It’s impossible to imagine my morning routine without the moka pot. Of course, the coffee from it cannot be compared to a portafilter espresso, but it is strong and round and goes perfectly with the (admittedly very large amount) of milk I use to “brew” my elixir of life in the morning. And then? Sure, the used coffee grounds go into the flowers (or the organic waste bin or the garden)* and all other parts go into… NO, not the dishwasher. Because the aluminum Bialetti won’t survive that.
foto: barbara beiertz
It’s impossible to imagine my morning routine without the moka pot. Of course, the coffee from it cannot be compared to a portafilter espresso, but it is strong and round and goes perfectly with the (admittedly very large amount) of milk I use to “brew” my elixir of life in the morning. And then? Sure, the used coffee grounds go into the flowers (or the organic waste bin or the garden)* and all other parts go into… NO, not the dishwasher. Because the aluminum Bialetti won’t survive that.
foto: barbara beiertz
Aluminum – and everything we have compiled here – refers to the aluminum pot. We’ll come to the stainless-steel version later. Aluminum is both light and robust. But: Its surface is sensitive to scratches. And aluminum reacts with oxygen (from the air). This means, that the surface becomes discolored, which could also be described as a natural corrosion layer. This effect is intensified by detergent and water in the machine, the surface of the stove jug becomes dull and looks pretty nasty.
Aluminum is an extremely light yet robust material. This is why it is often used for (inexpensive) kitchen utensils, baking trays, and even drinking bottles. It tolerates heat just as well as cold. However: Aluminum reacts with oxygen when exposed to air – the surface discolors and quickly becomes dirty.
This effect is particularly noticeable on aluminum parts that have not been further processed or coated with a protective layer. Basically, this is a protective function of the material, forming a natural corrosion protection. This reaction is partially utilized during further processing: In a process known as anodizing, the natural protective layer is further reinforced, resulting in a satin-silver color. Alternatively, aluminum parts are often powder-coated or brushed, meaning the surface is slightly roughened.
If the material is tarnished or otherwise soiled, it makes sense to clean aluminum in the dishwasher. Unfortunately, however, water and detergent intensify the effect on aluminum: The material oxidizes in the dishwasher, becoming dull and unsightly. So, it’s better to wash it by hand, but please don’t use coarse sponges, not even loofahs or sea cucumbers or anything similar. Because, you know, the surface… And then not with dishwashing liquid, but simply with clear water. Dry well (and preferably don’t screw it back together immediately). That’s it. Right?
Coffee residues, oils and limescale in the Bialetti should be removed regularly, otherwise the coffee will eventually become (exactly) “rancid”. Soda is NOT a secret weapon here, it attacks the surface too much. What works really well, however, is vinegar water: Simply pour diluted vinegar (but not the good balsamic vinegar) into the water tank of the pot, screw it together and heat on the stove as usual. Caution: Make sure you leave the lid closed, otherwise you could get scalded! Then give it another run through with clear water. Done.
Some recommend citric acid as an alternative to vinegar. We are a little cautious about this. As already described in the first part of our short series on cleaning coffee machines, citric acid turns into calcium citrate when heated (140°+) in combination with limescale, an unpleasantly sticky mass that is extremely difficult to get rid of. So, if you want to use citric acid for descaling, only use cold, lukewarm water at most. This means: Do not boil it in the moka pot.
And if you have a stainless-steel moka pot? Then everything is completely different. Then you can put it in the dishwasher. However, it is advisable to remove the sealing ring first, otherwise it might get leaky. Yes, classic dishwashing liquid is also “allowed”. And descaling (if necessary, at all) can also be done with vinegar water.
This was the last part of our mini-series on cleaning coffee machines. We have largely excluded fully automatic machines, as they have their own cleaning agents and procedures that vary from manufacturer to manufacturer. So please be sure to check the instructions for use (yes, really…). It goes without saying that the milk container, drip tray, and coffee grounds container should be kept consistently clean – mold can form quickly.
If you have any other tips and suggestions, please write to us in the comments. We’ll be happy to add them to our list.
*For anyone who wants to know what you can do with used coffee grounds apart from throwing them in the organic waste bin: Here are a few blog posts that show what you can make from the precious coffee grounds: “Used coffee grounds? Don’t pour them down the drain.”