Cleaning schedules and tools
How to establish proper cleaning schedules for grinders, and which tools and products are best for safe and effective maintenance.
- Coffee Basics Nerds
- 2 min read
Article 4 of 12 in Grinder Calibration & Maintenance/
Why Cleaning Matters
- Coffee oils and fines build up on burrs, chutes, and hoppers.
- Leads to rancid flavors, inconsistent grind, and grinder wear.
- Regular cleaning preserves flavor clarity and extends burr life.
Cleaning Schedules
- Daily:
- Empty hopper, brush out remaining beans.
- Wipe chute and surfaces with dry brush or cloth.
- Weekly:
- Use grinder cleaning pellets (food-safe, grain-based) to remove oils.
- Deep brush burrs and chute.
- Monthly:
- Disassemble burr chamber for full cleaning.
- Inspect burr wear, alignment, and seals.
- Quarterly (or after heavy use):
- Remove burrs, soak in mild detergent, rinse and dry fully.
- Clean hopper with warm soapy water, rinse thoroughly.
Tools & Products
- Brushes: Dedicated grinder brushes with firm bristles for burrs and chutes.
- Vacuum Cleaner: To remove fines from hard-to-reach spaces.
- Cleaning Pellets (e.g., Grindz): Run through grinder to absorb oils.
- Microfiber Cloths: For external wipe-down.
- Mild Soap + Warm Water: For hoppers and removable parts (never burrs if uncoated steel).
Safety Notes
- Always unplug grinder before disassembly.
- Avoid water contact with motor or electrical parts.
- Ensure burrs are fully dry before reassembly to prevent rust.
Summary
A structured cleaning schedule keeps grinders consistent and safe. Daily brushing, weekly pellet cleaning, monthly burr checks, and quarterly deep cleans prevent rancid buildup and mechanical issues. With the right tools and discipline, grinders deliver clean, reliable performance for years.