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How To Clean Water Reservoir in Coffee Maker

2026-01-21

The water reservoir is one of the most important and most overlooked parts of a coffee maker. It holds standing water, comes into direct contact with heat, and feeds the internal brewing system. If it is not cleaned regularly, mineral deposits, biofilm, odors, and even mold can develop, directly affecting coffee taste and machine hygiene.

As a manufacturer and supplier of coffee makers and beverage appliances, Sellwell International Enterprises Limited designs products with food-contact-safe reservoir materials, smooth internal surfaces, and user-accessible structures, making reservoir cleaning safer and more effective for daily users.


Why the Water Reservoir Needs Regular Cleaning

The water reservoir is especially vulnerable because:

  • Water often sits inside between uses

  • Minerals from tap water accumulate over time

  • Warm conditions encourage residue buildup

  • Residual moisture promotes odor and microbial growth

Even if coffee tastes acceptable, an unclean reservoir can reduce appliance lifespan and compromise hygiene.


Step 1: Turn Off and Unplug the coffee maker

Before cleaning:

  • Switch the Coffee Maker off

  • Unplug it from the power source

  • Allow it to cool completely

This prevents electrical risk and protects internal components during cleaning.


Step 2: Remove the Water Reservoir

If the reservoir is detachable, remove it completely.

Sellwell coffee makers commonly use removable or wide-opening reservoirs, allowing users to clean all internal surfaces directly rather than relying only on internal flushing.

If the reservoir is fixed, extra care is needed during manual cleaning to avoid spilling water into electrical areas.


Step 3: Wash the Reservoir Interior and Exterior

Use warm water and a mild dish detergent.

Best practices:

  • Use a soft sponge or bottle brush

  • Clean corners, seams, and the base thoroughly

  • Avoid abrasive pads that can scratch surfaces

  • Rinse multiple times to remove soap residue

Smooth reservoir surfaces are easier to clean and less likely to trap buildup, which is a key design consideration in Sellwell products.


Step 4: Remove Mineral Deposits or Odors

If you notice cloudy residue, white scale, or unpleasant smells:

  • Fill the reservoir with a mild descaling solution suitable for beverage appliances

  • Let it sit briefly to loosen buildup

  • Gently scrub affected areas

  • Rinse thoroughly until water runs clear

Mineral deposits are common in hard-water regions and should be addressed regularly to maintain proper water flow.


Step 5: Clean the Reservoir Connection Area

The area where the reservoir connects to the coffee maker can also collect residue.

  • Wipe the outlet area with a damp cloth

  • Ensure no debris blocks water flow

  • Dry carefully before reattaching

A clean connection supports consistent brewing performance and reduces internal contamination.


Step 6: Dry Completely Before Reassembly

After washing:

  • Air-dry the reservoir fully

  • Dry the lid and any seals

  • Avoid reassembling while moisture remains

Leaving the reservoir lid open between uses helps prevent trapped moisture and odor formation.


How Often to Clean the Water Reservoir

Recommended frequency:

  • Rinse and dry every few days for daily use

  • Wash with detergent weekly

  • Deep clean more frequently in hard-water areas

  • Clean immediately after long periods of non-use

Regular attention prevents heavy buildup and reduces the need for aggressive cleaning later.


Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Using harsh chemicals not intended for food-contact surfaces

  • Scrubbing with abrasive tools that damage plastic

  • Ignoring odors or discoloration

  • Leaving water sitting in the reservoir for long periods

These practices increase the risk of residue accumulation and material degradation.


Why Reservoir Design Matters

From a manufacturing perspective, reservoirs that are easier to keep clean typically feature:

  • Food-grade materials with low absorption

  • Smooth internal geometry

  • Detachable construction

  • Clear visibility for inspection

Sellwell integrates these design principles to help users maintain hygiene with minimal effort and consistent results.


Conclusion

Cleaning the water reservoir in a coffee maker is a simple but essential maintenance step. By removing the reservoir, washing it thoroughly, addressing mineral buildup, and allowing complete drying, users protect coffee flavor, appliance performance, and long-term reliability.

Coffee makers designed with accessible reservoirs and durable, food-safe materials—such as those supplied by Sellwell International Enterprises Limited—make routine cleaning easier, supporting safe daily use and consistently better coffee.


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