If your Keurig is brewing slowly, making short cups or tasting off, mineral scale is the likely culprit. Here is how to clean a Keurig with vinegar: a simple descale you can do in about an hour, plus quick weekly cleaning.
Always check your model’s manual first; some brands recommend their own descaling solution.
The Short Answer
Empty the reservoir, fill it halfway with undiluted white vinegar and top with water, then run brew cycles with no pod until the reservoir is empty. Let it sit 30 minutes, then rinse by running 10 to 12 cycles of fresh water to remove the vinegar taste.
What You Need
- White distilled vinegar
- Fresh water
- A large mug
- A paper clip or needle cleaning tool
- A soft brush such as a long-handle silicone coffee machine cleaning brush and a microfiber cloth
How to Descale a Keurig with Vinegar
Step 1: Empty and remove parts
Turn off and unplug the machine. Remove any pod, empty the reservoir and remove the water filter if yours has one.
Step 2: Add vinegar
Fill the reservoir about halfway with white vinegar and top up with water.
Step 3: Brew without a pod
Plug in, place a large mug on the tray, and run the largest brew size with no pod. Dump the mug and repeat until the add-water light comes on.
Step 4: Let it sit
Leave the machine on for 30 minutes so the vinegar can dissolve scale.
Step 5: Rinse thoroughly
Rinse the reservoir, fill with fresh water, and run 10 to 12 brew cycles until there is no vinegar smell.
Clean the Needle
A clogged exit needle causes weak or short cups. With the machine unplugged, open the pod holder and gently clear the needle holes with a straightened paper clip. Rinse the pod holder under warm water.
Weekly Cleaning
- Wash the drip tray and reservoir with warm, soapy water.
- Wipe the exterior with a damp cloth.
- Leave the reservoir lid open to dry to prevent musty smells.
Equipment I Used
- Large airtight food storage container: for leftovers and freezer portions.
Planning a busy week? The Slow Cooking for Busy Days guide covers time-saving slow cooker recipes and meal planning.
Clean a Keurig FAQ
How often should I descale my Keurig?
Every 3 to 6 months, or sooner with hard water or when the descale light comes on.
How do I get the vinegar taste out of my Keurig?
Run 10 to 12 cycles of fresh water. If you still taste it, run a few more.
Can I use apple cider vinegar?
White distilled vinegar is best; apple cider vinegar can leave a taste and residue.
Why is my Keurig only filling half a cup?
Usually scale buildup or a clogged needle. Descale and clean the needle.
