FYI, Your Coffee Maker Is Probably Growing Mold And Yeast
If you’ve ever looked at your coffee maker, thought about cleaning it, and then proceeded to not go through with it, I feel you. But fellow coffee enthusiasts, this is a wake up call: Your coffee machine could be one of the dirtiest parts of your kitchen if not cleaned often, so disinfect that beauteous appliance immediately.
Bacteria, yeast, and mold could be growing in your machine because of irregular cleaning, and those little devils don’t discriminate–it doesn’t matter whether you have a coffee pot, a Keurig, or a fancy espresso machine. Not sure about you, but I prefer my coffee with a splash of milk and not a splash of bacteria.
The part of the machine that stores water—AKA the reservoir—is the biggest culprit of disgustingness. A National Sanitation Foundation International study found that half of the coffee reservoirs they tested contained mold and yeast. These may lead to allergic reactions or infections, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The study also found coliform, which is a strain of bacteria that can indicate Salmonella and E. coli, in some machines. No thanks!
The intense heat from the machine will kill some of the bacteria, but it’s not saving you from all of it. The water reservoir situation alone should make you want to cancel all of your plans to give your machine a deep clean, but you know what else is grimy? The coffee pot handle/top of the pod opener and your mug.
How do you clean the inside? It depends on what type of machine you have, but many benefit from using vinegar and water to give it a little detox. You can also buy solution that’s specifically made to cleanse your coffee maker. As for the outside, Clorox wipes will suffice. Try to wash your coffee mug in a dishwasher instead of using a potentially contaminated sponge.
Go! Now! Do it!
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