Nespresso coffee machines are famous for delivering a wide range of quality coffees at the touch or a button. But there’s a lot more to know about them to get the best out of your machine.
So whether you're already a coffee connoisseur or you’re just getting into pod coffee, this guide will help you nail your Nespressos every time. From setup to step-by-step coffee making and maintenance, we’ve got you covered. Let’s get brewing!
Understanding your Nespresso machine model
In the world of Nespresso machines, it’s not one size fits all. Especially where capsules are concerned. There are broadly two kinds of Nespresso coffee machines around: Original and Vertuo. So it’s best to check which you have before starting. Or, if you’re in the process of picking a Nespresso machine, this table will break down some of the key differences:
| Feature | Nespresso Original | Nespresso Vertuo |
|---|---|---|
| Coffee styles | Espresso, Lungo | Espresso, Double Espresso, Gran Lungo, Mug, Alto |
| Best for | Espresso lovers, milk-based drinks | Larger cups, American-style coffee |
| Brewing technology | High-pressure pump | Centrifusion (spinning + barcode scanning) |
| Crema quality | Rich, traditional espresso crema | Thick, foamy crema (even on large coffees) |
| Capsule shape | Small, cylindrical | Dome-shaped with barcode |
| Capsule compatibility | Many third-party options | Only Nespresso and select partners |
| Customisation | Manual control on some models | Automatic brewing based on capsule barcode |
Preparing your machine for first use
Regardless of the type of Nespresso machine, they all require a little TLC before you can start brewing. Here’s what you need to do:
Unbox and inspect: Remove packaging and make sure all parts are included. Check the manual to make sure you have everything.
Give detachable parts a wash: Give your water tank (and anything else detachable) a quick rinse.
Plug it in: Find a home for it on a stable, heat-resistant surface and plug it into a power outlet.
Fill the water tank: Fill the water tank with fresh, cold water. Make sure to use filtered water if your tap water is hard.
Run a rinse cycle: Pop a large cup or bowl under the coffee outlet. Turn on the machine and press any of the coffee buttons until they start blinking. Then press the Lungo button (i.e. the bigger cup) to let the fresh water rinse the inside of the machine. Repeat 3 times.
Ready!
Brewing your first cup of coffee
Now that your machine is ready, it’s time to brew your first cup of coffee. Follow these simple steps:
Choose a coffee pod: Select a Nespresso pod that suits your taste. There are many varieties available, from strong and bold to light and smooth.
Insert the pod: Open the machine’s capsule holder and insert the pod. Close the holder firmly.
Select the brew size: Decide whether you want an espresso (small cup) or a lungo (large cup). Press the corresponding button to start the brewing process.
Enjoy your coffee: Once the brewing is complete, remove the pod and dispose of it in the designated capsule container. Pour your coffee into a cup and enjoy!
Choosing the right coffee pods
The right coffee pod can make all the difference in your coffee experience. Just make sure you pick the right type of capsule, either Original or Vertuo. Nespresso offers a wide range of pods, each with its own flavour profile. Here are some tips to help you choose:
Flavour preferences: What kind of coffee floats your boat? Do you like a strong, intense coffee or a milder, more aromatic one?
Caffeine content: Some pods have higher caffeine content than others. So check the packaging for details.
Variety packs: If you’re unsure, try a variety pack to sample different flavours and find your favourite.
Specialty pods: Nespresso also offers specialty pods, such as decaf, hot chocolate and flavoured options. So everybody can enjoy their own drink.
Cleaning and maintaining your machine
Regular cleaning and maintenance are crucial to keep your Nespresso machine running smoothly and to ensure the best coffee quality. Here’s how to do it:
Daily cleaning: After each use, remove and dispose of the used pods. Wipe the machine with a damp cloth to keep it clean.
Descale the machine: Over time, limescale can build up in your machine. Use a descaling solution every 3-6 months, depending on your water hardness.
Clean the water tank: Empty and clean the water tank regularly to prevent bacteria and mineral buildup.
Check the capsule container: Make sure the capsule container is not full, as this can affect the machine’s performance.
For a deeper clean, check out our comprehensive guide to cleaning a Nespresso machine.
Troubleshooting common machine issues
Even with the best care, issues can arise. Here are some common problems and how to fix them:
Machine not turning on: Check if the machine is properly plugged in and if the power outlet is working.
Water not heating: Ensure the water tank is filled and the machine is not in a descaling or cleaning cycle.
Pod not ejecting: Sometimes, the pod may get stuck. Gently remove it and check if the capsule holder is clean.
Coffee tastes off: If your coffee doesn’t taste right, it might be time to descale the machine or clean the coffee pod holder.
For more detailed troubleshooting, refer to the user manual or contact Nespresso customer support.
Enhancing your coffee experience
Once you’re comfortable with the basics, you can start levelling up your coffee experience. Here are a few tips:
Experiment with milk: Try different milk types to find the perfect match for your coffee, such as whole milk, skim milk or plant-based alternatives.
Use a milk frother: Many Nespresso machines come with a milk frother. Learn how to use it to create creamy, frothy milk for lattes and cappuccinos. If your machine doesn’t come with one, check out our range of milk frothers.
Adjust the brew strength: Some machines allow you to adjust the brew strength. Play around with the settings to find your ideal cup.
Store pods properly: Keep your pods in a cool, dry place to maintain their freshness and flavour.
What’s next?
Check out our our full range of coffee machines. And to help you choose, here’s our award-winning interactive Coffee buying guide. It’ll ask you questions about what you’re looking for and match you with your perfect coffee machine. And even if you’re not looking for a machine, it’s just plain fun to use!
