options. You can use a descaling solution made specifically for coffee makers, following the instructions on the package.

Or, if you prefer a DIY approach, mix equal parts white vinegar and water. Fill the water reservoir with the solution, run a brew cycle without a K-cup, and repeat until the reservoir is empty. Finish off by rinsing the machine with several cycles of clean water.

Q: How do I clean mold out of my Keurig?

A: Mold is no fun, but we can tackle it! Start by unplugging your Keurig. Take apart the removable parts and give them a good scrub with hot, soapy water. Use a damp cloth or a soft brush to clean any moldy areas, making sure to reach all the nooks and crannies.

Rinse the parts thoroughly, dry them completely, and put everything back together. Remember to keep your Keurig dry, use filtered or distilled water, and give it regular cleaning to prevent mold growth.

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