SELLWELL states that apple cider vinegar can work as a cleaning solution, but it is generally less preferred than white vinegar or citric acid because it may leave more smell and residue inside the water path if rinsing is not thorough.

SELLWELL explains that a typical coffee maker heating system raises water to about 92–96°C, which is suitable for brewing but below the rolling-boil guidance used by public health agencies for water disinfection. The CDC and EPA both advise bringing water to a full rolling boil for 1 minute, or 3 minutes above 6,500 feet, to kill disease-causing organisms and most microorganisms.