How to descale a Breville espresso machine

Why the steps depend on your model

Descaling clears the mineral buildup (limescale) that hard water leaves inside a machine. Breville makes several machines, and each has its own descale routine. There's no single set of steps for all of them.

We haven't used any of these machines, so this page doesn't invent a method. It sticks to what Breville's own pages say. Breville's support page puts it this way: "Use the recommended descaling solution and follow the complete descale and rinse procedure for your specific model." ¹

Not sure which Breville you own? Our rundown of the Breville range and how the models differ lists the main ones.

When to descale

Breville's support page says to "Complete the recommended descale cycle when prompted or according to the maintenance instructions for your machine." ¹

Some models tell you. Here's Breville's Barista Touch page. "Your Barista Touch™ will indicate when a descale cycle is needed." ⁵ For the Barista Express Impress, the page says "If the maintenance light on your Barista Express® Impress has turned on, it's time to perform a descale cycle." ⁶

Breville's blog adds a rough schedule. "You should also descale your coffee machine every one to three months, depending on how often it's used." That's a general blog line, not a rule for your model, so your manual wins if the two differ. ³

What to use

Breville's support article on descaling says "Use only an approved, machine-compatible descaling solution and follow the product label directions." ²

Which one is approved for you? Breville's cleaning blog agrees. "Consult your espresso machine's manual to choose the best cleaning solution for your machine." ⁴ The Barista Express Impress page says a descaler packet "came with your machine." ⁶

What about vinegar?

Breville's support article on descaling is blunt. "Do not use vinegar." ²

That article lists specific Breville models, including the Bambino, Barista Express, Barista Pro, Dual Boiler and Oracle lines. Follow it, and your manual. If you're unsure, ask Breville support before using anything but the solution your manual names. ²

The general flow, so you know what to expect

Breville's cleaning blog describes a general pattern. It isn't a set of steps for your machine, so use your own manual for the real sequence.

First, take the filter out. The blog says "Make sure you remove the water filter as it will soak the descale solution if left in during the descaling process." ⁴

Next, mix the solution. Step one in the blog. "Power on your machine and mix the cleaning agent using the instructions on the pack." Then it runs the solution through each function: the portafilter, the hot water outlet and the steam wand. ⁴

Last comes the rinse. The blog says "After the first round of cleaning solution has run through the machine, run a second round with only water." ⁴ For the Barista Express Impress, Breville's page points to a "How to perform a descale" video, which covers the process up to "a final, clear water rinse." ⁶

Safety while you descale

Breville's support article says "Unplug the machine and allow it to cool before service." ²

Keep the case closed and leave the insides alone. Hot steam and mains power are both in play. If a cycle won't start or finish, check the steps in your manual and contact Breville support.

Finding your manual

Look for the model number on your machine or its box, then search for it in Breville's support center to find the instruction book and any model video.

If you're still choosing a machine, the types of home espresso machine and what to look for are laid out in our guide. If yours has a built-in grinder, see what sets a grinder for espresso apart.