How to clean Cuisinart coffee maker

Cuisinart is a leading manufacturer of home appliances, such as coffee makers. Since there are many different models and types of coffee makers, it is best to always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning your specific unit, especially if it is still under warranty. However, there are instructions that apply to most Cuisinart general cleaning coffee makers.

Before cleaning

Always follow general safety measures before attempting to clean your Cuisinart coffeemaker. Turn it off and unplug it. Let the unit cool down before cleaning and never immerse the base unit in water or any liquid. Most Cuisinart coffee maker models have a light on the front display that has the word “clean” underneath. When this is turned on, it is time to clean this appliance, as there is a build-up of calcium from the water in the water tank. If yours does not have a clean light, clean this appliance periodically according to the specific Cuisinart manual, generally every two months, especially if your home has hard water. If your coffee starts to taste strange, this may be a sign that you need to ditch your coffee from calcium.

General cleaning

Empty the filter and garden coffee and rinse the carafe (coffee maker). Wash and rinse the basket filter, carafe and lid in hot soapy water or clean in the top rack of the dishwasher. It should be done after each use. To clean the base, rest plate, and outside of the coffeemaker, wipe them with a clean, damp cloth. Do not use steel wool, abrasive cleaners, or any other abrasive material.

Descaling

Remove the calcium water deposit from time to time; This will be indicated by a flashing light on the front panel of most models. To do this, fill the water reservoir with 1/3 cup of white vinegar and 2/3 cup of water and press the “clean” button. Once the clean light stays on (not blinking), turn the unit on. Your coffee maker will now clean itself and beep when it’s complete. If your clean light flashes at the end of this cycle, repeat the process. Once the calcium is totally gone, the clean light will turn off. Before making new coffee, run a cold clean water cycle. Again, if your old Cuisinart coffee maker doesn’t have a cleaning and light feature, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for disposing of your calcium unit.