How To Descale Nespresso Vertuo in Just 4 Steps: Quick and Easy Guide

7 min read JAN 21, 2023

Are your Nespresso Vertuo brews tasting a bit off and the machine looking dirtier than usual? Then it's time to descale. Descaling is essential for keeping these amazing machines in prime condition so you can continue enjoying delicious coffee cups. It's no secret that Nespresso is renowned for its top-notch coffees - but only if they're properly taken care of with regular descaling sessions.

Don't know where to begin? Let's get started.

If you're ready to enjoy your freshly brewed coffee again, use this quick guide to descaling your Nespresso Vertuo machine. 

Steps to Descale Your Nespresso Vertuo Machine


With every cup of coffee, you make in your Nespresso VertuoLine machine, a slurry of tiny debris is left behind. While they may seem insignificant at first glance, these remnants accumulate over time and can drastically affect the flavor of your beverages. Without regular descaling processes, pressure levels in the system decrease, leading to an unfortunate taste deterioration - transforming that delicious brew into wasteful watery sludge.

It is, therefore, very important to descale your Nespresso VertuoLine machine.

Ready to get started? Set aside a few moments, and follow this comprehensive guide. In no time, you'll have your Nespresso machine descaled and ready for use. Let's dive in. 

Step 1: Nespresso Descaling Solution

To begin the descaling process on your machine, you'll need to acquire a descaling kit and collect some clean water along with an ample-sized container.

To restore your Nespresso machine to its original performance, visit a nearby Nespresso retail store or simply order the descaling kit online. The specially-formulated chemical fluid in this kit dissolves mineral deposits and other residues that have built up over time for the optimal functioning of your machine.

Before you begin, make sure your Nespresso Vertuo is emptied of any left-over coffee pods.

Next, position the container below where the liquid comes from your machine. This will accumulate all of the water discharged from your device.

Next, pour the descaling liquid into your Nespresso machine with half a tank of water in its reservoir. 

Step 2: Begin the Descaling Procedure

Once you've got all the components in place and your coffee maker clear of any rogue coffee pods, you're prepared to begin brewing.

Press and hold the 'on' button on your machine until the steady indicator light turns off, after which it will begin to blink rapidly. This entire process should not take more than seven seconds, so be patient while you wait for the blinking light to appear.

When the flashing light appears, your machine has entered descaling mode and will dispense the solution intermittently. The light is a reminder that it is actively cleaning itself for optimal performance.

After dispensing the entire descaling liquid, your Vertuo machine should automatically shut down. This indicates that you have completed its descaling cycle. 

Step 3: Rinse Out the Machine

Even after the machinery has been shut down, the decalcification process is not yet complete.

Even though the machine is now residue-free, you'll want to ensure that no chemical substances remain inside it.

To ensure that your machine is thoroughly rinsed, you must discard the solution from the container and then run clean water through it. Place the container back under the coffee spout to finish off this step.

Afterward, pour the water inside the tank and rinse it with clean liquid. Then, fill up 2/3 of its capacity before putting it back in place.

To begin the rinsing process, simply press the button on the machine and watch it do its job.

Like before, the machine will cease running when the water tank is completely drained. Ensure that you dispose of the filtered water once more.

Step 4: Deactivate the Descaling Mode 

To conclude the descaling procedure, you must reset your device and return it to its original brewing mode.

To complete this task, start by draining the water tank. Afterward, press and hold the button until you see a steady flashing light - it may take up to seven seconds for it to happen, so be patient.

After refilling the water tank with fresh, clean water, carefully place it back into your machine. Now that you've completed this task, takes a moment to empty and rinse both the capsule container and drip tray using warm water for optimal sanitation.

A Word of Caution: Avoid using soap when cleaning the drip tray and capsule container to avoid leaving behind any soapy residue that may compromise the taste of your coffee. Specifically, do not use soap for the capsule container.

Lastly, remove any unwanted residue from the external surface of your machine by wiping it down with a moistened cloth.

Congratulations on descaling your Nespresso Vertuo. Get ready to enjoy a wonderful-tasting cup of coffee with ease once again. 

How To Know If You Need Descaling?

Nespresso machines, such as the VertuoPlus and Lattissima models, have a light that changes color when it's time to descale - usually from green to orange.

However, not all Nespresso Vertuos feature this alert system, so you should keep track of how many pods you've used or when your last descaling was; generally speaking, we recommend doing it every 300 capsules or three months for optimal performance.

If you don't have the light indicator, it's up to you to decide when descaling is necessary. Descale your machine regularly to ensure that it runs optimally and so that you can enjoy delicious coffee for years to come. 

How Frequently Should You Descale a Nespresso Vertuo Machine?

Nespresso recommends descaling their VertuoLine machines every three months or whenever 300 capsules have been used, whichever comes first.

However, certain factors such as the age of the machine and water hardness can influence how often it should be cleaned; ultimately though Nespresso provides sound advice on maintaining its products.

Cleaning the machine every three months or when 300 capsules have been used ensures that performance and taste remain optimal, prolonging the product's lifespan. 

How Safe is it to Utilize Vinegar for Descaling?


Don't fall for the temptation of using everyday items such as vinegar, baking soda, or lemon juice to clean your Nespresso Vertuo machine - they could cause irreparable damage.

Instead, invest in a cleaning kit specifically designed by Nespresso. Avoid expensive mistakes and keep your coffee-making companion safe with an easy solution that won't break the bank.

In conclusion


To ensure that your Nespresso coffee maker is always running in tip-top condition, regularly clean and descale it. Thanks to this machine's design, all you need is 20 minutes of your time, some water, and a bit of descaling fluid to thoroughly clean and ensure it's ready for the next batch of coffee. Following the instructions listed above, descaling your machine doesn't have to be hard - just remember to use specific Nespresso cleaning supplies and avoid everyday household items such as vinegar or baking soda to keep your Vertuo in prime condition. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


What is descaling?


Descaling removes mineral deposits and other build-ups from your coffee maker, allowing it to run more efficiently and produce better-tasting coffee. Descaling should be done regularly with a Nespresso Vertuo machine to keep it working optimally.

How often do I need to descale my Nespresso Vertuo machine?


Nespresso recommends that you descale your VertuoLine machine every three months or after 300 capsules have been used, whichever comes first. If you're unsure when your last descaling was, keep track of how many capsules you use each month as a guide for when to clean it next.

Is descaling difficult?


No, descaling is relatively easy. All you need is some time (about 20 minutes), water, and special Nespresso cleaning fluid. Just follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully, and your coffee machine will be as good as new.

How can I tell if my Nespresso Vertuo needs to be descaled?


If your coffee machine is making a strange noise or you're noticing a decrease in the quality of the coffee produced, it's probably time to descale. Additionally, if water takes longer than usual to heat up or doesn't seem to reach its optimal temperature, this could also indicate the need for descaling.

What supplies do I need for descaling my Nespresso Vertuo?


You will need special Nespresso cleaning fluid and some fresh tap water to complete the process. You may also want to have an empty container handy that you can place under the drip tray while performing the descaling.

Where can I purchase Nespresso cleaning fluid?


You can purchase special Nespresso cleaning fluid from Nespresso stores or online. Depending on where you live, it may also be available in a local retail store. Make sure to check the ingredients carefully before buying so that you know you are getting the correct product for your machine type.

Is descaling dangerous?


No, descaling is not dangerous as long as it is done according to the manufacturer's instructions. However, make sure to follow all safety procedures and wear gloves if applicable, when handling any chemicals or liquids used during the process.

What should I do after descaling my Nespresso Vertuo?


After descaling, rinse out the water tank and drip tray with fresh tap water. Then fill the reservoir with fresh cold drinking water and run a blank cycle without any coffee capsules to ensure that all traces of cleaning liquid have been effectively removed. This will help ensure that your coffee tastes great every time you use your machine.

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References:
https://www.nespresso.com/static/us/documents/VertuoPlus%20Descaling%20Guide.pdf
https://tastycoffeemaker.com/descale-nespresso-vertuoline/
https://www.brewcoffeehome.com/descaling-nespresso-vertuo-and-original/
https://finance.yahoo.com/news/clean-nespresso-machine-203006586.html
https://fluentincoffee.com/how-to-descale-nespresso-vertuo/

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