Maintaining your Breville Barista Pro is essential for ensuring consistently great coffee and prolonging the life of your machine. Regular cleaning prevents buildup of coffee oils, minerals, and impurities that can impair performance and flavor. This guide provides clear, practical steps to clean your machine safely and thoroughly.
Follow these instructions carefully and consider using recommended cleaning products to keep your espresso maker running smoothly.
Key Takeaways
| Regular Cleaning is Key | Prevents buildup of oils and minerals. |
| Use Proper Cleaning Products | Breville-approved tablets enhance cleaning. |
| Handle with Care | Avoid damaging delicate parts during cleaning. |
| Deep Clean Periodically | Perform thorough cleaning weekly or monthly. |
| Replace Charcoal Filters | Ensure water taste remains pure. |
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Gather Your Supplies
- Breville cleaning tablets (e.g., Breville BEC250 or Replacement Tablets)
- Fresh water
- Soft cloth or sponge
- Cleaning brush (if needed)
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Turn Off and Unplug the Machine
Before cleaning, ensure the machine is turned off, unplugged, and cooled down to avoid injury or damage.
Clean the Brew Group and Portafilter
- Remove the portafilter and brew group from the machine.
- Rinse the portafilter under warm water and scrub with a soft brush to remove coffee oils.
- Soak the brew group in warm water with a cleaning tablet dissolved inside for 10-15 minutes.
Descale and Clean Internal Components
- Fill the water reservoir with a mixture of water and descaling solution or use a cleaning tablet according to product instructions.
- Run water through the machine without coffee to flush out oils and residues.
- Repeat with fresh water to rinse thoroughly.
Replace Charcoal Water Filters
Open the water reservoir and remove the old charcoal filter. Insert a new filter, ensuring it’s properly seated according to the instructions. This step helps maintain water purity and taste.
The Products in This Guide

Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
- ✔ Power: 1680W
- ✔ Voltage: 110-120V
- ✔ Material: Stainless steel

Breville BEC250 Espresso Machine Cleaning Tablets
- ✔ Shelf Life: 2 years
- ✔ Usage Frequency: Monthly
- ✔ Safety: Food-grade ingredients
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR

The Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR is an excellent choice for home baristas. Regular cleaning with recommended products helps keep it performing at its best, ensuring rich, flavorful espresso every time.
Pros:
- Integrated grinder for convenience
- Precise temperature control
- Pre-infusion for balanced extraction
- Sturdy build quality
Cons:
- Requires regular cleaning to maintain performance
- Learning curve for beginners
- Some parts may need replacement over time
Best for: Home espresso enthusiasts seeking quality and reliability
Not ideal for: Users looking for a fully automatic machine with minimal maintenance
Bottom line: A versatile and durable espresso machine that benefits greatly from routine cleaning.
Breville BEC250 Espresso Machine Cleaning Tablets

Using Breville BEC250 cleaning tablets regularly ensures your machine stays free of coffee oils and residues, extending its lifespan and maintaining optimal flavor.
Pros:
- Designed specifically for Breville machines
- Dissolves evenly for thorough cleaning
- Safe and food-grade ingredients
- Easy to use
Cons:
- Requires purchase in advance
- Used regularly, may need multiple packs
Best for: Maintaining cleanliness and flavor integrity in your espresso machine
Not ideal for: For those not using tablets or preferring manual cleaning
Bottom line: A trusted product that helps keep your espresso machine in prime condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I clean my Breville Barista Pro?
It’s recommended to perform a quick clean weekly and a deep clean monthly. Regular cleaning prevents buildup and maintains flavor quality.
Can I use regular household cleaning products on my espresso machine?
No, it’s best to use products specifically designed for espresso machines, such as Breville cleaning tablets, to avoid damage or residue.
How do I know when to replace the charcoal water filter?
Replace the filter every 2 months or when you notice a change in water taste or flow. Regular replacement keeps water tasting pure.
Is it safe to disassemble the machine for cleaning?
Yes, but only disassemble parts like the portafilter and brew group following the manufacturer’s instructions. Avoid tampering with internal components.
Keep Your Espresso Perfect with Regular Cleaning
By following these step-by-step cleaning procedures and using recommended products, you ensure your Breville Barista Pro remains in top condition. Regular maintenance not only prolongs the life of your machine but also guarantees consistently delicious espresso shots. Make cleaning a routine, and enjoy the full potential of your espresso experience.
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