Whether you spend long days in the office or escape into the great outdoors every weekend, one thing often remains the same – the need for great coffee.

Portable coffee makers are more popular than ever; however, few can produce a truly café-quality espresso. For serious coffee lovers, this 'good enough' simply doesn't cut it.

That's where the Flair 2GO Portable Lever Espresso Maker, available at Amazon, saves the day. This compact manual brewer produces authentic espresso at six to nine bars of pressure, complete with a rich crema, wherever you happen to be. Better yet, this non-toxic coffee maker is BPA plastic-free, too.

Usually, when we think about coffee on the go, the AeroPress we reviewed and loved comes to mind. This handy compact coffee maker is undoubtedly one of the greats, offering all-in-one coffee that is like espresso but not quite the same. The cost of being able to brew anything from French press style to cold brew is the rich, velvety crema essential for an espresso base.

The Flair 2GO, on the other hand, can brew only espresso, but delivers the true experience without the need for the best home espresso machine.

The portable aircraft-grade aluminum frame folds away between uses, making it one of the only foldable lever espresso machines for travel, collapsing down to fit in the palm of your hand. What makes it particularly special, however, is the lever design, which allows users to easily brew between six and nine bar pressure, exactly that needed for incredible espresso with crema, with an integrated pressure gauge to make the perfect shot every time.

While we have not tested the Flair 2GO ourselves, we have had our hands on the larger Flair NEO Flex and loved how simple it was, the small footprint, and the fantastic-tasting coffee it produced. There is no denying that it is a slightly more involved setup than an automatic machine, but if you are a true enthusiast looking for cafe-quality on the go, we are sure it is a learning curve you will appreciate.

What Else to Shop

Whether you're making espresso at home or on the go, I have rounded up the best accessories for small-scale espresso making to suit small kitchens and travel bags.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Just looking for an on-the-go caffeine boost, but are not as sure on the drink itself? We have an expert guide to making coffee taste better when you don't like coffee, just for you.

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I'll admit, I never cared much for coffee. Until a few years ago, I could barely tolerate the smell, so I didn't think an espresso machine would become one of my favourite new kitchen appliances.

Living with a tiny kitchen meant my coffee-loving partner relied on a kettle and a moka pot for years. However, the arrival of the Ninja Luxe Café Mini Espresso Machine finally lets us upgrade without sacrificing precious counter space, and my first impressions have certainly been lasting ones.

This isn't a full review (I'm still putting it through its paces), but after spending a few days with the machine, I think it might be a contender for one of the best espresso machines out there. Here's what has stood out so far.

Having rarely tried to make espresso at home, when it first came to testing a full espresso machine, I was hesitant. They look complicated, and like too much work for the first thing in the morning.

However, the Ninja Luxe™ Café Mini really lives up to its claim of removing the guesswork from making coffee at home, whether you want espresso, drip, or over ice.

The machine comes with everything you need besides beans and water to get started, including a water hardness test kit, which allows you to program your appliance for custom descaling and cleaning warnings.

From there, it weighs your portafilter, decides the best grind size, grinds, and brews for you. The AutoFroth steamer wand even foams milk to the perfect thickness for everything from lattes to cappuccinos without manual intervention. It felt more like playing with a very well-crafted toy than work, so much so that I get excited making coffee for others, and am even tempted to try some myself (although I may be adding some syrups for that).

At 30% smaller than its predecessor, the Ninja Luxe Cafe Pro we reviewed last year, it has found an easy home on my counter. It tucks neatly into a corner of my small kitchen without getting in the way of my everyday organization and prep work. I am usually reluctant to give up space to appliances, given how little of it there is, but this has proven to be a worthy addition.

I simply cannot wait to show it off to friends and guests.

What Else to Shop

From beautifully hand-crafted coffee cups to stunning syrup bottles, these hand-picked coffee station essentials are perfect for elevating your home coffee routine to a café-quality ritual.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Not sure which setting is best for you? We have broken down the key differences between espresso and drip coffee to help you find the best brew.

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A quality coffee machine has become almost as essential to the modern kitchen as a stove or sink. For those of us with limited counter space, however, café-quality coffee often comes at the cost of valuable prep room.

With the new Ninja Luxe Café Mini Plus, however, you can have the best of both worlds. Designed specifically for smaller kitchens, this compact all-in-one system delivers espresso, filter coffee, and silky café-style microfoam without dominating your countertop.

With barista assist, it removes all of the guesswork from your morning brew, too. As someone constantly fighting for precious counter real estate, I cannot wait to get my hands on what looks to be a worthy contender for the best espresso machines.

The best coffee makers have a reputation for being bulky. To reach the top spot, they often offer several functions, from multiple brew methods to built-in grinding and milk frothing − and the extra bells and whistles usually equate to more room.

The Ninja Luxe Café Mini Plus Autofroth Espresso Machine, available at Amazon, delivers all of that without the added mass. Measuring just 10.08" L x 12.17" W x 13.43", it is 30% smaller than its predecessor, the Ninja Luxe Café Pro, which we reviewed and gave five stars last year.

Our expert reviewer Lydia Hayman completely fell in love with the original, saying it was the only machine she ever wanted in her kitchen. One of her only criticisms was that the machine was too big, making this launch possibly the thing to make it truly perfect. I will be sure to put it to the test to find out.

As with the original, the Mini is a highly automated machine, with Barista Assist Technology designed to remove the guesswork from making coffee at home. The system will automatically select the best grind and shot size to give you consistent results, no matter if you are a first-time bean drinker or a trained barista. With single and double-shot espresso baskets, three brew strengths, and three hot water settings, every drink can be tailored to your preferences.

And that's just the coffee. The Luxe Cafe Mini Plus also froths your milk, with a hands-free steam wand calibrated for both dairy and plant-based milks. It's shaping up to be one of the best ways to make espresso at home.

What Else to Shop

At just under $500, the Ninja Luxe Café Mini Plus is also one of the more accessible automatic espresso machines I've come across, offering an impressive range of features without venturing into premium coffee-shop territory.

To help you get the most from your new machine, I’ve rounded up some of my favourite coffee accessories, from storage and organisation essentials to brewing tools that can help take your at-home coffee station to the next level.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Not sure which coffee style is best for you? Check out our guide to espresso versus drip for the best morning brew.

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When I learned that the Aarke Coffee Press was made from 100% stainless steel, I knew that I had to put it to the test. With zero plastic, it is the chic way to make a morning brew.

After trialing it at home, I can safely say it did not disappoint. The simple design brews wonderful coffee, with no gritty grounds escaping the quality filter. Even at the premium price point, it is easily one of the best non-toxic coffee makers on the market today.

Here's how I got on with the Aarke Coffee Press, and why this stylish staple will now be a permanent fixture on my counter.

Product Specifications: Aarke Coffee Press

Design and First Impressions

Having reviewed the Aarke Coffee Grinder previously, I expected good things from the Coffee Press. I am glad to say that the high-quality stainless steel has carried over.

Everything about the Aarke Coffee Press (also available at Williams Sonoma) oozes premium quality. The handle feels fantastic in the hand; it is not overly heavy despite the double-walled vacuum stainless steel body, and the polished exterior looks like something you would find in an upmarket coffee shop.

It arrived simply packaged, with no plastic besides a small piece of tape holding the box closed. Inside, the press was nestled in sturdy recyclable cardboard, with a soft bag to protect it from scratches. The matching coffee scoop was wrapped in paper. It is accompanied by an easy-to-read manual that offers suggestions on dosing and grind size, and specific instructions for use with the Aarke Coffee grinder.

What I love the most about this press is that it is plastic-free, with no BPAs in any part of the lid, filter, or plunger. It is pure, durable, non-reactive stainless steel, making it perfectly non-toxic. With a quick rinse, it was ready to use straight out of the box. It could not be simpler.

Performance

The best French presses make making coffee at home simple. Add your coffee grounds, your water, brew, and plunge before serving.

Aarke advises preheating the carafe before using, so I did just that, adding some hot water to let the steel warm up before dumping, drying, and adding my coffee and water.

I used the engraved measurements on the interior of the carafe to brew a four-cup measure, using the 1:12 coffee-to-water ratio to brew just over a single serving. The coffee was steeped for five minutes with the lid turned so that the spout was blocked off to prevent the coffee from cooling down.

I need not have worried about this, however. When the five minutes were up, I touched the exterior of the carafe and found it completely cool. It was as if I had not used the press at all, and it was still fresh out of the box. I was incredibly impressed at just how efficient the double wall insulation was.

Inside, the coffee was still piping hot. The plunger was easy to press down, although I will note that the stainless steel filter does scrape slightly on the stainless steel walls. This creates a small sound, but it is hardly disturbing.

The poured coffee was perfect. The filter kept all the coffee grounds compact and out of the final brew. The coffee was rich and smooth, and according to my partner, who has used it regularly since it arrived, the taste only improved with subsequent use. Whether that is a result of us fine-tuning our method or the stainless steel seasoning with time, I am not sure. Regardless, it makes it a promising investment.

I wanted to further test Aarke's claim that the press can keep coffee warm for up to three hours. To do so, I filled the carafe up to the six-cup measurement and used a food thermometer from Amazon to take readings every hour for three hours.

I preheated the carafe as before and was pleasantly surprised to find that the claim was fairly accurate. After three hours, the water had dropped by 55°F, with the temperature after three hours a comfortable 156°F. We don't generally recommend steeping French press coffee for this long, as you risk over-extraction, but it is nice to know that you are not at risk of a cold brew if you steep a little longer than the suggested five minutes.

Throughout the process, the exterior of the press stayed perfectly cool to the touch. The insulation is next to none.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Cleaning a French press always comes with the mildly irritating task of scooping the compacted grounds from the base, but overall, the Aarke is easy to clean.

Because of the large capacity, I found it easiest to use a wooden mixing spoon to reach the base and fish out the coffee to put into my compost. Beyond that the carafe was easy to rinse out. The filter separates with a small screw bolt at the base, making it easy to rinse between the layers and remove any lingering coffee.

All of the parts are dishwasher safe, too, but hand washing is simple enough. Just avoid harsh abrasives to prevent cosmetic scratches. I will note that, being stainless steel, the polished exterior is very prone to water marks if left to air dry, so I suggest towel drying to maintain the shine.

Despite the 34 oz capacity, the press is easy to store in a cabinet or on a shelf and looks good enough to be left on display as part of your coffee station.

How the Aarke Coffee Press Compares

Having used cheap own-brand glass French presses before, the difference is as clear as night and day. You might not be able to watch your coffee brew with the Aarke Stainless Steel Coffee Press; however, the double-wall insulation and plastic-free construction make it a far more elevated brewing experience, without the fear of contaminants.

The top premium contender for the Aarke is the Espro P7 French Press, which has retained its position as the best stainless steel coffee maker for the last few years. Another 32 oz brewer, the Espro is around $5 cheaper on average (at the time of writing). The main difference is in the filter. The Aarke uses a very typical filter comprised of a stainless steel spiral plate, mesh filter, and a cross plate. The Espro uses a patented double wire mesh filter, which is made using BPA-free plastic. As it is BPA-free, it is non-toxic; however, for those who are very particular about 'plastic-free' brews, the Aarke takes the cake.

They both deliver delicious, rich, grit-free coffee with double-wall insulation that keeps coffee warm for hours. Which you choose will come down to your particulars about plastic, BPA-free or not.

Should You Buy the Aarke Coffee Press?

I would absolutely recommend the Aarke Coffee Press to anyone who enjoys French press-style coffee. It is simple to use with premium construction and materials that promise plastic-free brewing.

While the Aarke does come in at a more premium price point ($150 at the time of writing), the quality justifies the investment. The vacuum insulation promises hot coffee without the risk of burns, and the easy-to-hold handle and balanced carafe make for easy pouring. We have noticed a steady improvement in flavour with each use, too, which promises great things for dedicated users. I think it is worth the price, and will be a fantastic find should it drop into any sales.

What Else to Shop

To help you detoxify your coffee routine and create the perfect home café, I’ve curated a selection of my favourite accessories, from non-toxic brewing essentials to smart organization upgrades that make every cup feel a little more special.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

To help start your more mindful routine, consider selecting the best ethical coffee beans next.

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SMEG has revealed its Color of the Year for 2026, and it is a stark departure from the usually vivid retro palette the brand is known for.

Moonlight, a rich earth tone, could be mistaken for a safe play. However, the restorative hue, inspired by the 'understated elegance' of natural light, is designed to complement the existing surfaces in your kitchen, rather than distract.

Available in one of the best drip coffee makers, an electric kettle, and a two-slice toaster, the new color just works, no matter your current kitchen scheme. But why?

Moonlight is SMEG's Color of the Year 2026

Looking back at every Color of the Year we know so far, another neutral shade is perhaps not all that surprising. Sherwin-Williams announced Universal Khaki, Dutch Boy chose Melodious Ivory, and we saw a similar story in the controversial Pantone Color of the Year, Cloud Dancer.

Moonlight is a warm, earthy neutral, designed with sophistication in mind. The warmer undertones add depth, steering kitchens away from being too stark or unwelcoming, lending credence to cozy kitchens designed for hosting or comfort cooking.

But why, when the quiet luxury trend seems to be phasing out of both interiors and fashion, have so many institutions settled on understated shades? For SMEG, a famously nostalgic kitchenware brand, it is about creating appliances that 'gently accompany surfaces rather than distract.'

Karen Olle, Marketing Director at SMEG USA, shared in the release, 'We're seeing a real shift in design as homeowners move away from cool greys and toward the warmth of earthy neutrals like beige and ivory. With Moonlight, we wanted to capture that sense of calm in a very tangible way, creating a kitchen that feels organic, grounded, and restorative.'

When choosing the best kitchen appliances, the timeless matte neutral is perfect, blending seamlessly into any scheme, from maximalist kitchens to the 'New Neutral' kitchens rising in popularity.

Rather than draw the eye as a centerpiece, the new SMEG offerings integrate seamlessly into the existing space, as discreet appliances that minimize visual clutter in a kitchen without becoming boring.

They are still a statement, albeit a more considered one. As they mix elegance with quality construction, they are a definitively timeless investment for any kitchen ideas.

What to Shop

For those of us who are irrevocably drawn to comforting, warm-toned neutrals, this shade feels like a natural fit. I have rounded up six picks – both from SMEG itself and a few color-matched accessories – to help you integrate the Moonlight hue across your kitchen.

All prices correct at time of publication.

If you are enamoured by the natural aesthetic, consider these neutral kitchen ideas to balance warmth and timelessness without veering into bland.

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We all seem to be on the hunt for the perfect brewer – a coffee machine that can make a range of excellent drinks, handle beans and milk with ease, and do it all without taking over the entire kitchen counter.

Luckily, the latest espresso machines from KitchenAid appear to be up to the task. Around 25% smaller than previous models, the new KitchenAid KF2 Fully Automatic Espresso Machine combines a built-in conical burr grinder with an integrated milk steaming wand, making it your personal barista at home.

It is already shaping up to be a contender for the best espresso machines – especially thanks to the added cold brew functionality. Here’s everything you need to know.

We’ve always been fans of the KitchenAid coffee machines, particularly the KF range. The KF6, for example, earned an impressive 4.5/5 stars in our expert review by Lydia Hayman, thanks to its exceptionally quiet operation and chic silhouette that sits seamlessly in any modern kitchen. It also delivered consistently strong, well-balanced espresso, the true litmus test for any machine in this category.

The new KF2 variation is simply smaller – offering the same great brewing power on a more compact footprint. It offers six hot and iced recipe options, from rich, bold espresso to refreshing iced coffee, all at the touch of a button. Drinks can also be tailored to taste, too, with a backlit LED display (another upgrade on the previous model) that makes adjusting strength, size, and temperature simple and intuitive.

A built-in burr grinder automatically adapts to different beans and roast profiles, helping ensure a consistently well-rounded extraction without the need for barista-level training.

It has certainly earned its spot on the busiest kitchen counters, and I can't wait to put it to the test.

What Else to Shop

To help you make the best coffee at home, I’ve rounded up a selection of coffee station essentials designed to elevate both your brewing routine and your countertop aesthetic.

All prices correct at time of publication.

With your new automated in-house barista on the way, check out some of the expert coffee bar organization ideas to maintain order.

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For anyone who enjoys manual-brew coffee or loose-leaf tea at home, an electric kettle is essential. However, kettles made with plastic components have raised growing concerns, with studies warning these may release micro- and nanoplastics into the water you boil and drink.

A 2025 study published in npj Emerging Contaminants found that, while the evidence is not yet conclusive, regular use of plastic kettles may contribute to the ingestion of microscopic plastic particles. As concerns rise about the potential health effects of plastics and so-called 'forever chemicals,' it is not a risk worth taking for something as simple as your morning brew.

The solution? Switch to a non-toxic coffee maker made without plastic in the water path. One example is the fully stainless steel, premium Aarke kettle, pictured above. Here’s why making the change matters.

Why Plastic Kettles Could be Toxic

Concerns are increasingly being raised about whether heat and repeated use of plastic appliances may contribute to the release of micro- and nanoplastics into water.

Many lower-cost electric kettles still incorporate plastics in key components, often using materials such as polypropylene (PP), ABS, or polycarbonate blends, depending on the design. When these materials are repeatedly heated when making coffee at home, there is potential for polymer degradation and additive leaching, introducing microscopic plastic particles into the water.

While early studies are still not entirely sure of the long-term effects of microplastics on the body, it is generally considered good practice to reduce exposure where possible, working on the 'better safe than sorry' principle.

Other studies support this, adds Dr. Joseph Mercola, Board-Certified Family Physician. In late 2020, a Trinity College Dublin Study reported that polypropylene products, with kettles tested along with infant bottles and lunch boxes, released microplastics. The release of polypropylene rose from 0.6 million to 55 million particles per liter as water temperature rose from 25 to 95 degrees Celsius [77-203°F]. Since a kettle’s purpose is to heat water close to that range, day after day, I would not choose plastic as your main kettle material.'

While the 2025 study did suggest that the level of contaminants released by certain electric kettles may decrease with repeated use, trace levels can persist even after extended boiling cycles. As Dr Mercola reports, 'In a 100-day plastic-kettle study, minerals in real tap water formed protective films inside kettles; after 40 days, ions in water cut microplastic release by more than 89% compared with deionized-water controls. Still, that finding should not be read as a green light for plastic kettles.'

In other words, simply 'boiling out' plastics is not a reliable way to eliminate microplastics, even if the volume of harmful chemicals may reduce over time.

Why Stainless Steel Kettles are the Answer

Stainless steel, on the other hand, is chemically inert, meaning that it does not react or leach potentially harmful chemicals into food or water. This has the bonus of not impacting the flavor, too. That is why it makes some of the best non-toxic cookware.

Beyond the safety argument, they are more durable and are corrosion-resistant, meaning that they are a smarter financial investment, too.

When brewing, stainless steel kettles also offer superior heat retention, keeping your water warmer for longer for repeated brews. This is the case for both stainless steel electric kettles, such as the SMEG Electric Kettle from Williams Sonoma, or the Willow Kitchen Gooseneck Kettle available at Macy's, and stovetop kettles, such as the KitchenAid Stainless Steel Whistling Induction Kettle, from Macy's.

Dr. Mercola agrees, adding, 'I prefer a glass or stainless steel kettle. Ceramic-lined options can also be useful if the glaze and interior materials are clearly disclosed. For a home kitchen, the goal is simple: heat water in glass, stainless steel, or ceramic, then pour it into a ceramic or glass mug. I would also avoid plastic travel mugs for hot tea or coffee, since the same basic principle applies: Heat and plastic are a poor pair.'

What to Shop

Plastics and 'forever chemicals' can creep into many parts of your coffee routine. To help reduce that risk, I’ve sourced six coffee bar essentials made without BPA plastics or other potentially harmful materials.

All prices correct at time of publication.

Meet the Expert

It’s not just health considerations worth thinking about when revamping your coffee routine. Choosing ethically sourced beans matters too. Our guide to selecting ethical coffee can help you build a more environmentally conscious setup.

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The Casabrews ULTRA Espresso Machine is a popular, sleek espresso machine with customization settings that even espresso aficionados would appreciate.

After garnering some popularity on social media, I enlisted the expertise of a professional barista to find out if the Casabrews ULTRA lived up to its reputation and how it compares to more high-end models. Spoiler: It brews rich, delicious, and full-bodied coffee with ease.

And thanks to its stylish stainless steel design, this is one of the best espresso machines for high-quality yet inexpensive espresso at home.

My One-Minute Summary

The Casabrews ULTRA Espresso Machine brews truly delicious coffee to a standard similar to that of professional machines. You can adjust pour time and temperature, although I found that the pour times we set weren't always saved accurately.

Its functionality is easy to understand for those new to espresso making at home – with four buttons for choosing cup size, hot water, steam, and adjusting the brew – and the steam wand does a great job at turning milk silky and thick.

For more customization options, I recommend the Breville Barista Pro, or if you're short on space, the KitchenAid Espresso Machine is a stylish, smaller alternative.

Casabrews ULTRA Espresso Machine: Specifications

Casabrews ULTRA Espresso Machine: Design

The Casabrews ULTRA looks like a compact version of the professional espresso machines you find in coffee shops. It's made almost entirely of stainless steel, and takes about 2-3 minutes to warm up.

Even if you've had no experience making espresso at home, the operation is straightforward. All the parts move and attach intuitively. The drip tray slides out easily with minimal spillage, and the portafilter slots in with a satisfyingly weighty feel to it – and there’s a stopping point, so it’s easy to know when it’s fully inserted.

The tamper feels a little cheap compared to the more premium materials used for the rest of the machine. Its plastic is BPA-free and food-safe, but feels a touch too lightweight for tamping. When you're pressing grounds into the portafilter, you want them to be evenly distributed, and if you’re pressing yourself – as opposed to using a heavier weight – there’s more room for error. During testing, my barista partner and I found that there were occasionally loose grounds on top after pulling the tamper away.

You can, however, easily make a good-quality espresso, and if you are more of a coffee aficionado, you can adjust each shot to precisely how you prefer.

That said, after brewing, the coffee grounds came out as a solid puck, a good sign that the tamper has done its job (and paired with the right pour time).

There are four buttons for the different modes: One-cup, two-cup, hot water, and steam.

To change pour time, hold the two-cup button down for five seconds to be able to change the settings (only the power and two -cup button lights will be lit). Then, press the two-cup to start pouring, then again to stop, and it will show you the pour time.

It is said to remember this for next time, to tailor the brew to your beans without having to adjust the settings every time, but strangely, it did not remember exactly to the recorded time during my testing.

When setting the time to 27 seconds, the next coffee was poured for 26. When set at 24 seconds, the next was 23.5. As it isn't quite accurate, I would recommend setting your pour time a little higher than needed.

A nice touch is that the top surface of the espresso machine is slightly warm as the water heats up. You find this feature in professional espresso machines, as it allows you to gently warm your mug while brewing the coffee. We found the mug to be ever-so-slightly warmer after 5-10 minutes on top of the machine, upside down.

Casabrews ULTRA Espresso Machine: Performance

The Casabrews ULTRA brewed delicious coffee that tasted almost the same as when brewed from a professional machine, which was impressive for such a small appliance.

During testing, I made espressos, Americanos, lattes, and cappuccinos to find out how the Casabrews ULTRA performed. We used coffee beans that my barista partner regularly tastes at work and is familiar with the flavor profile, to see how similar the pour was from this at-home espresso machine.

For the first espresso, we poured for 23 seconds, and it tasted great, but a little acidic and sour. The crema was present and looked good, but could have been thicker.

We increased the pour to 27.5 seconds, and it was perfect. Indistinguishable from the espressos made from a professional machine.

We brewed Americanos by brewing espresso, then adding hot water, then vice versa. Both ways, it tasted almost as good as when brewed professionally, although a little flat.

It also didn't quite have the same body, but it performed exceptionally well at extracting the flavour, as we could taste all the notes in the coffee. The subtle chocolate, berry, and acidic profiles were all present.

The steam wand takes around 45-50 seconds to properly foam the milk and heat it up, which is a little slow, but the result was a thick, glossy milk that is perfect for flat whites, lattes, and cappuccinos.

It also didn’t do what lots of cheap machines do, which is to just blow bubbles into the milk.

The lattes and cappuccinos that we brewed were delicious, full-bodied, and impressive enough that my partner would happily serve them at work.

Casabrews ULTRA Espresso Machine: Cleaning and Storage

The Casabrews ULTRA is easy to clean. The drip tray comes out, allowing you to clean it thoroughly, and the internal parts can be flushed and descaled. A light will show on the LCD screen when it's time to descale the coffee maker.

To flush the machine, following the manual's clear instructions, I ran hot water for 30 seconds through the steam wand, then stopped it manually. Then, I did the same for the group head, and it stopped automatically after 23 seconds.

Hot water comes out of the steam wand, so if you're making an americano, you'll have to flush out the wand after every time you've submerged it in milk.

At 12.99 x 12.2 x 10.31 inches, the Casabrews ULTRA will need a decent amount of space on the counter, but not too much more than some of the bigger Keurig coffee makers.

It's stainless steel, so it'll easily blend into different kitchen interior styles, and it easily fits under my kitchen cabinets. If you prefer to keep yours out of sight, prepare to lift a somewhat heavy (13.55lbs) and bulky machine in and out of your kitchen storage.

How Does the Casabrews ULTRA Espresso Machine Compare?

At $249.99 at Casabrews, and often discounted to around $180-200, the Casabrews ULTRA Espresso Machine is a modest investment, and a more affordable entry into at-home espresso machines compared to premium models on the market. It's relatively compact too, measuring 10.31 in (W) x 12.2 in (D) x 12.99 in (H).

One such example is the Breville Barista Pro, costing $849.95 at Amazon. It perfectly extracts notes of all coffee types, can adjust temperature, includes a coffee grinder, and has exceptional build quality – but it'll take up more space on your counter.

If you're short on space, the KitchenAid Espresso Machine is a slim, stylish alternative that is similarly easy to use, includes a milk frother, and makes delicious coffee, at $249.99 at KitchenAid. It measures 6.38 x 13.15 x 11.26 inches.

Who Would the Casabrews ULTRA Espresso Machine Suit?

The Casabrews ULTRA Espresso Machine is the ideal entry point for those looking to try their first espresso machine, and coffee aficionados who like to have some control over their brew.

Espresso purists may prefer a more comprehensive machine that can adjust the temperature and includes its own coffee grinder, to keep everything needed for precision and customization in one place, such as the Breville Barista Pro.

Next, see which models top our guide to the best coffee makers after our rigorous testing sessions.

On a quest to brew the perfect cup of joe, your focus may understandably fall on selecting the right roasts, upgrading equipment, and refining technique over time. However, one of the most important variables is often overlooked entirely – the water itself.

Even with the best coffee makers, the mineral composition of your water can have a significant impact on flavour and aroma, and it can vary not only by location but even seasonally. That’s why serious coffee enthusiasts often turn to mineral-enhancing packets such as Third Wave Water, available from Amazon, to help ensure consistency cup after cup.

'The role water quality plays in flavor and aroma is often overlooked,' notes Heather Perry, two-time US Barista Champion and CEO of Klatch Coffee. 'Coffee is, after all, almost completely water.' Here’s what she recommends for achieving the best possible brew, every time.

How Mineral Packets Can Drastically Improve Home Coffee

If, when you make coffee at home, it never quite tastes as it does at the coffee shop, even when using the same beans and the best non-toxic coffee makers, it may be your water to blame.

Heather explains, 'Municipal quality and mineral content can vary wildly depending on the source and geographic location, which affects the finished cup. Worse, it sometimes contains contaminants.

'In high volume cafes, business owners invest heavily in water filtration and treatment to ensure consistency and high quality, especially across multiple locations,' she notes.

Packet mineral treatments offer a fantastic alternative to these industrial systems. When using the best home water filters to treat distilled water (available at Walmart), mineral packets 'add back' key minerals in just the right amounts for the resulting brew.

It is worth noting that for most of the US, water from your faucet is usually safe to drink and safe for use in coffee machines. That being said, a study by the Environmental Working Group found evidence of several pollutants across the country that may affect your coffee, but most importantly, your health. As a result, they have put together an EWG tap water checker for you to check your local zip-code supply.

Switching to treated water, such as distilled or filtered, and adding mineral packets is a great way to be on the safe side when it comes to both your body and your appliances.

It is quick, simple, and contaminant-free. Plus, this method of brewing is a fantastic way to prevent limescale, prolonging its lifespan, preserving taste, and making cleaning a coffee maker more streamlined. What's not to love?

What to Shop

'Third Wave Water is one such product we recommend,' Heather shares. 'Home brewers can add it to distilled or reverse osmosis water to create water that perfectly fits within the Specialty Coffee Association's (SCA) guidelines for improved flavor, ideal for home coffee preparation.'

We’ve selected some of their most popular formulations, along with a few additional accessories, to help you achieve a consistently café-quality brew at home.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Meet the Expert

if you coffee still doesn't taste quite right, brush up on how to choose coffee beans to refine your selection and ensure you are using the correct roast for every brewing method.

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David Beckham has collaborated with Ninja to design a chic new upgrade for one of the brand’s flagship coffee makers.

The former footballer, who has now made a name for himself as a stylish country homemaker (thanks to his green thumb and chicken-keeping skills), has launched a sleek limited-edition Luxe™ Café Pro coffee maker that's chic enough for his counters.

This premium appliance, which combines Ninja’s automated brewing technology with David's fashion-forward aesthetic, means you can now bring high-performing celebrity style straight to the heart of your home.

With so many now embracing artisan home coffee alongside aesthetic kitchen choices, these appliances now have to do more than deliver a great cup. Along with being one of the best espresso machines our in-house professional chef has ever tested, this upgrade will be a centerpiece on your countertop, rather than something you'll have to hide away in your appliance garage.

David Beckham Just Teamed Up With Ninja on a Stylish Coffee Maker

So far as the best coffee makers go, Ninja delivers every time. Having reviewed the original Luxe™ Café Pro, we found barely any faults besides it being large, and the cold brew not being ultra-cold. Otherwise, it performs quickly and quietly, delivering consistently well-extracted espresso, hands-free milk frothing, and the added convenience of a built-in grinder.

The original stainless-steel finish already felt elevated, but the David Beckham redesign takes things a step further, introducing matte black stainless steel and refined gold detailing, alongside ebony wood accents. The result is a countertop appliance that feels as much like an on-trend design object as it does a kitchen essential.

Importantly, every design decision has been made with practicality in mind, ensuring performance hasn’t been sacrificed for aesthetics. In a behind-the-scenes video released by Ninja, Beckham even pushed back on certain finishes, noting, 'I’m all about the details. My issue with that? Fingerprints.'

No fuss, no smudges, just a clean finish that looks as good as it performs.

The machine offers four functions in one: brewing full-bodied espresso, balanced drip coffee, quick cold brew, and offering an independent hot water system.

This is all alongside the hands-free milk steamer and grinder with 25 automated grind settings to take the guesswork out of making good coffee at home. It may be large, but it makes the best use of its real estate, cutting back on the number of appliances you need on your counter.

The David Beckham colorway launch is limited edition, so it won't be around forever, and I predict a sell-out soon.

What Else to Shop

Coffee stations are no longer just practical hubs for a quick morning pick-me-up – they’re increasingly becoming focal points within the kitchen.

To elevate your own coffee corner, I’ve selected six beautifully home essentials to refine both your routine and your countertop.

Even with the perfect appliances and accessories, your coffee corner may look unkempt without the perfect coffee bar organization ideas. Luckily, the experts have shared their top tips for combining pretty with practical.

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As a keen advocate of green cleaning, vinegar is a staple in my home, especially for tackling tough jobs like descaling.

For years, many of us have relied on this pantry essential to remove limescale from household appliances. However, experts are increasingly warning that it may be doing more harm than good. While vinegar does dissolve mineral buildup, it can also gradually degrade the plastics and rubber components inside your machine.

That’s a risk hardly worth taking with your best non-toxic coffee maker. Here’s what the experts recommend using instead.

Why You Should Avoid Vinegar in Your High-End Coffee Maker

When cleaning a coffee maker, no matter its price point, avoiding toxins should be at the top of everyone's priority list. Harsh chemical cleaners can leave behind residue that alters the taste of your coffee and could sabotage your health.

Cleaning with vinegar has positioned itself as the ideal solution, being food safe and helping to create a non-toxic home by cutting out the risk of dangerous chemicals. While it is a more gentle option than some traditional cleaning solutions, Lucinda Smalley, hard water expert at Hard Water Home, explains that it is still acetic acid, meaning it can be corrosive to certain materials, impacting the integrity of rubber in particular.

Over time, and with repeated use, this will render the coffee maker inefficient, leading to expensive replacements. If you have just invested in one of the high-end, best coffee makers, this is a costly mistake you will want to avoid.

Interestingly, 'From a hard water perspective, it is also not the most effective option,' Lucinda adds. 'I usually recommend citric acid. It’s naturally derived, food-safe, and much better at dissolving buildup without leaving behind any smell. It also rinses cleanly, which makes a big difference for anything you’re drinking from.'

Dennis Godynuk, lead appliance expert at Comfort Appliance Repair in Tennessee, agrees, adding, 'Many commercial cleaners and even descalers have citric acid as their main descaling agent, so it's guaranteed to be safe and efficient.' The Active Coffee Machine Cleaner and Descaler, from Walmart, is a great example of this and is highly rated by shoppers.

It is a simple swap that takes seconds but can save hundreds of dollars in the future.

What to Shop

The same rules apply whether you’re cleaning a French press or refreshing a single-serve coffee machine.

Once the maintenance is taken care of, adding a few well-chosen accessories is the next step in perfecting your coffee setup. Here are some of my favorites for creating a stylish and functional coffee station at home:

Meet the Experts

Vinegar isn't the only solution you should be cautious of. There are several other chemicals you should avoid in your coffee maker to protect your appliance and your health, too.

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It's easy to see that the Aarke Coffee Grinder, with its flat burr system and seriously chic stainless steel design, makes a striking addition to any coffee lover’s kitchen. But at $400, it’s a serious investment.

Though it's undeniable that there’s something intensely satisfying about grinding your own coffee beans for a fresh brew, and even more so when your grinder looks the part like this one does.

After testing it, I can confirm it is a strong contender for a place among our best coffee grinders, but that eye-watering price doesn’t guarantee perfection. Here’s what I found on test – and whether it’s truly worth the splurge.

What I Experienced During My Aarke Coffee Grinder Review

Specifications: Aarke Coffee Grinder

First Impressions: Aarke Coffee Grinder

There is no denying that the Aarke Coffee Grinder looks fantastic out of the box. It's a much larger unit than I was expecting, standing at 16 inches tall; however, the solid stainless steel construction from base to grind cup to hopper is a chic choice (albeit prone to fingerprint smudges) that makes up for the counter space it demands.

Just holding the box, I could tell it was a premium product. It's not heavy, but it isn't the lightest either. The weight speaks to its quality without being cumbersome.

The packaging similarly attests to the care clearly put into the design. The main body of the packaging is 100% recyclable cardboard, which I appreciate, as it makes it easier to be sustainable at home.

The bags that protect each stainless steel component, while not recyclable, are made from fabric rather than plastic; however, they not only prevent scratches but also make the whole unboxing experience feel that little bit more luxurious. The only plastic was a single twist tie used to secure the unit's cable in transit.

Setting up the Aarke Coffee Grinder was simple, and quite self-explanatory even without the detailed instructions (which are accompanied by a handy labelled illustration for reference).

After rinsing out the hopper, glass lid, and catch cup with water and drying them thoroughly, the cup sat beneath the spout, and the hopper was pushed into the top of the unit and twisted to secure into place. There are some plastic components at the base of the hopper, but Aarke promises that this is BPA-free, making the unit non-toxic and a perfect accompaniment to your non-toxic coffee maker.

I particularly loved that the glass lid had a printed diagram with the recommended grind settings for each brewing method, including moka pot, Aeropress, pour over, siphon, filter brewing, Chemex, French press, and cold brew. It is important to note that Aarke stresses that the flat burr grinder is not suitable for espresso, so you will need a separate grinder if you are partial to this brew.

With everything set up, I could plug in the grinder and get to work.

What It's Like To Use: Aarke Coffee Grinder

Using the Aarke Coffee Grinder looked intimidating at first. There are over 60 grind settings, and the ability to further fine-tune those settings from there. This is a lot of choice, and makes it perfect for the serious coffee aficionado, but might be overwhelming to the average everyday drinker.

The grinder is set for both single dosing, with a manual mode which will grind the beans until you either manually stop the process or the hopper empties, and cup mode, allowing you to grind between two and 10 cups (for Aarke, one cup is 125 milliliters, or 4.2 ounces) worth. For my tests, I ground the same beans for two-cups worth on three settings, for an even comparison.

To adjust the general grind, you turn the large dial at the top of the machine. This was easy enough with two hands. You then have the option to fine-tune the grind according to your strength preference using a smaller dial towards the base of the machine. This will tell the grinder to dose more or less coffee within a given cup setting. For my tests, I left this on the standard dose.

When operating, the grinder is fairly loud, running at around 80-90 decibels, but the grind time is quick enough that it is not bothersome. It is also worth noting that it is not entirely mess-free. Thanks to the open chute and separate catch cup, some ground dust did fly around, landing on the counter around the appliance. It was minimal, but wastage is wastage, and it is something else to clean up later.

Test 1: Fine Grind

For my tests, I picked the midpoints of each grind range. For fine moka pot grounds, Aarke recommends a range of 10-20, so I settled on setting 15 for my first grind.

Having half-filled the hopper and set the cup size to two, the grounds spat out in seconds. They were delightfully fine and even, with a soft brown sugar-like texture, making them ideal for moka pots, such as the Bialetti Venus Coffee Maker I reviewed and loved a few weeks ago.

I ran the medium and coarse grinds next, but I did return to the fine setting again later. I deliberately went against the Aarke instructions to move from coarse grinding to fine grinding incrementally to clear out coarser grounds and prevent clogging, but as I was trying to deliberately prompt clogging to answer some online reports of jams, I didn't have success.

I couldn't get the machine to clog for me, but I did notice that with the same beans on the same cup and grind setting as my first run, I received 5g more grounds than the first test. This, I believe, may have come down to retention in the device – supported by the fact that while most of the grinds were nice and soft, there were a few coarser chunks mixed in.

Again, I did go against the advice for this test, and it is something Aarke warns against, but it is worth noting if you like to change your brewing method and don't want to spend a few minutes (and some potentially wasted beans) on working down five points at a time from a French press grind to a moka pot grind.

Test 2: Medium Grind

My next test was a medium grind, more suited to sifon or filter brewing. For this, I picked setting 35 out of 60, and let the machine run for two cups worth once again. It worked just as quickly, and with no real noticeable difference in noise.

There was a noticeable difference in grind texture between the medium and fine grinds, both visually and tangibly. It was more akin to sea salt and was once again very uniform.

Test 3: Course Grind

To test the coarse grind, I moved up to setting 50, which Aarke says is perfect for Chemex pour over that we have reviewed, French press, and Cold brew. Again, the grinder worked very quickly.

There was a stark difference between the medium and coarse grind here, with the results very rough and almost gritty, but uniformly so. Overall, three of the main grind types provided vastly different results, performing as expected for a grinder that costs $400.

Cleaning and Maintenance: Aarke Coffee Grinder

Maintaining the Aarke Coffee Grinder is relatively straightforward, and it comes with most of the tools you need.

The hopper, glass lid, and catch cup can be removed and washed by hand using warm water and a soft sponge. Be sure to dry each thoroughly before using again, and don't drop the lid, or you risk shattering it. The outside of the appliance can then be buffed clean using the black cloth provided.

Aarke recommends cleaning the burrs every three months. Accessing them is easy enough. Once the empty hopper has been removed, you untwist the top until it comes loose in your hand. This takes more twisting than you think, but persevere. Inside the device is a compartment that houses the burr brush, which I love, as it means I will not lose it in my drawers.

When brushing, I did find that some static meant that the grounds hopped from one surface to the other, making this process mildly irritating. Beyond this, a larger brush is ideal for brushing out the spout, which retains some grinds in the process.

You will also need to wipe down the counter where you use your grinder, as I mentioned above, some grounds do fly out of the chute and dust your kitchen.

Who the Aarke Coffee Grinder Would Suit

The Aarke Coffee Grinder is a fantastic investment for serious coffee drinkers who regularly indulge in a range of brewing methods when making coffee at home and need a device that will reliably provide the type of grind they need. The adjustable grind and strength settings make it perfect for the aficionado who knows exactly what they want from their coffee and doesn't want to settle for less.

It is also perfect for people who have the Aarke drip coffee maker (available at Amazon), which we reviewed last year, as the two can be connected into one complete system using a plug-in cord. We have not tested this feature ourselves, but I can see how it would be useful for simplifying routines.

As Aarke says themselves, this is not the grinder for espresso drinkers. For that, we suggest the Breville Smart Grinder Pro, from Amazon, which also allows you to grind straight into a portafilter.

What Do People Say Online?

The Aarke Coffee Grinder has largely positive reviews, sitting at 4.5 stars across most outlets, including Aarke's own store page. One common complaint, however, is clogging and jamming. This was not something I was able to replicate despite stressing the machine, but it is a common complaint for any flat burr coffee grinder. While they offer a more uniform grind, the horizontal design can allow grounds to build up, leading to jams.

The flat burr design also makes it less forgiving than conical burrs, with some complaints about needing some trial-and-error to find the perfect grind settings for your perfect brew. This might make it less suited to a beginner.

Overall, however, the response is largely positive, especially from those who have paired it with the matching drip coffee maker. It looks great, has fantastic adjustability, and, once you get the hang of it, is surprisingly simple to use.

My Verdict

All in all, if you have the budget, I would recommend the Aarke Coffee Grinder to experienced coffee drinkers who want to have fine-tuned coffee grinding at their fingertips.

It takes a little getting used to, as does any luxury appliance, but it can deliver great results when given the time, especially alongside the matching coffee maker.

That being said, the grinding device is $400, with the machine costing a further $400 on top of that (at the time of this review). It's an eye-watering price. The design is stunning, however, so it really will come down to how much you value non-espresso coffee and the overall aesthetics of your kitchen.

What to Shop

Whether you’ve decided to take the plunge and invest in the grinder or simply want a machine to match, these are the tools and accessories I recommend to help you get the very best from the Aarke flat burr coffee grinder.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Looking to cut down on coffee shop spending while still enjoying café-quality brews at home? Our guide to making coffee at home will help you perfect every cup, no barista required.

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Having written about non-toxic cleaning practices for over three years, I firmly believe that whenever possible, you should stick to 100% natural products.

This is especially important when cleaning a coffee maker. With boiling water rushing through its pipes, any lingering chemicals can easily end up in your morning cup.

To protect both your health and your best non-toxic coffee maker, I consulted toxicologists to identify the harmful chemicals to avoid during maintenance, and the safer alternatives to reach for the next time that descaling light starts blinking.

Why You Should Use Caution When Maintaining Your Coffee Maker

No matter if you are cleaning a drip coffee maker, the best espresso machine, or sanitizing a French press, you should always avoid harsh household chemicals from your everyday cleaning cabinet.

It is also worth noting that just because a product is marketed as compatible with your appliance's make and model doesn't always mean it is good for your health, or the quality of your brew when making coffee at home.

As with understanding non-toxic cookware labels, it is important to review the ingredient list for your descaling products to avoid potentially harmful mixtures that could also damage your appliance.

Michael Cramer, founder and product developer at Lardera Coffee, explains, 'Strong acids such as sulfamic, hydrochloric, and phosphoric are often found in commercial or industrial descalers because they effectively dissolve mineral buildup, but they can also be corrosive to internal metal and rubber parts if used frequently or at high concentrations. These acids also require thorough rinsing, as residue will adversely affect the taste of the coffee.'

The Cleaning Chemicals to Avoid in Your Coffee Maker

According to Onome Warfield, co-founder at General Warfeild's Coffee, there are three potentially harmful chemicals that you need to look out for:

• Sulfamic acid: Often found in coffee and espresso machine cleaners, sulfamic acid is also common in toilet bowl cleaners, hard water removers, tub and tile cleaners, sink sprays, and other bathroom products. Clearly, we wouldn’t want to ingest these, so sulfamic acid should never be used for descaling or cleaning anything food-related. According to official material safety data sheets, can irritate the gastrointestinal tract and corrode rubber seals or other internal components. This is a firm no for any appliance that produces your food or drinks.
• Hydrochloric acid: This highly corrosive chemical is far too dangerous for use in home brewing machines. Even tiny residues that aren’t fully flushed can pose serious health risks, according to the EPA. Its extreme acidity makes it completely unsuitable for any food-related use. Another clear no.
• Any harsh synthetic detergents/soaps (surfactants): Detergents and synthetic soaps are not designed for coffee equipment. Residue can be difficult to remove and can affect both your health and the flavor of your coffee, because soap-flavored coffee frankly sounds unpleasant. Like the other chemicals listed, this is a full-stop hard no.

The Cleaning Products to Use Instead

When looking for non-toxic cleaning products for your coffee maker, Onome stresses that you select specific and designated food-safe descalers with biodegradable formulations meant for coffee equipment.

'These are perhaps the best due to their low toxicity, effectiveness, ease of use, and their ability to gently descale coffee equipment, etc. Additionally, they usually don't leave stubborn residue, odor, or bad or "off" tastes. Simply follow the product's instructions and use as directed,' she advises.

• Citric acid-based descalers: When shopping for non-toxic products formulated specifically for descaling, citric acid cleansers are my first choice. They are generally gentle, food-safe, and widely recommended when used exactly as directed. The Active Coffee Machine Cleaner and Descaler Solution from Walmart is a good option for this, as it is made up of water and citric acid.
• Lactic acid-based descalers: These are another good choice when used exactly as directed. They are generally low in toxicity, very effective, and won't damage coffee machines and equipment when used appropriately. We suggest New England Stories Descaling Solution, from Amazon, which is formulated with 100% plant-based lactic acid.

It is worth discussing cleaning with vinegar here, as it is non-toxic and generally encouraged for use in descaling applications. That being said, Onome advises against it.

'Believe it or not, and contrary to some guides, we do not recommend using vinegar. While it's not dangerous like the other chemicals mentioned, it can damage rubber seals and other essential parts over time, plus it can be difficult to fully rinse without leaving the classic vinegar odor, affecting the taste of coffee if there's any residue left at all.'

For this reason, distilled white vinegar, available at Walmart, can be used sparingly, and when you are stuck without other safe alternatives, it is best to skip where you can.

FAQs

Why does my coffee maker taste bad after cleaning?

Your coffee machine might have a strange flavor after descaling because the product is still stuck in the inner pipework. No matter what you use to clean your appliance, it is always best practice to flush the machine out before you brew your next coffee.

Onome recommends running two to three full cycles with plain filtered water to remove buildup and residue. Where you can, it is also preferable that you disassemble any parts you can to allow the machine to air dry, limiting the risk of mold and bacteria.

Meet the Experts

With your cleaning routine perfected, next, pick up some of our coffee bar essentials to take your home brew to the next level.

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A good spring clean and declutter is a must for every kitchen, but you shouldn't stop at your pantry.

One appliance expert is urging you to check for one potentially toxic addition in your kitchen, and replace it with a lower-toxicity item in 2026 – your coffee maker.

This is what you need to check for on this appliance, and the best non-toxic coffee makers to consider in its place for a healthier morning routine.

Why You Need To Swap Your Toxic Coffee Maker This Spring

When creating a non-toxic home, most of us consider the best non-toxic cookware and the best non-toxic air fryers first, leaving our old, reliable coffee makers out of the picture.

However, according to Amy Chernoff, appliance expert at AJ Madison, plastic-based coffee makers are silent health risks. 'These machines repeatedly heat water through plastic reservoirs and tubing, which can leach microplastics and chemical residues into a drink many people consume daily. Because of this constant exposure, even small amounts can add up over time.'

Studies support this, too. Snekkevik et al. wrote in one 2024 paper that, 'Mechanical, physical, and chemical processes are the predominant factors driving the generation of micro- and nanoplastics from plastic materials during food preparation,' including coffee makers, 'with extended use and wear increasing the likelihood of malformations, cracking, and oxidation of the plastic.'

As such, there has never been a better time to switch out your old appliances and those made with BPA plastics. You can check the composition of your existing appliance by looking up the make and model online.

We are not suggesting you ditch the best coffee makers entirely, however. They are, after all, one of the best ways to organize a morning routine for efficiency. Instead, Amy urges, 'In 2026, upgrading to stainless steel or glass-based brewers is one of the simplest ways to reduce everyday kitchen toxicity.'

When picking non-toxic appliances, such as a new coffee maker, you'll want to consider how you like to brew your coffee first. If you like an automatic machine that runs in the background while you get on with other tasks, our pick is the Aarke Drip Coffee Maker, available on Amazon.

While on the more 'investment' side of the price scale, its large capacity makes it ideal for bigger, busier households, while its premium design means it both looks good and is built to last.

If you don't mind a more hands-on approach to your coffee, or you need to keep kitchen counters clear, the Aeropress Premium, from Williams Sonoma, is made of high-quality borosilicate glass, with a stainless steel filter. It makes enough coffee for one each brew, too, making it perfect for smaller households.

What to Shop

We have tried and tested our fair share of glass and stainless steel coffee makers in the past. These six are some of our top favorites to help you enjoy your morning coffee from a non-toxic appliance.

It isn't just your appliances that need addressing when looking to curate a healthier kitchen. Consider these six simple kitchen switches to banish microplastics targeting your food storage and cleaning supplies, too.

Until I tested the Bialetti Venus coffee maker, I thought that café-quality espresso was unachievable in my tiny kitchen, as I have no space for a big fancy machine.

Previously, I made do with instant coffee for my partner and guests (a smell I truly despise), as I was too lazy to clean out a French press.

It was safe to say that, for my first experience with a Moka pot, testing the Bialetti Venus 6-Cup coffee maker, available at Amazon, I was expecting many of the same frustrations.

However, I was met with an almost meditative experience that I now genuinely look forward to. I have been converted to the slower way to brew seriously smooth java, and won't be looking back from this non-toxic coffee maker.

My Experience With the Bialetti Venus Coffee Maker

My First Impressions of the Bialetti Venus Coffee Maker

I am a sucker for well-designed packaging that limits waste and plastic, so I was thrilled when I opened the box to find that the Bialetti Venus coffee makercame wrapped only in branded tissue paper, and everything was 100% recyclable. The only thing in the way of plastic was the tape holding the box closed. This made disposal simple.

The coffee maker felt lighter than I anticipated, but not cheap. The 18/10 stainless steel body was beautifully polished, and the ergonomic heat-resistant plastic handle felt sturdy and easy to hold. The lid works on a hinge system, and the raised flap at the back was easy to keep in place while holding the handle securely for a controlled pour. It didn't feel awkward or like it would be easy to slip and spill coffee later.

The instruction pamphlet was tucked inside the pot, and I was impressed to see that it features 17 languages, as well as diagrams to illustrate key points, making it very easy to interpret. Although huge, the thinner paper made it easy to fold down to see what I needed, so it didn't take over the counter as I worked.

I tested the pure stainless steel six-cup model, and it was a nice size for my small kitchen. It is also available in four-cup and 10-cup sizes at Amazon, as well as in a copper-silver finish if you fancy something with a little bit of added flair to live on your countertop.

Specifications: Bialetti Venus Coffee Maker

Performance: Bialetti Venus Coffee Maker

This was my first experience with a Moka pot, so I followed the instructions to the letter. This included running three full brews and pouring them away before brewing up a batch that you can drink. These 'sacrificial' brews are to help remove any metallic flavor left from the manufacturing process for better-tasting coffee.

After unscrewing the base chamber from the top chamber and tipping out the funnel filter, I started by rinsing it out with plain warm water and drying it by hand using a soft kitchentowel. It is worth noting that both the edge of the lid and the funnel inside the top chamber are sharp at the edges, so care is needed when reaching inside to avoid nicking yourself. If you have larger hands, this might be tricky.

In accordance with the instructions, I then filled the lower chamber with cold water to the bottom of the pressure valve. The first diagram in the instructions took all guess work out of this for me, despite the lack of etched markings inside the unit.

The funnel filter then slotted perfectly on top and was filled with the ground coffee. There was no measurement for this in the manual, but a quick online search revealed around 30g was ideal for the six-cup coffee maker, and I ran with that, grinding them finely and tipping them in.

The instructions are very clear that you should not press these grinds down, which would be a mistake when making coffee in this pot, so I shook the base gently to even them out, wiped away any spills from the rim, and screwed the top chamber back on. This took me a few attempts to get the hang of at first, and I had to duck to eye-level to make sure it was not wonky, but this got easier the more I did it.

With the compartment screwed hand-tight, I put the Bialetti Venus on my electric stove top, positioned so that the handle was not over the heating element (the plastic handle is heat safe, but I wanted to make sure it stayed cool enough to touch), and turned it on to a low-medium heat. On my nine-setting electric stove, I chose setting four, and let it brew as I got on with making some lunch.

Having started with cold water as the instructions indicated, on every brew I ran on setting four, the top chamber of the Bialetti Venus started to fill at exactly 13 minutes into the process, demonstrating remarkable consistency. It then took around 20-22 minutes at this same heat to fill the top chamber, at which point I turned off the heat and poured out the coffee. This was indicated by a sudden spluttering sound from the otherwise silent pot.

This felt a little too long for me, so I did some research, with several experienced users on Reddit suggesting starting with hot water in the bottom chamber to speed up the brew. I used hot water from my faucet (not boiling, but the chamber felt warm to the touch when full) and ran the same process again. This time, it took only eight minutes to start filling, and 10 minutes total to fill. This is a far more efficient process that allows for a more flavorful brew and is the approach I will be taking in the future.

The handle was comfortable to hold, having not heated up at all, although the stainless steel was very hot, so due care is needed to avoid touching it. The flap on the lid, designed to hold it in place when pouring to avoid a deluge, was also not cool and comfortable to touch.

After the sacrificial brews, I finally brewed a pot to taste. The process and timings were the same once again, and it brewed a perfect, well-rounded espresso that can easily be used to make any drink style you prefer, be it straight, a shot mixed with steamed milk into a cappuccino, or, as my partner eagerly raced to create, added to quality vanilla ice cream for an affogato at home.

As the main coffee drinker in the household, he immediately declared it 'the best coffee [he's] ever had at home,' and is now very excited to show it off to guests.

Cleaning and Storing the Bialetti Venus Coffee Maker

Cleaning the Bialetti Venus coffee maker is very easy in principle, but it does require some care.

Removing the coffee grounds comes first. When the pot is completely cool, you unscrew the two chambers and remove the funnel filter (I did this by tipping the bottom chamber slightly so that it fell out into my hand). The coffee grounds will be compacted at this point, but the instructions state you should not tap or bang the funnel filter to prevent misshaping the stainless steel, so I opted to use a small metal teaspoon to dislodge them.

This was quick and easy, and I kept the coffee grounds to deodorize my fridge. You can also use coffee grounds to make fertilizer for houseplants, but watch out, as some garden plants hate it.

There was a small amount of water left in the bottom chamber, but the instructions assured me this was normal. The pot is designed this way to prevent it from boiling dry. This was emptied into the sink and amounted to around one teaspoon.

When washing the pot, you should not use soap, but plain warm water to rinse the components and, if needed, a soft, clean cloth or sponge to dry as needed, which is also recommended by Bialetti itself. I found this to be especially important for the silicone gasket on the underside of the upper chamber.

When wiping the interior of the upper chamber, be it when rinsing or hand drying, beware – I found the lid and the inner funnel top to be sharp, and did nick my thumb on the lid edge when towel drying, pictured above. Those with larger hands, such as my partner, might also struggle to reach into the chamber to wipe it out, too.

The instructions do mention that this pot is dishwasher safe, but hand washing is recommended to avoid detergents that can affect the taste of your coffee. This is not something I tested, as I do not own a dishwasher. Regardless, I see it as an unnecessary step for something so simple to clean under a running faucet.

Descaling also seems a simple enough process. I have not yet had to run this on my own Bialetti Venus, but I was very happy to see that the manual suggests descaling with white vinegar, keeping the process free from harsh chemicals.

To do this, you fill the water chamber as usual, but add two teaspoons of either distilled white vinegar, available at Walmart, or food-grade citric acid, available at Amazon, and run a brew without coffee grounds before disposing of the liquid.

Finally, the instructions suggest replacing the silicone gasket on the underside of the upper chamber once per year. You can find replacement gaskets from Bialetti at Amazon.

Storing is also simple. The pot is a convenient size and can fit easily into kitchen cabinets, even in my small kitchen. It's pretty enough when buffed to sit on the counter, too, but the stainless steel may show some smears or smudges.

There are many ways to buff these out and clean stainless steel without harsh chemicals.

What Shoppers Say About the Bialetti Venus Coffee Maker

To learn more about the general customer response, I looked through thousands of Amazon reviews left by verified shoppers, and was pleased to see that the Bialetti Venus coffee maker has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars across over 29,000 reviews.

One recent five-star review left by magheart praised the Bialetti Moka pot for being induction-stove friendly, adding, 'This is awesome!'. They remarked on the 6-cup version making 'perfect' coffee that takes them 'back to the time I lived in Italy.'

Another, Tomasz Kolanek, agreed that it brewed classic quality coffee, writing, 'It’s Bialetti, so everything is clear. Solid build quality, great design, and excellent coffee. Easy to use and delivers rich, authentic espresso every time. A classic moka pot that never disappoints. Highly recommended.'

Of the one-star reviews, one shopper pointed out discoloration at the base of her Bialetti Venus after several months of use. They claim to believe that this is a peeling coating; however, having spent several years as a cleaning editor, the photos look more like severe limescale buildup.

Having tested the pot, I am confident there are no coatings on the stainless steel, so I am willing to go on a limb and say this is a result of using hard water without following the descaling process regularly. I will return to this review after six months of use and update whether this has been an issue.

Other one-star reviews were related to issues with shipping and dispatch on Amazon's part, which are not related to the quality of the Bialetti product itself. All in all, the positive reviews far outweigh the negative and speak for themselves.

Who Would the Bialetti Venus Coffee Maker Suit?

Overall, I think the Bialetti Venus coffee maker, from Amazon, would suit anyone who is looking to make great espresso-style coffee at home without a big machine cluttering up a countertop. It won't froth milk or keep your coffee warm for hours, but the meditative process really adds to a pleasantly slow morning routine, especially for those with electric and induction stoves.

Having tried it, I would certainly purchase one for myself; however, I would personally opt for the smaller four-cup size, as to ensure the correct pressure and the perfect brew, you need to fill the pot every time. The six-cup is just a little too large for my two-person household, but good for when we have guests.

My Verdict

All in all, I found the Bialetti Venus coffee maker easy to use and simple to rinse out. It made great tasting espresso-style coffee that can be used for a whole host of other drinks, and is a fantastic non-toxic option for those of us concerned about PFAS and BPA plastic. It isn't as quick as a kettle or one of the best espresso machines, but that is part of the charm.

It loses half a star only for the fact that it is a little sharp on some edges, and that the instructions say to use cold water to start, when warmer water is a better option for efficiency and flavor. Overall, I would strongly recommend this coffee maker to anyone in the market for a quality Moka pot, or perhaps starting their coffee-making journey at home.

What to Shop

Interested in the Bialetti Venus? These handy accessories can help you make the most of your new Moka pot:

Want to make the most of your coffee? Check out the worst coffee maker mistakes you might be making to improve your home brewing skills.

Testing the stunning Six-Cup Classic CHEMEX Coffee Maker has made me realise that I need at least one great cup of coffee a day to be happy and at my best.

Before it, and despite my full barista training, I have frequently found myself frustrated with leaking water tanks from my Nespresso machine and being caught short without any pods.

So, when I was offered the chance to test the Six Cup Classic CHEMEX®, available at Amazon, I couldn't wait to take things straight back to basics – just great coffee, my kettle, a filter, and a gorgeous glass vessel where the real magic happens.

Now firmly my best pour-over coffee maker, I've been loving the ease and simplicity of the Classic Chemex, not to mention the gorgeous design that has had me leaving it proudly on display.

What I Thought of the Chic Classic CHEMEX Coffee Maker

My First Impressions

First impressions count, and the Six Cup Classic CHEMEX®, available at Amazon, certainly made a good one. The coffee maker arrived in a plain, fully-recyclable cardboard box, with an insert to hold it in place to prevent breakages, as did the CHEMEX Bonded Filters, also available at Amazon. This made it easy to dispose of the box as soon as I opened it.

The coffee maker felt weighty, but definitely not too heavy to use in one hand, and the borosilicate glass is very thick and high-quality, so straight away I didn't have any concerns of burns. It's worth noting that breakages are, of course, always a possibility with a glass coffee maker like this one, so handle with care.

I was impressed by the luxe look and feel of the signature CHEMEX wooden elements, complete with a leather tie to keep it firmly in place, and easy to remove when needed. I was also excited to display it on my kitchen counters between uses because its sleek design really looks that good. Its compact footprint also means it's a great option for easy coffee making in small kitchens.

This coffee maker, which is also available in three, six, and 10-cup sizes on Amazon, also came with a small, handy pamphlet with information on how to use it, including a great tip for easily 'blooming' your ground coffee.

Specifications: Classic CHEMEX Coffee Maker

Performance: CHEMEX Coffee Maker

As I was only making one cup of coffee, I gave my CHEMEX a quick rinse with water and used the included instructions to determine that I only needed one rounded tablespoon of ground coffee – I'm using Costa Ground Coffee, available at Amazon, at the moment. This can be adjusted depending on your preference, but I don't like my coffee too strong day-to-day.

After that, making your brew really couldn't be simpler. Once I'd spooned the ground coffee into the filter, available to purchase separately, all that was left to do was simply pour over some boiling water from my kettle (the SMEG Electric Kettle) to evenly saturate the grounds, and let it do its thing.

CHEMEX recommends pouring a small amount of water in a circular motion over the coffee grounds to wet them, before waiting for roughly 30 seconds to let the grounds 'bloom', so that's what I did, before slowly pouring the water over the grounds.

It's important to keep the water level at least a quarter of an inch or more from the top of the CHEMEX coffee maker, but as I was only making one cup, this wasn't a problem for me.

My only snags are that I wish the coffee maker came with at least a few filters, and that it featured lines on the side to indicate how much water to pour in per cup of coffee. CHEMEX recommends five ounces per cup, but I had to guess how much that equates to; measuring my boiling water first felt like an extra, annoying step I would like to have skipped.

I know this might ruin the 'look' of the coffee maker, but if the lines were only engraved on one side, you could simply turn it around if you didn't want to see them, and they would have come in very handy. Still, these are only very minor annoyances, and pour-over coffee makers don't really get easier to use than this.

What the CHEMEX Coffee Maker Is Like to Use

Like any pour-over coffee maker, the Six Cup Classic CHEMEX®, available at Amazon, is a breeze to use.

The set-up was quick and simple – all I had to do was fold the filter and pop it in the top – and there was no prep necessary at all. The enclosed instructions manual was handy, and you can also find the step-by-step method on the CHEMEX site, and a video to follow along, if needed.

As mentioned, my only 'frustrations' were having to guess how much water to pour in for my cup of coffee, but this is only a minor complaint. You can easily make just the right amount by pouring your boiled water into your chosen coffee cup first, then tipping that into your CHEMEX, which only adds a few seconds to the process.

Otherwise, my coffee was brewed and ready in next to no time at all (approximately two minutes), and it tasted great, too. I tried mine black first, for a true taste test, and was impressed with how smooth it was. I then added a splash of milk, as I usually would, and thoroughly enjoyed my cup of coffee.

In fact, I think it tasted better than the cup my pod coffee machine makes, and at only a fraction of the cost to buy off the bat. It's also non-toxic, as it's made from glass, so it's a great option if you're looking to buy one of the best non-toxic coffee makers.

I can imagine how good this CHEMEX coffee maker would be if you're hosting breakfast for a few friends and family, as you can make six cups of coffee at once with little to no effort, although the water will take a little longer to drip through the grinds.

The integrated spout also made it easy to pour my coffee from the maker into my cup, with no spitting or spillages. All in all, the CHEMEX coffee maker is a delight to use, and I can't wait to use it daily moving forward.

Cleaning and Storage: Classic CHEMEX Coffee Maker

The CHEMEX coffee maker was easy to clean, with just some warm soapy water and my usual dish brush, the Joseph Joseph Edge Dish Brush, available at Amazon. As the 'neck' isn't too narrow, I was able to get right down to the bottom and edges, but I didn't find any stains or marks even at the very bottom, as the grounds are contained in the filter.

The only thing was, as this is glass, I was a little concerned about it slipping out of my hands and smashing. Luckily, there were no breakages to report! I didn't remove the wooden collar on mine, but this is easy to do with the leather tie for washing up.

Once that collar is removed, this glass coffee maker is also conveniently dishwasher-safe – just make sure you secure the carafe and prevent it from bumping into other dishes.

With a small base footprint and compact height, this carafe is suitable for storing away in your cabinets or leaving out on display on your countertops or kitchen shelf. I'm keeping mine out on display for the time being as I love the way it looks in my kitchen, and I'm yet to find that it makes my kitchen look cluttered.

What Shoppers Say About the Classic CHEMEX Coffee Maker

To find out more about the general customer consensus, I looked through hundreds of reviews on the Amazon listing, as I couldn't spot any on the official CHEMEX website. I was pleased to see it has an average rating of 4.8 stars across 6,884 reviews.

One recent review, from verified shopper Barry Timm, dubs it the 'ULTIMATE coffee maker.'

This is the one!' they write. 'I love it...so easy, fun, and makes a perfect cup, and the best of all...absolutely no plastic or aluminum coming in contact with my coffee or water and no cleanup! Just turf the CHEMEX filter into the trash when done, rinse out the CHEMEX, and it's done!'

Another, from Bill Quinby, echoes Barry's. 'You want good coffee? Allow me to share this with you,' they write. 'I have tried it all: Percolators, French presses, double chamber drip pots. You name it, I’ve tried it.

'When you buy CHEMEX, you enter a world of gourmet coffee-making. They will even recommend obscure techniques for maximizing the flavor...Buy this amazing pour-over pot and welcome to the elite coffee club. Good luck!'

The only negative reviews I could find were all older, and only related to the item arriving broken (nothing to do with CHEMEX, and always a risk when ordering a glass item online), or the item not being the same one described in the listing (again, nothing to do with CHEMEX).

These negative reviews only made up one per cent of total feedback from customers, compared to the 91 per cent of five-star reviews. Zero percent of shoppers gave two stars, only two percent gave three, and six percent gave four stars.

So, the positive consensus on quality and performance really speaks for itself in this instance.

Who Would the Classic CHEMEX Coffee Maker Suit?

Overall, I think the Six Cup Classic CHEMEX®, available at Amazon, would suit pretty much anyone – whether you're usually in a rush, are on a budget, have a compact home, need a little and easy caffeine boost in your home office, or just want something simpler and less fiddly to use than a coffee machine. It won't froth your milk or make your coffee for you, but it's so easy to use that this isn't an issue.

Having tried it, I would definitely purchase one myself, and, unlike most coffee makers, this isn't out of my price range for what I would fork out for great-tasting coffee. I think it's amazing value for money, particularly as it looks so good, and feels like it will last for years, so long as you don't smash it while using or washing it.

It's also good if you live in a small rental, as it's compact enough to store away in a cabinet, and, as it can make six five-ounce cups of coffee at once, it's suitable whether you live alone or in a large family of coffee drinkers.

My Verdict on the Classic CHEMEX Coffee Maker

Overall, I found the Six Cup Classic CHEMEX®, available at Amazon, simple, easy to use, and the coffee it made tasted great. The whole process is so quick and convenient, too, and I love the design and that it's non-toxic.

It loses half a star for that lack of measurement lines I mentioned, and the fact it doesn't come with any filters, but other than that, there isn't much to dislike. And, while I found it could be easy to break when washing, it can conveniently go in a dishwasher, but I don't have one.

You also don't have to thoroughly wash it every time – a quick swill with warm soapy water between uses is likely more than enough.

So, I'd recommend this Classic CHEMEX glass coffee maker to anyone in the market for a pour-over coffee appliance, whether you live alone, in a larger household, only have a small kitchen with little storage, or regularly host breakfasts and brunches for your family and friends.

Are you making any of these coffee maker mistakes? A barista shares how to avoid them.

PFAS and harsh chemicals seem to have made their way into everything in a kitchen, posing a constant long-term risk to your health. Coffee makers are no exception.

That's why we are so thorough in testing the best non-toxic coffee makers, so you can start your day off with a healthier approach to your morning routine. One of the best we have found? The OXO Brew 8 Cup Coffee Maker, currently $22 off at Amazon.

It's the perfect non-toxic balance of high-quality coffee and affordability (especially with the added sale), making it the best addition for a simple yet satisfying start to each morning.

Keep Your Morning Routine Non-Toxic with This No-Fuss Drip Coffee Maker

Adding a no-fuss coffee maker to your kitchen is one of the easiest ways to organize your morning routine, making brewing a simple cup of joe a breeze. The last thing you want when you're already in a rush is to have to fuss with settings, apps, and programmes to get your caffeine hit.

Reviewed by our expert Aleenah Ansari, she found that this impressive drip coffee maker, while not the fanciest, made the perfect filter coffee, with the entire eight-cup brew taking just six minutes to complete – less time than it takes to wrangle your breakfast together.

Plus, even after years of use, it stayed consistent. You can't hope for much better than that as an everyday coffee drinker. The only downside is that the double-walled stainless steel carafe doesn't keep your coffee warm for hours, as there is no added hot plate.

For that, you might want to consider the Aarke Drip Coffee maker, also from Amazon, which, while larger and more expensive, will keep undrunk coffee warmer for longer. Otherwise, the OXO model is the perfect effortless brew for busy households.

The OXO Brew 8-cup is designed specifically so that all parts of the appliance that make contact with the coffee or the water are BPA-free, too, making it one of the most practical tools for creating a non-toxic home.

It also makes cleaning a drip coffee maker super simple, as the brew baskets are dishwasher-safe in the top rack, and the carafe only needs a rinse out with soap and water, so you won't be wasting precious time before you start your day washing dishes.

Despite the relative 'lack' of features, the pot still comes with a descaling warning light, so you know exactly when to perform a deep clean to prevent damage.

It's perfect for keeping on the counter, with minimal sprawling setup, ready to hit start as you come downstairs each day. And with $22 off the OXO Brew 8-cup at Amazon right now, it's a no-brainer for peace of mind, and a healthier, stress-free start to each day.

What to Shop

We have tried and tested plenty of fantastic non-toxic coffee machines to suit every style and budget, in case the OXO Brew isn't quite for you.

Fancy something with a few more functions? We compared the OXO 8-cup and the OXO 9-cup and found the latter to add some convenience, but at the cost of some consistency.

The holidays tend to expose every weak spot in your kitchen setup, and in my house, coffee is always the first pressure point. You might own the best coffee maker for yourself, but when you have guests around, you'll find someone wants a strong filter brew, someone else wants a latte, and nobody wants to wait.

Enter the Ninja Prestige DualBrew System (sold as the Ninja Espresso & Coffee Barista System in the US). At its core, this machine is about ease and flexibility. It brews drip coffee into a glass carafe and keeps it warm with a smart, adjustable hotplate. Switch modes, and it produces quick espresso from the original Nespresso capsules in around two minutes, with the option to foam milk for lattes and cappuccinos.

I wouldn’t say the results are barista-level (you’ll want to look at the best espresso machines for that), but it’s consistently smooth, quick, easy to use, and great for a family of coffee drinkers with different tastes. Here’s what I uncovered during two weeks of testing over the holidays.

Design

I tested the Ninja Prestige DualBrew System in our UK test kitchen, then I took it back to my family’s home to test over the holidays. The UK and US designs differ very slightly, but the performance and functionality are nearly identical.

Out of the box, the machine isn’t huge, but it does have a presence on the counter. It’s not suave or sophisticated like an Italian-style espresso maker. It's more about functionality than aesthetics.

I found the controls intuitive, with clearly labeled buttons for drip coffee and espresso modes, and handy instructions taped to different elements. There’s a water tank at the back that slots in and out easily. At the side, you'll find the milk frother and measuring spoons. Finally, light-up controls that let you select the style of coffee you want to make.

On the drip coffee side, there’s a space for the glass carafe (which has a black plastic lid) and a hotplate to keep the coffee warm. There’s also a removable drip tray that makes it easy to switch between carafe and mug brewing.

On the espresso side, you can slot original-style Nespresso capsules (made by any brand of your choice) into the top, select your brew style, push the start button, and coffee pours straight out into your mug. You can adjust the height of the ledge depending on whether you're brewing an espresso, lungo, ristretto, or iced coffee.

Brewing Performance

For what it lacks in suave style, the Ninja Prestige DualBrew makes up for in functionality. On the drip side, it offers three coffee brew styles (Classic, Rich, and Over Ice) and can fill anything from a full 12-cup carafe to a single mug for yourself. Every cup I drank was balanced, hot, and never watered down or bitter.

I used the hotplate a lot to keep the coffee warm throughout the morning, so you can sip at your own pace instead of rushing through it. It has smart functions like Delay Brew, which helps you pre-program your morning coffee the night before.

I’m not the biggest Nespresso coffee drinker, but I like that you can pick up the pods at the grocery store and experiment with different flavors (the Rosso Café Holiday blends from Amazon were my go-to for the testing).

You can choose three espresso brew styles (Espresso, Lungo, and Over Ice). Every day, I popped in the capsule, and the 19-bar pressure system poured a smooth shot in little over 60 seconds. I’ve tested the best Nespresso machines, and none of them were as quick as this.

Another bonus that sets this Ninja coffee maker above a regular Nespresso machine is that it has a fold-away milk frother. It slides out from the side of the machine, avoiding the counter clutter of a separate appliance (see the photo below).

However, it's not perfect. You have to microwave the milk first before you can froth it and turn your espresso into a latte or cappuccino. I also found that the milk was very foamy and not that smooth to taste; I much prefer the quality from a proper milk steamer.

How Does it Compare?

Compared to traditional drip coffee makers, the Ninja Prestige DualBrew offers far more flexibility – but it doesn’t veer into gimmicks or sacrifice on quality for drip coffee lovers. It is certainly deserving of a place in our guide to the best drip coffee makers of 2026.

If you are cautious about the materials in your coffee maker, you might want to consider one of the best non-toxic coffee makers instead. I did notice black plastic on the lid of the glass carafe. Options like the stainless steel Aarke coffee maker if you are more cautious about material transparency.

If you are properly into espresso but still looking for ease, I’d consider the Ninja Luxe Café Pro instead. It is still quick and automated, but delivers a more authentic experience with a portafilter and freshly ground beans.

Our Verdict: Should You Buy it?

For me, the ease of use is one of the Ninja Prestige's strongest selling points. Switching between drip and espresso is almost effortless: choose your mode, select the size, and go. This is very well-suited to a family household where tastes vary, and patience is limited.

It’s not trying to replace a dedicated espresso setup or appeal to coffee purists. Instead, it excels at what most people actually want: reliably strong coffee, fast brewing times, and a calm start to the day. I loved testing it.

How We Test Coffee Makers

At Homes & Gardens, our product tests are standardized across each machine so that we can compare all of the products against each other, without bias. We’ve developed a barista-approved process for trialling coffee makes; you can read more behind-the-scenes detail on our dedicated page: how we test coffee makers.

At the start of fall, I stayed at a friend’s home, and she had thoughtfully placed a petite coffee maker in my room. I’m an early riser, and I loved the quiet indulgence of those mornings with a cup of coffee in bed.

It was the new Keurig K-Mini Mate – and it turns out, all the chicest hosts already know about it. With one of the smallest footprints of even the best coffee makers, it’s perfect for tight spaces – and it comes in chic shades that will blend seamlessly with your decor.

I’ve always loved the idea of a bedroom coffee bar. In fact, I’ve been begging my partner for years to move one of the best espresso makers into our room, but until now, we haven't had the space for this luxury.

The beauty of the Keurig K-Mini is that it is super slim and space-saving. I've tested some of the best Nespresso machines, and they can be bulky and not the prettiest to look at. The opposite is true of the Keurig K-Mini, which comes in subtle green and rose-tinted colorways.

It is suited to small kitchens (especially if you want to bring your coffee station ideas to life), your home office desk, and it even makes a very stylish dorm room idea.

Speaking of guest rooms, a coffee maker manages to instantly elevate the space, turning it into a private retreat that will help your guests feel relaxed and cared for.

Make sure to add some coffee bar essentials, like a small canister of Keurig K-Cups. There are literally hundreds of flavors to choose from, but I think the holiday-themed pods are especially charming this time of year.

And if your guests are staying for a few days, don't forget to empty the machine and refill the reservoir regularly to keep everything fresh.

More Chic Coffee Essentials for Guest Rooms

All the chicest hosts I know have taught me that hosting doesn't end in the kitchen and dining room. A few thoughtful touches in the guest bedroom are what keep guests talking long after they’ve left.

If you're a proper coffee addict like me, and you're staying away for the holidays, you can easily pack the Keurig K-Mini in your suitcase and plug it in at the destination. It's a pretty genius move!

If you're looking for a larger coffee maker to feed a crowd, I've tested some great drip coffee makers this year – you can read the reviews in my guide to choosing the best coffee maker for you.

You might have heard professional cleaners touting coffee grounds as a brilliant, natural way to clean, but how effective are they?

In a time when we're all looking to be more sustainable and seeking out ways to reuse and repurpose common household items, you've likely come across tips for reusing coffee grounds in the garden, but less so about repurposing them indoors.

Here, I spoke to professionals for their cleaning tips on getting more out of your morning brew.

How to use coffee grounds to clean around the home

1. Scrubbing pans

One of the main spots where coffee can come in handy is when cleaning a kitchen. For example, says Karina Toner, cleaning expert and operations manager at Spekless, suggests that you can reuse coffee grounds to clean pans, which works as a natural degreaser.

Simply mix two to three teaspoons of coffee grounds with warm, soapy water, and scrub the pans with a soft sponge, such as the Great Value Non-Scratch Scrub Sponges available at Walmart. She explains, 'Coffee grounds are mildly abrasive and help scrub away stuck-on food without harsh chemicals.'

While this hack works well, it doesn't perform as well as the tried-and-tested baking soda and vinegar method of cleaning burnt pots and cleaning burnt pans.

2. Banishing bad odors in the kitchen

'The strong aroma of coffee grounds can help neutralize unpleasant odors in your kitchen,' explains Mimi Nguyen, founder of Cafely. 'I like to place small bowls of used grounds in areas like the refrigerator, freezer, or even in closets and drawers to absorb unwanted smells.'

We suggest using a small, decorative bowl for this, such as the Kori Ramekin available at Anthropologie, for a stylish solution that won't interrupt your decor.

You can also use coffee combined with salt to deodorize a fridge, which works in a similar way to the baking soda hack for closets. Just make sure that any coffee grounds are thoroughly dry, to avoid them becoming a breeding ground for mold and mildew.

3. Cleaning surfaces

You can also remove stubborn stains and clean kitchen tiles or clean tile floors with coffee, by mixing a few teaspoons with soapy water and applying it directly to stains with a soft sponge or cloth, such as the Great Value Multipurpose Microfiber Cleaning Cloth available at Walmart.

'The grit in grounds helps lift grease from stovetops or counters, but avoid on porous or easily scratched materials,' advises Karina. This would include natural stones such as marble.

4. Cleaning wooden furniture and reducing scratches

You may have seen some videos circulating online claiming that coffee grounds can be used to clean furniture and reduce the appearance of scratches on wood surfaces, notably wooden countertops and dining room tables. It's not an urban myth.

The method is straightforward: Apply moist coffee grounds to the scratched area and allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes. Buff them away with a cotton rag, and once the area is fully dry, apply a layer of clear wood sealant such as Wood Master's Secret from Walmart.

While this doesn't remove scratches, it will do a good job of naturally staining the area, so that you barely notice them. 'When rubbed into small scratches, damp grounds darken the wood, making marks less noticeable,' says Karina, and it works well if you prefer to thrift vintage furniture for your home.

The only caveat is that this won't work very well on light wood – in those instances, you're better off using a professional stain, or lightly sanding and resealing the area to remove surface-level scratches.

What to shop

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

FAQs

Can you pour coffee grounds down the sink?

In general, it's advised against pouring coffee grounds directly down the sink or garbage disposal, says Mimi from Cafely.

'While small amounts may not cause immediate issues, larger quantities can potentially clog pipes or accumulate in the disposal over time. Instead, I recommend composting them or incorporating coffee grounds into your houseplant soil to enrich the nutrient content,' as coffee grounds are good for plants.

Meet the expert

There are a number of other kitchen items you should never throw out, instead reusing them, such as glass jars and old towels.

My biggest pet peeve about traveling? No, it's not the packing or the airport queues – not even the sunburn that happens to me on every summer vacation – it's being away from my coffee maker.

I don't like the plastic pod machines you find in hotel rooms, with the watered-down taste and risk of chemical leaching, and I can't get going without a cup of proper coffee in the morning. As soon as I wake up, I'm chomping at the bit to get out of the hotel room to the nearest artisanal coffee shop. But really, I would prefer a slower start to the day...it's supposed to be a vacation, after all.

Since I use one of the best non-toxic coffee makers at home, I've been eager to try the AeroPress Go Plus coffee system, which promises BPA-free, richly flavored coffee that you can enjoy anywhere. It comes with a coffee tumbler that houses all the equipment; it's small enough to fit in your bag and light enough to lug around. I tested it for a week, taking it around with me, sipping the coffee, and noting down all the pros and cons.

Specifications

Design

One thing I love about every AeroPress I've tested (I have already reviewed the AeroPress Original and the AeroPress Premium) is the packaging. They arrive in a cardboard cylinder which unfolds like a Christmas cracker.

Inside the AeroPress Go Plus box, there were more components than usual. The travel coffee system includes the AeroPress chamber, filter, stirring tool, coffee scoop, filter papers, and the coffee flask, which doubles as a storage container for the entire kit.

The actual 'coffee maker' part is near-identical to the AeroPress Original – I sat them side by side and couldn't spot a difference. Both are made from durable, BPA-free materials, but AeroPress Go Plus is made from a sturdier, shatterproof Tritan™ plastic, which safeguards it from wear and tear.

If you are already familiar with the brand and know how to use an AeroPress, it's probably the 'Russian doll' tumbler you'll be most interested in. It looks pretty utilitarian from the outside, which I suppose is on brand. No airs and graces, just some branding on the side, which I wasn't a big fan of (you'll see more pictures below).

The engineering is more exciting; it's double-walled, vacuum-insulated, and made from 18/10 stainless steel with a brushed matte exterior. It cleverly holds the AeroPress and all the accessories inside, while the lid twists on top and a magnetic slider seals the sip hole open and shut.

All in all, I found the AeroPress Go Plus lightweight and comfortable to hold. I couldn't wait to brew my coffee and take the kit out and about for a test drive.

Performance

To brew, it’s easy. First, I took all the nesting components out of the tumbler and gave everything a quick rinse. Then, I placed a filter paper inside the filter basket and slotted it into the chamber. I set the chamber on top of the flask. It sat comfortably, feeling well-balanced.

Next, I added my coffee grounds with the small scoop provided and poured over boiling water to my desired level (more water means less strength). I stirred gently for around 20 seconds, then waited a couple of minutes. Finally, I plunged the press down to pour the coffee into the flask, with a satisfying hiss.

On the taste test, it performed just like other AeroPress models I’ve tried – the coffee was rich, flavorful, and well-rounded. I could taste the specialty beans in my americano: a touch of nuttiness and deep bitter-chocolate notes, with a light crema sitting on top. The tumbler kept it warm and enjoyable to sip at a relaxed pace, too. It definitely has the edge in the French Press vs AeroPress debate for me.

Is it bag-friendly and spill-proof?

Yes and no. The AeroPress Go Plus system fit into my bag (and my car cup holder, for that matter), containing all the accessories and filters in the tumbler, which was very satisfying.

Once I got to my office, I brewed the coffee and enjoyed a warm americano at my desk. While the tumbler was in use, the AeroPress and components lay stacked on the side of my desk, which was a little inconvenient. I wished there was a separate pouch or something I could hide them away in.

I decided to make another brew and take it out on a walk at lunch, but before I did so, I checked the lid for leaks. I poured water into the tumbler and shook it around. Water trickled out of the drinking hole. It would be fine upright, but you do not want to jostle the AeroPress Go Plus in your bag if it's filled with coffee, unless you want to destroy your belongings.

Having tested some fantastic leak-proof designs on the best portable blenders, I was a little disappointed.

Cleaning, storage & maintenance

While the AeroPress Go Plus is technically dishwasher safe, I’d probably recommend hand washing it. Coffee grounds can easily get trapped in small crevices, and if you don’t clean them out properly, they can leave a stale or slightly sour note in future brews (I've been there, done that, do not recommend).

Hand washing is super quick and easy to perform anywhere you go. Just pop off the base, remove the filter, and give everything a rinse with warm soapy water. It's over and done with in minutes; you can leave it out to dry or speed things up with a dish towel. The clear Tritan plastic doesn't fog up or mist, so it stays looking fresh for next time.

How does it compare?

The AeroPress Original and the AeroPress Go Plus both brew coffee the same way, so in terms of taste you won’t notice a difference – smooth and rich, with all the flexibility AeroPress fans love. The real distinction is in the design and how you plan to use it.

The Original is the classic version: simple, affordable, and made from durable, BPA-free polypropylene. It doesn’t include a mug or flask, so you’ll need your own. It’s ideal if you want a cheaper AeroPress for brewing at home without extra bulk.

The AeroPress Go Plus, on the other hand, is built as a full travel system. The brewer is made from tough Tritan plastic, and everything nests inside the stainless steel tumbler. The insulation means your coffee stays hot (or cold, if you're an iced americano person) and it’s convenient for brewing on the go. If it is obviously heavier and pricier than the Original, but the all-in-one design is hard to beat for travel.

Should you buy it?

I don't think AeroPress has thought of everything with this design, but it's certainly good. If you want delicious coffee on the go, without BPA or plastic cups, the AeroPress Go Plus is worth it.

The best part is that everything stacks inside the tumbler and that's very convenient for packing into your bag or suitcase. It makes a good gift for frequent travelers or a teen going to college or on a gap year.

However, if you already have an AeroPress Original, I might be tempted to stick with that and just invest in one of the best leak-proof travel mugs to go with it, instead. Although you'll have to reckon with your suitcase space.

How we test

At Homes & Gardens, we have a rigorous testing process for all of our coffee makers.

We start with our research. We're always on the lookout for the best coffee makers on the market. Once we have found one with BPA-free components, we order it to the test kitchen or send it to one of our expert testers at home, where they can carry out the rigorous testing criteria.

Once we have the coffee maker in our hands, we get testing. This begins with unboxing, which might sound small, but it's an important tell of a brand's attention to detail. We'll let you know whether we get any extra accessories and what our first impressions are of the coffee maker. Here's where we'll talk about the size, style, build quality, and anything else that jumps out at us aesthetically.

Next, we'll get brewing. We make notes on how easy the coffee maker is to set up and start using. Then, we'll time how long the coffee maker takes to brew different quantities of coffee. We'll start at one cup (if the machine can do that) and work up to its maximum capacity. After each brew, we assess the flavor of each cup, the versatility of the machine, how long it keeps coffee warm for, the ease of cleaning, and the all-important price. Where applicable, we experiment with special features, such as integrated grinders and milk frothers.

Once we are happy that we've tested everything that we can, we'll take a step back and think about how the coffee maker compares to other models. We'll read through online reviews to get a sense of what customers are saying and then, bringing all that information together, our team will let you know who we think it suits and whether it's good value for money. As you can see, we leave no stone unturned.

If you’re interested and want to find out more, you can read all about the process in our how we test coffee makers page.

If you’ve been dreaming of an automatic espresso maker that blends seamlessly into your kitchen design and busy lifestyle, you should definitely get acquainted with the KitchenAid KF6.

KitchenAid make fully automatic espresso machines, I hear you ask? Well, they do now. The brand has been a household name for decades, known for producing some of the sturdiest, most powerful, and best stand mixers on the market. Now, with the launch of their first, fully automatic coffee machine range, they’ve brought that same design flair to the world of bean-to-cup brewing – and I was excited to see how they’d measure up.

After testing the KitchenAid KF6 Fully Automatic Espresso Machine for a week, I was impressed by the signature KitchenAid craftsmanship. It doesn't have all the bells and whistles of more luxury coffee specialists, but it's certainly a reliable, quiet and sleek machine. Plus, the espresso was delicious. Here are all the pros and cons I uncovered in my expert tests.

Specifications

First Impressions

Right out of the box, the machine radiates KitchenAid's signature quality: a solidly built structure, clean lines, and a professional-grade aesthetic. It's clear to see why this model was a Red Dot Design Winner in 2024. Setting it up was straightforward; the 2.4-inch color display screen that walks you through the process.

A small but thoughtful touch is the set of hidden wheels at the back of the unit, making it surprisingly easy to move around the countertop – a detail anyone with limited counter space will appreciate.

I tested the Porcelain White colorway, but it's also available Cast Iron Black and my personal favorite, Stainless Steel.

What's it like to use?

While the display screen is clear and colorful, it’s not touchscreen. You need to cycle through options with the arrows on either side of the screen. This feels a tad dated, especially for a machine at this price point.

Once you get used to the navigation, you can brew a range of drinks at the touch of a few buttons. The menu includes espresso, cappuccino, americano and latte macchiato. You won't find flat whites or specialty drinks, but it caters to most coffee preferences. You can customize your coffee strength, boldness, and temperature – which is my favorite feature, as I'm very particular about my coffee being piping hot. Temperature control isn't a feature on many coffee machines I've tested, but the KF6 delivers.

The quiet operation is another highlight. The KF6 is Quiet Mark-certified, which means acoustic experts have measured the noise during every step of the coffee-making process, from grinding the beans to resetting for the next cup. After comparing hundreds of appliances, Quiet Mark identifies the quietest options out there – and KitchenAid's range is at the top. So, rest assured, you can brew your morning cup without waking the household.

The ambient halo light is a very charming detail, creating a soft glow that’s easy on the eyes – and ideal for those 6am caffeine fixes in the dark days of Winter.

The water tank is well-designed. At first, I thought it was a 'lift out' mechanism – which I don't like, since it's not suited to low countertops. But you actually only need to lift it a little, then it slides out horizontally. That said, the omission of a milk container feels stingy, particularly given the price point. For those who enjoy lattes and cappuccinos regularly, you'll need to purchase the milk container separately, or just use your own jug.

I was also impressed by the removable bean hopper, which also has an Auto Purge feature. This clears out any leftover grounds in the grinder between batches, so you can easily switch to decaf or swap in a new roast. I think this is a genius addition that I haven't seen before.

Taste test

Espresso: Rich, smooth, and full-bodied with a lovely crema on top. The shot is noticeably stronger compared to some competitors, making it a winner for espresso purists.

Americano: While pleasant, the flavor felt a bit thin and watery. I prefer a stronger Americano with less liquid.

Latte: The milk was a good temperature and a nice texture, the coffee had some good depth and boldness. I certainly felt awake after drinking it.

Clean-up, storage & maintenance

Maintenance on the KF6 is blissfully straightforward. The self-cleaning function for the milk tube is a small but mighty feature that makes a big difference for daily use.

For deeper cleaning, there’s a host of built-in features – from deep milk cleaning, discaling and bean purging – which keep the machine in top condition with minimal fuss.

How does it compare?

While the KF6 is an excellent entry into the world of the best coffee makers, it has stiff competition. If you’re in the market for a world-class automatic coffee machine, you’ll probably browse our guide to the best espresso machines and see the 5-star rated De'Longhi Eletta Explore at the top of that page. It won't be getting knocked out of place by the KitchenAid KF6. This premium machine offers 50 coffee options and we think it's the best money can buy, but it does cost $2000 (double the price of the KitchenAid).

KitchenAid do offer some more sophisticated machines in their fully automatic range, such as the KF7 and KF8. I'm yet to test these, but they have bigger screens, an included milk container and tonnes more coffee options on the menu – at a higher price point, of course.

If you're looking for something around the $1000 mark, you might like the De’Longhi Magnifica. It offers a more extensive drinks menu and it's the easiest coffee machine I've ever used, thanks to the intuitive touchscreen. However, the KitchenAid KF6 wins points for its temperature control and much sleeker, attractive design. It's really a matter of personal taste.

What do the customer reviews say?

The KitchenAid KF6 averages 4.3 stars on Amazon. Most reviewers loved how easy it is to clean and use. They appreciate the sleek, modern design. In the review pictures, you can see how well the KF6 blends into various styles of kitchen design. In terms of taste, reviewers admitted they weren't experts in coffee, but they appreciated the ease and strong taste of the espresso.

Should you buy it?

If you’re after a solid, reliable machine that brews excellent espresso and looks stunning on your counter, the KitchenAid KF6 is a strong contender. There's plenty to love: strong espresso shots with excellent crema, customizable temperature and strength settings, and soft, ambient lighting that enhances your kitchen's atmosphere. The uniquely quiet operation and removable bean hopper are features that you won't see on other brands.

However, the drinks menu is more limited than competitors at the price point, the display panel feels dated without touchscreen functionality, and the absence of a milk container at this price point felt disappointing. But if those aren't deal breakers for you, then absolutely go for it.

How we test

At Homes & Gardens, we have a rigorous testing process for all of our coffee makers. This enables us to score coffee makers both individually and against other models on the market.

We start with our research. As H&G’s kitchen appliance expert, I’m always on the lookout for the best coffee makers on the market. Once I’ve found one that I think you, our readers, will like, I order it to my home kitchen. I like to test at home, as it means I can use the appliance in my regular routine for around a month. This helps me uncover advantages (or most likely, pain points) I would never discover with a one hour session in the test kitchen.

Once I have the coffee maker in my hands, I’ll get testing. The first thing I make with any espresso machine is an espresso. This is a way of testing how good a coffee maker is at the basics. A good espresso should be between 1.25-2 oz. It should be 190-205 degrees and full of flavor. A big giveaway is the crema on top: that should be thick with a hazelnut hue.

Then, I'll test other brews: including americano, latte, cappuccino and anything else the coffee maker has to offer. After brewing and tasting, I make notes on the clean-up process as well as how I would recommend storing and maintaining the coffee maker.

After a month of testing and evaluating, I round up my notes. Then, I take a look at all of our other coffee makers to see how they compare. I also look at online reviews to see what other experts and real-life customers thought, so that I could bring you more insight.

If you’re interested and want to find out more, you can read all about the process in our how we test coffee makers page.

If you’re ready to ditch cheap plastics in your kitchen, upgrading to a non-toxic coffee maker is a great place to start. The AeroPress has long been a favorite among coffee and health enthusiasts (including renowned neuroscientist and podcaster Dr. Andrew Huberman). While it has always been BPA-free, the AeroPress has now been reimagined with luxurious, plastic-free materials in the form of the AeroPress Premium.

I spent a month testing this new and improved version, admiring its handmade double-walled borosilicate glass, stainless steel, and anodized aluminum design. Not only is it exceptionally well-crafted and a non-toxic coffee maker, but it also brews some of the smoothest, most full-bodied coffee I’ve ever tasted.

That said, with its high price tag, this isn’t a gadget for everyone. The AeroPress Premium is as much a statement piece as it is a coffee maker – ideal for those who are willing to invest in both style and health. If you’re looking to learn about all the pros and cons, this Aeropress Premium review is for you.

Specifications

First Impressions

Unboxing felt like opening a premium gift, thanks to the thoughtfully designed packaging. My first thought was: this would make a great present for the coffee lovers in my life.

Inside the box, the AeroPress Premium certainly lived up to its name in terms of aesthetics. The glass and stainless steel components look sleek and elegant; I was expecting them to feel fragile but they are actually sturdy and strong. The Premium upgrade also comes with a weighty, stainless steel stirrer and scoop – engraved with the brand logo. They feel like ultra-professional tools.

Setting up was refreshingly simple. With clear illustrations and straightforward instructions, I was brewing my first cup in minutes. There are also video tutorials on the website, if you need more guidance. Unlike some coffee gadgets that feel like they require a degree in engineering, the AeroPress Premium’s design prioritizes functionality and ease of use.

What's it like to use?

Once you learn the technique, it's incredibly easy. I've found it to be a calming morning ritual and it's so simple, you can do it basically half asleep.

Start by boiling a kettle, or heating water to 185°F (85°C) if you have a temperature-controlled kettle. Line the filter cap with filter paper and twist the glass chamber on top (it locks in and it's really satisfying). Place on top of a sturdy mug and add one scoop of ground coffee into the chamber. Pour hot water into the chamber to your required strength (there are numbers to guide you). Stir gently for 3 seconds using the stainless steel stirrer, then insert the plunger a half-inch into the chamber. Wait 60 seconds, then press the plunger down gently until you hear a hiss, signaling the brew is complete and your hot coffee is ready.

It’s also incredibly quick. I timed it to be less than three minutes from start to finish, including the time it took to boil the kettle. The included stainless steel filter cap, scoop, and stirrer (all plastic-free!) are very nice to use. The absence of plastic offers peace of mind for those concerned about microplastics and toxins, particularly when using hot water.

Taste test

From espresso shots to smooth americanos, the coffee was exceptional. Every brew is rich, full-bodied, and free from the bitterness that can plague other methods. I love how the filter paper catches the oils; you're left with a very refined, smooth taste.

Clean-up, storage & maintenance

One of the standout features of the AeroPress Premium is how simple it is to clean. After brewing, a quick rinse under cold water cools the stainless steel filter, and popping out the coffee puck is a breeze. A rinse and air dry are all that’s needed to have it ready for your next cup.

AeroPress recommend cleaning the gadget with 'lukewarm water, gentle soap, and a gentle cloth every week to preserve the life of your AeroPress Premium.'

In terms of storage, I found it can look slightly out of place without a dedicated organizer or coffee station. Right now, I have it on low a shelf next to my kettle and I keep the tools in my cutlery drawer. I'm tempted by the AeroPress stainless steel stand, as I have a small city apartment and I try to avoid clutter.

How does it compare?

Compared to the AeroPress Original (pictured above on the right), the Aeropress Premium is taller, weightier, and expertly crafted. It doesn't use any plastic whatsoever. It's also much more expensive. I found no real difference in the taste, but I did find that the double-walled glass kept my coffee slightly warmer.

If you're new to AeroPress and want to try the brand for just $30, the Original is a great choice. It's still BPA-free and FDA and EU-approved for contact. I also recommend the Original to anyone who wants a coffee maker to take traveling or to the office – the Premium is a bit too heavy for that.

If you want to eliminate all plastic in your kitchen and you're willing to pay for a luxurious upgrade, you won't regret the AeroPress Premium. It's beautiful, elegant, and designed to last.

Another direct comparison would be the more traditional Bodum Chambord French press. It is one of the most beautiful coffee makers, and in my opinion, is pretty enough for a permanent place on your countertops. Bodum as a brand utilizes entirely natural products, incorporating ethically sourced glass, steel, wood, and bamboo into their pieces. It produces an incredibly rich and silky cup of coffee. It's cheaper, but more fragile, slower and trickier to clean than the Aeropress premium – if speed and ease are at the top of your priority list. You can find out more in my Bodum Chambord review.

Who would it suit?

People who love functionality over fuss. If you love great coffee but dislike the mess and complexity of other methods, this is your match. It’s also a fantastic option for anyone looking to phase out plastic from their kitchen; every part of the AeroPress Premium (including the stirrer and scoop) is crafted from health-conscious materials, like glass and stainless steel. If you value craftsmanship, you'll enjoy the look and feel of this coffee maker. It's lovely to use and handle.

What I loved:

• Delicious coffee: Smooth, rich, and free from grit.
• Quick: Ready in under three minutes.
• Health-conscious design: Handmade glass and stainless steel. Plastic-free and perfect for hot brewing.
• Easy to use and clean: No fuss, no mess, and simple to clean.
• Reliability: I've used it daily for a month, without a hitch.

What I didn't like:

• Cost: It’s significantly more expensive than the AeroPress Original. For the price, I'd like to have seen a steel filter included, so you can save on buying paper filters.
• Capacity: If you’re brewing for more than one, you may need a larger French press.
• Station clutter: While beautiful, it can look slightly out of place without a dedicated organizer, caddy or the AeroPress stainless steel stand.
• Heavy: This is fine for home use, but you can't really travel with it, like the plastic version.
• No frothy coffee: If you don't own a separate milk frother, you can't make a creamy latte or cappuccino. If you're spending upwards of $100 on a coffee maker, you might want more versatility.

What do the customer reviews say?

They love how sturdy and industrial the Aeropress Premium is. Like me, they were surprised by the weight and thickness of the glass and metal, which makes it feel very high quality.

One reviewer said: 'It makes the same great coffee, and you can feel a little more secure knowing that you've eliminated one potential source of microplastics from your life.'

Other reviewers felt that it's a bit expensive compared to the original, which they know and love. They wish it came with a steel filter and a funnel for smaller-mouthed mugs.

Should you buy it?

The AeroPress Premium is a beautiful, well-crafted upgrade for anyone seeking an elegant, non-toxic coffee maker. I have knocked it down from 5-stars due to the high price and lack of versatility. While it may not be for those on a budget or those who want to create a variety of special drinks, it’s a great choice for anyone who values simplicity, functionality, premium craftsmanship – of course, delicious americano or espresso.

How we test

At Homes & Gardens, we have a rigorous testing process for all of our coffee makers. This enables us to score coffee makers both individually and against other models on the market.

We start with our research. As H&G’s kitchen appliance expert, I’m always on the lookout for the best coffee makers on the market. Once I’ve found one that I think you, our readers, will like, I order it to my home kitchen. I like to test at home, as it means I can use the appliance in my regular routine for around a month. This helps me uncover advantages (or most likely, pain points) I would never discover with a one hour session in the test kitchen.

Once I have the coffee maker in my hands, I’ll get testing. The first thing I make with any espresso machine is an espresso. This is a way of testing how good a coffee maker is at the basics. A good espresso should be between 1.25-2 oz. It should be 190-205 degrees and full of flavor. A big giveaway is the crema on top: that should be thick with a hazelnut hue.

Then, I'll test other brews: including americano, latte, cappuccino and anything else the coffee maker has to offer. After brewing and tasting, I make notes on the clean-up process as well as how I would recommend storing and maintaining the coffee maker.

After a month of testing and evaluating, I round up my notes. Then, I take a look at all of our other coffee makers to see how they compare. I also look at online reviews to see what other experts and real-life customers thought, so that I could bring you more insight.

If you’re interested and want to find out more, you can read all about the process in our how we test coffee makers page.

Christmas is undoubtedly one of the busiest times for our kitchens. From socializing to cooking a turkey, the heart of the home sees it all – therefore quickly becoming dirty.

So, what can you do ahead of time? While it will still be necessary to wipe down surfaces and sweep away crumbs, your appliances that work overtime throughout the festive period could do with a little love before the chaos of Christmas sets in.

Here, Lydia Hayman, our in-house kitchen editor and appliance expert, shares her cleaning tips on getting your appliances ready for festive use. And, as a trained chef, Lydia assures us you'll thank yourself later.

7 appliances to deep clean before Christmas

1. The oven

The all-important Christmas dinner simply wouldn't work without an oven. After all, you can't exactly fit a turkey into even the best air fryer. But if you're wondering if you should clean your oven before or after Christmas, now is the time, says Lydia.

She explains, 'The oven has worked hard for you all year round, and now it's going to be doing overtime for all that festive cooking. You'll need to tackle any grease buildup which can cause smoke and affect the flavor of your food.'

So, to deep clean your oven, start by cleaning the oven racks, by soaking them in hot soapy water. We recommend using Dawn Ultra Liquid Dish Soap available at Walmart to do so, as the powerful formula cuts through grease and grime without the need for scrubbing. Neglecting to do so is a common Christmas clean up mistake.

Lydia says, 'While they soak, scrub the oven walls with a paste made of baking soda and water, or oven cleaner.' The Great Value Heavy Duty Oven Cleaner available at Walmart will do nicely if you're happier with a commercial cleaner.

'Let it sit for a while to loosen grime, then wipe everything down with a damp cloth to finish,' Lydia continues. 'Don't forget to tackle cleaning the glass oven door for a clear view of your Christmas party recipes, holiday feast or Christmas cookies, to prevent overcooking or burning.'

Importantly, one thing that Chris Willatt, owner of Alpine Maids, warns against is using the self-cleaning oven feature, if you're in a rush or prefer not to get your hands dirty.

He says, 'I can not stress enough that you never use the self-cleaning feature on your oven. The high-temperature settings will cut the life span of your oven in half. Never use it.

'If you have a particularly tough stain, use a degreaser, let it sit for an hour, and scrape off the gunk with an oven scraper,' such as the number one bestselling Razor Blade Scraper Tool available at Amazon, which doesn't scratch surfaces.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

2. The fridge

Much like your oven, your fridge works hard over the holiday season, storing all your delicious treats and tipples for friends and family alike. Therefore, Lydia points out, it's just as important to clean your refrigerator.

She says, 'I find that a clean, organized fridge makes life so much easier when cooking for a crowd. It helps you keep track of ingredients and ensures nothing gets forgotten – like those carrots shoved to the back of the drawer!

'I start by removing everything. Toss anything that has expired (using a sturdy trash bag, such as the Hefty Strong Large Trash Bags available at Amazon), and stack the rest on your counters or island. Wipe down the fridge shelves and any sticky jars or sauce bottles (using a natural cleaning spray such as the Method Antibacterial All-Purpose Cleaner available at Walmart) before putting them back.'

It's also important to remember to clean your fridge drain hole, to prevent blockages, odors and get rid of fridge smells.

Lydia adds, 'Once the fridge is spotless, double-check the temperature settings to keep your food fresh for longer – this is super important! The ideal temperature is 37-40°Fahrenheit. Then, restock and enjoy your tidy, organized space, ready for your Christmas groceries.'

You might also like to invest in some of the items pros say every fridge needs to stay organized, such as stackable boxes or airtight containers.

3. The microwave

They're the hero of Christmas leftovers, but when was the last time you cleaned your microwave?

Vanessa Bossart, founder of GreenTerra Cleaning Services, says, 'Over time, microwaves get splattered with sauces, grease and crumbs. A dirty microwave not only looks unappetizing but can also affect the flavor of reheated food.'

To clean it, fill a microwave-safe bowl with water, and add a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. We recommend cleaning with vinegar or cleaning your microwave with lemon, such as the Great Value Lemon 100% Juice available at Walmart as both are natural alternatives without any harsh chemicals. Then, depending on the condition of your microwave, heat the bowl for three minutes or more to loosen grime with steam.

'Wipe down the interior with a soft cloth sprayed with Method All-Purpose Cleaner available at Amazon to remove residue and leave a streak-free finish,' advises Bossart. 'Don't forget the exterior – use the same cleaner to polish handles, buttons, and the door.'

To prevent splatter and to heat up your food in the microwave without losing moisture, use a microwave-safe BPA-free splatter lid, available at Amazon.

4. The range hood

Forgetting to clean your range hood isn't just unsanitary – it's unsightly too, says Rhonda Wilson, quality lead cleaner at FreshSpace Cleaning.

She says, 'I forgot to clean this when I had guests over! Since then, I have never skipped it. If you can remove the filter, do so and soak it in hot, soapy water. While that's soaking, use a degreaser (such as the Method Lemongrass Cleaning Products Kitchen Degreaser Spray Bottle available at Target) to scrub the hood and fan, especially those awkward corners.'

Then, rinse everything and dry thoroughly, before reassembling the filter. For the exterior of the hood, simply wipe it with a microfiber cloth, such as the HOMEXCEL Microfiber Cleaning Cloth available at Amazon, Wilson advises.

Head of Solved, Punteha van Terheyden has a stainless steel hood and cleans with a homemade essential oils cleaning spray for a streak-free finish. She says, 'Just add 10-15 drops of your favorite essential to about two cups of water, and a tiny dab of dish soap and it'll give you a brilliant cleaning mix that cuts straight through the grease that accumulates on a hood.'

Punteha prefers 100% pure geranium oil from Amazon and keeps her DIY cleaning solutions in durable ambler glass spray bottles, also from Amazon.

5. The coffee machine

If you reach for your best coffee maker everyday (and you might need it more than ever over the exhausting run to the holidays) it's important to clean your coffee maker ahead of time, says Lydia.

She admits, 'Deep cleaning my coffee machine is my least favorite task, but it actually doesn't take very long. And, if you have overnight guests, they'll appreciate a delicious coffee in the morning.

'Mineral buildup can affect both the taste and efficiency of brewing. While I'm at it, I actually like to descale my kettle too, so it's clean for making herbal teas or boiling water for cooking over the holidays.'

To clean a Nespresso machine, clean a Ninja coffee maker, or indeed, any other kind of caffeine appliance, run a brew cycle with equal parts water and white vinegar to descale the machine, advises cleaning expert Bossart. Then, rinse it through thoroughly with two cycles of plain water.

'Wash the carafe and removable parts in warm, soapy water,' she adds, 'and use a descaling solution like Urnex Dezcal Coffee and Espresso Machine Descaler available at Amazon to maintain peak performance.

If you need to clean a drip coffee maker or clean a coffee percolator, our expert-led guides dive into the details for a squeaky clean appliance.

6. The dishwasher

Don't neglect your dishwasher, either, says Lydia. 'A dishwasher that goes wrong can be the most frustrating thing to happen at Christmas, when you’re stacked with washing up,' she warns.

So, to make sure yours is running smoothly in time for the big day, take the time to clean your dishwasher, paying particular attention to cleaning the dishwasher filter.

Alessandro Gazzo, professional cleaner from Emily's Maids of Dallas, says, 'Place a cup with white vinegar (such as the Great Value Distilled White Vinegar available at Walmart) and run a full cycle. Remove the filter from the bottom of your dishwasher, grab a soft brush (or old toothbrush) and wash with soapy water, before rinsing with cold water.'

If your dishwasher is particularly in need of a clean, you might prefer to use a commercial dishwasher cleaner to tackle limescale and odors, says cleaning expert Bossart, and don't skip wiping down seals, edges and the interior of the door to prevent mildew buildup, as this is an oft-forgotten hidden moldy spot in the kitchen.

'Don’t forget to poke out the holes of the spray arms with a toothpick or a tiny paperclip,' adds professional cleaner Wilson.

To keep it fresh over the holidays simple pop a couple of lemon halves in with dishwasher cycles. Our writer tried lemons in her dishwasher and says she'll never load it without them again.

7. The blender

Finally, deep clean your blender before Christmas, says cleaning expert, Bossart.

'These holiday workhorses often see action for soups, sauces, and smoothies, but leftover residue can dull flavors and harbor bacteria,' she warns.

Begin by disassembling your blender, before washing the parts in warm, soapy water. 'For stuck on-residue, fill the blender with warm water, a drop of dish soap (such as the Seventh Generation Free & Clear Liquid Dish Soap available at Target) and a splash of vinegar, then blend on high for 30 seconds, adds Bossart, which is Courtney Cox's blender cleaning hack.

Then, rinse thoroughly and use a small brush to scrub around the blades to ensure they're spotless.

FAQs

How often should I deep clean kitchen appliances?

While we have listed the appliances to clean before Christmas, it is, of course, important to continue the cleaning into the New Year and beyond.

Aim to clean your dishwasher once a month, and your refrigerator and range hood every three months. Every thing else should really be cleaned weekly, or even daily, after use. After all, they are the dirty things professional cleaners always notice in people's kitchens, and you won't want guests noticing them too.

Next, why not try polishing your stainless steel appliances with olive oil? It might sound unusual, but Chiana Dickson, H&G Solved content editor tried it recently, and was shocked by the remarkable results.

Kitchen corners are rife with decorating opportunities. While it can be tempting to leave an empty corner vacant, you would be surprised at how easy it is to decorate this unloved space and turn it into a beautiful and practical setup.

Above all, a kitchen should be a functional area that makes the best use of space, while ensuring it is elegant and sophisticated. It is also crucial to adapt this function depending on who will be using it. For interior designer Joanna Gaines's kitchen in her recently-designed Lake House home, the HGTV star wanted to curate a cozy seating area for informal and everyday dining as well as a great space to cook in.

Shop the look

One of the big surprises in an open-plan kitchen can be just how little space you need to add to gain enough useable room for a dining area in your existing kitchen – often a mere matter of feet is all you need to fit a compact solution such as banquette or bistro-style seating.

Consider a corner kitchen seating arrangement when it’s important to fit as many friends or family members around a table as possible – a small circular table with two folding chairs is the perfect place to enjoy your morning coffee. One trick to borrow from this scheme is to use a table with a curved shape to make it easier for people to move in and out of their place.

‘People tend to congregate in the kitchen so giving them a place to perch, especially if positioned in front of an expansive window, is a wonderful way to make the most of an otherwise redundant corner,’ explains interior designer Fiona Duke.

When kitchens have expansive views of the garden, take inspiration from that and bring some of the colors inside. Joanna Gaines has done just that with the design of this mid-century kitchen space.

Choosing the woodwork and windows in a rich brown color helps to frame the garden views, while the veined marble on the walls beautifully mimics the branches on the trees. Be sure to consider what happens after dusk settles. Here, Gaines has introduced additional interest and color with pretty home decor ideas, such as orange coffee glasses and verdant foliage.

Whether you’re looking to create an intimate spot for two (similar to Gaines's) or for room to fit a table large enough for the extended family there is always a solution to suit your space.

As a latte obsessive, I never thought I'd find myself moving away from my automatic coffee machine. I own a sleek, $900 machine by De'Longhi, which creates café-quality lattes at the push of a button. For ages, my mornings started with a perfect, vanilla soy latte.

But during a recent doctor’s appointment, I received a wake-up call. I’ve been navigating hormonal imbalances, and my doctor advised that soy milk might not be the best choice for my health. My body would benefit more from cutting it out or choosing organic full-fat dairy instead (but I don't like the taste).

This prompted me to reevaluate my coffee routine. I have to admit, I was also getting tired of cleaning my automatic machine anyway – it needs descaling every month and filling with endless, expensive coffee beans. After looking into hormone disruptors, I decided I wanted a new, non-toxic coffee maker that could make good americano.

With all things considered, here's what I'm using instead.

The Aeropress

I'm a kitchen shopping editor, and this weekend I've been covering the best Black Friday & Cyber Monday coffee maker deals that have been tested and approved by our resident barista.

That's where I found this Aeropress Cyber Monday deal for just $29. Praised its ability to brew rich, smooth coffee with minimal effort, it seemed too simple compared to my fancy machine, but simplicity was exactly what I needed.

As soon as it arrived in the post, I loved the red box – I took a picture below. It's almost like a Christmas cracker, unfolding beautifully to reveal what's inside. I think it could be a lovely gift, if you're shopping for loved ones on Cyber Monday.

Why I prefer it

• Delicious americano: The Aeropress brews the smoothest, most flavorful Americanos I’ve ever tasted. The paper filter catches the oils, resulting in a rich, aromatic cup that's better than my automatic coffee machine.
• Easy to clean: Every morning, my partner turns to me as he's washing up in the sink and says: 'This thing is so easy to clean.' It's got me feeling pretty smug about my purchase. We simply pop out the coffee puck and give it a quick rinse. No descaling, dirty milk containers or coffee grinds spilling everywhere.
• Simple to use: One of the reasons I loved my automatic machine was the ease; I barely had to turn my brain on to use it. Once you get the hang of it, the Aeropress is equally easy.
• Non-toxic materials: One of the biggest selling points for me was the fact that the Aeropress is made from BPA-free plastic. As someone who’s cautious about endocrine disruptors, this was a huge relief. Many high-end coffee machines are vague about the materials they use, but Aeropress is transparent. They say: 'All materials used in AeroPress coffee makers are free of BPA and phthalates, and are FDA and EU approved for use in contact with food.'
• Portable design: I only have one coffee a day in the morning now, but my partner travels for work. He could pop this in his luggage, along with the filters and ground coffee pouches to enjoy rich americanos.

December deals

Final thoughts

Switching from a $900 coffee machine to a $29 Aeropress might seem like a drastic downgrade, but for me, it’s been an upgrade in every way that matters. It's easier to clean, just as simple to use, and I know I'm making good choices for my health.

If you want to read more about non-toxic coffee machines, we've written a guide here – as well our full review of the Aeropress Original.

When shopping for the little luxuries, no one knows better than the world's most high-profile individuals, who integrate these luxuries into their everyday routines. That's why, when Brad Pitt recommends a coffee machine, we listen.

Pitt is the ambassador for the beloved Italian coffee maker brand De'Longhi, and in a recent campaign, he swore by the opulent De'longhi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine. To Pitt, wonderful coffee is an important part of a full life. 'For me, coffee is not just a simple drink; it creates connections, it allows you to carve out a moment dedicated to yourself, take a break and enjoy the moment,' he told People of his partnership with De'Longhi.

The fabulous hot and cold Eletta espresso machine can make over 50 recipes with the touch of a single button. It includes a built-in grinder, milk frother, and a quick cold brew maker. Whether you prefer an espresso, latte, iced cappuccino, or cold brew, this machine is the perfect option. Better yet, Pitt's favorite machine is currently on sale for 16% off at Amazon for Black Friday.

Though the price is steep, the machine comes highly recommended. In addition to making Brad Pitt's list, the Eletta was featured on Oprah's Favorite Things 2024. In her Eletta Explore Coffee Maker review, our in-house trained Barista and coffee expert Laura Honey called it 'one of the best coffee machines on the market' and referred to it as, 'like having a live-in barista.' Honey gave the machine a rarely-awarded 5 stars, for style, quality, and ease of use.

She wrote: 'If you have the money to spend, I wouldn’t question it. You should buy this coffee maker. It’s a delight to use, feels extremely premium, and I haven't stopped thinking about it for a whole year. Every time a sale season rolls around, the De'Longhi Eletta Explore is the first thing I search for.'

If you don't feel like you need all of those functions, Pitt also recommends the slightly more streamlined, and affordable De'longhi La Specialista Arte Evo Espresso Machine. This machine looks gorgeous and stylish, just like it's larger counterpart. Luckily, it's also on mega-discount for Black Friday.

Alongside these discounts, our appliance editor has spent the last week scouting out the best Black Friday coffee maker deals that are worth the investment this year. Here are some of her favorites.

Some people opt for coffee in the morning, while others have an affinity for protein smoothies. For Lala Kent, a dirty soda is her choice of morning brew, so it's only natural that she has a soda maker at home for her early A.M. concoctions. Kent's go-to? Ninja's Thirsti Still and Carbonated Water Maker, which is a best seller for a reason.

The Vanderpump Rules star made her love for this appliace official via a partnership with Ninja, who just launched their new ZERO SODA Flavor Drops – the new must-have addition for anyone who, like Kent, swears by their Ninja.

Rather than purchasing single-serve sodas, the Thirsti allows you to create your own blends at home – and with 25 flavor options, you can shake up your routine with a different-tasting beverage every morning.

'I'm obsessed with my Ninja Thirsti!' Kent shared in an exclusive interview with H&G. 'It was the perfect partnership because of my obsession with sparkling water. Then you add on the flavor drops – you can really customize any beverage from the amount of flavor to the amount of bubbles. And I feel like it's a must-have in all households; it's the perfect gift.' Plus, we're in luck. Her go-to is among some of the best black Friday Ninja deals already available (yes, ahead of the big day). You can shop via Amazon below.

Kent explains that she uses the machine from day to night, with plenty of options for different moods and times of the day. 'When they came out with the ZERO SODA Flavored Water Drops is when my world really got rocked,' she says. 'I am officially obsessed to a new level like I'm the girl who likes making a dirty soda. Having my Dr. Thirsti in the morning and then having a nightcap later on as well.'

The modern and compact appearance of the Ninja, which comes with a water reservoir, is another highlight for Kent, who says that the model suits small kitchens.

'For me, the Ninja Thirsti is already very sleek, and it looks fabulous on any kitchen countertop, so if you have limited counter space – I would say it’s the perfect size,' she explains. 'Also, since you would use it every day it's worth having that be the main on your countertop and everything else off – so you have your Ninja Luxe Café, then you have your Ninja Thirsti. Things like a toaster can go in a drawer or cabinet. Keep items you use every day on display.'

She continues, 'I first focus on the aesthetic of all things, and for me, I like convenience. I need it to be functional but also pretty. So, I like to put things on the countertop that I'm using throughout the day.'

The Thirsti comes in customizable bundle options, so you can select a combination of flavor drops that suit your preferences.

This aside, our appliance editor handpicked these Ninja deals that are worth the investment this Black Friday. You can get ahead of the crowd now.

As a trained cook and kitchen appliances tester, I’ve spent the past year curating a list of my favorite gadgets, trinkets, and tableware – so I can bring you the ultimate kitchen gift guide.

For the friend who can’t stop raving about their best air fryer, I’ve found kitchen gifts to make their crispy creations even more irresistible. And for the host or hostess who seems to have it all, I’ve found a few surprises that are sure to impress. Even if they're a coffee lover with the most exacting standards, I’ve found barista-approved treats.

Striking the perfect balance between expertise, luxury, and the element of surprise, even the most well-stocked foodie will appreciate these tried-and-tested, H&G-approved kitchen gifts.

Best gifts for the home cook

The home cook finds joy in stirring sauces, experimenting with new recipes, and daydreaming about flavors. These kitchen gifts are sure to spark their imagination.

Best gifts for the budding baker

From whipping up weekend cookies to homemade sourdough, these kitchen gifts will elevate every baker's skills and bring a professional touch to their kitchen.

Best gifts for the air fryer obsessive

They’re so obsessed with their air fryer, it’s become a regular topic of conversation! These tried-and-tested air fryer gifts will bring even more flavor and fun to those quick, irresistibly crispy meals.

Best gifts for the hostess with the most

For the hostess who has it all effortlessly under control, bring something new to the table with these thoughtful, wow-factor kitchen gifts.

Best gifts for the chef who has everything

They've got every tool in the book, apart from these chef-worthy kitchen gifts – including the latest, highest-rated gadgets.

Best gifts for the coffee lover

Tested and approved by the H&G experts, these gifts are perfect for the coffee lover who appreciates quality in every cup.

Best stocking fillers

Treat the foodies in your life to these joyful stocking fillers. They are all under $50, apart from the Mackenzie-Childs spoon rest (sorry, I just couldn't resist).

When is the best time to buy kitchen gifts?

Black Friday weekend is the best time to shop kitchen gifts. At this time of year, newer models and designs will be released, so you’ll typically be able to buy older models at lower prices.

I also see appliance bundle deals in the holiday season, which can help you save more when purchasing multiple kitchen gifts from the same brand.

Plus, winter is a great time to get deals on summery kitchen gifts – like ice cream makers, the best blenders, best juicers and iced coffee makers.

The best kitchen gift combines the elements of surprise, luxury and practicality. Any of the items on this list is sure to bring a smile to someone's face!

The rules for design are the same as for life: the little things can make all the difference. A well-stocked, beautiful coffee corner is one such touch. When properly designed, these small spaces can upgrade both your design and your experience each morning. No one knows this better than Ayesha Curry.

The cookbook author, entrepreneur, and mom of four sticks to a busy schedule where little moments are an essential reprieve. In the home she shares with her husband, NBA player Stephen Curry, her stylish cafe corner is one such space for solace. 'For me, my coffee routine at home is a form of self-care. I love the ritual of it and adapting the flavors to the season and my mood,' Curry tells Homes & Gardens exclusively.

How does Ayesha Curry carve out a coffee nook that is out of the ordinary? It starts with the most beautiful dishware. She states: 'Because it is something special for me, the presentation also matters! I love that our Edgewater mugs are functional, but they’re so beautiful that they can be little pieces of art on open shelving or hanging on hooks. Each ceramic piece is handmade, so they’re all unique. It makes that morning cup of coffee feel like something special.'

Furthermore, Curry emphasizes the importance of coffee bar organization. She states: 'My coffee corner at home is my little sanctuary. I have my mugs lined up (right now it’s the color Chai which feels so festive for fall) along with my coffee beans and stirrers.' This well-coordinated placement helps to keep the coffee station a relaxing presence, rather than becoming a source of more clutter.

Having everything you love in your coffee at your disposal is another essential element of elevating your coffee bar. For Curry, that's a sweetener. She tells Homes & Gardens: 'I also like to make a big batch of a flavored simple syrup and keep that in a glass bottle next to my coffee machine. I think people would be surprised by how easy it is to make! It’s just dissolving sugar in water on the stove and steeping whatever ingredients you’d like to infuse flavor. A few vanilla pods are great, but another combination I love is fresh ginger and coconut flakes. It’s so delicious, we put it on the menu at the café.' Figuring out simple ways to stock what you love in your home will make sure you never go without.

The best coffee nooks can offer a comforting reprieve from the busy pace of modern life. With Guidance from Ayesha Curry, mastering the design should be a breeze.

As someone with a keen interest in a sustainable lifestyle, I'm always on the hunt for ways to make my gardening tasks more green. Being able to repurpose items both in the garden and among houseplants is rewarding and can look more attractive than you might initially expect.

If you've already exhausted the list of eco-friendly garden ideas, then you'll be excited to learn about a new hack for putting coffee filters at the bottom of plant pots. We already know that coffee grounds are good for plants, but now many plant lovers are using coffee filters as a solution in plant pots, too.

This trend has multiple benefits for plants, so I've asked experts about it and compiled everything you need to know about using coffee filters in plant pots here.

Why put a coffee filter at the bottom of a plant pot?

If you're wondering what purpose a coffee filter serves at the bottom of a plant pot, the simple answer is that it reduces potting mix loss.

'While we typically use brown paper towels, coffee filters function similarly and are an excellent option for lining the bottom of a planter,' says Brad Cross, Eastern Michigan University's Greenhouse Coordinator. 'Placing a coffee filter at the base prevents potting mix from escaping through the drainage holes when watering, keeping your space tidy and ensuring the soil remains in place to support healthy plant growth.'

Lining the bottom of a plant pot with a coffee filter holds in the potting mix while still allowing excess water to drain through the drainage holes, thanks to its porous nature. This means the potting mix won't become oversaturated when you use this hack, reducing the likelihood of problems like houseplant root rot.

This works well in container gardens or an indoor plant display and stops you from having to repot your plants as often - a process that disturbs the root system.

Of course, you can use new coffee liners - like these ones from Amazon - for this trick. However, there are some benefits to using used coffee filters: 'You can use a used coffee filter, as coffee grounds can be beneficial to your plants,' says Tammy Sons, horticulturist and CEO of TN Nurseries.

Coffee grounds are high in nitrogen, an essential nutrient for the vegetative growth in plants. The residue on coffee filters, therefore, can provide some nutrients to your plant's soil.

'Since coffee filters are biodegradable, they gradually break down and can contribute nutrients to the soil over time,' Brad notes. 'By the time the filter fully decomposes, the plant’s roots will likely have grown deep enough to hold the soil together, making it ready for the next repotting cycle.'

Another bonus is that the scent of coffee can be a natural pest control method, repelling a range of garden and houseplant pests.

FAQs

Will coffee filters go moldy in plant pots?

Coffee filters can be used at the bottom of plant pots to prevent potting mix from escaping through the drainage hole as you water your plants. While you might be concerned that a coffee filter will turn moldy at the bottom of a plant pot, it will biodegrade and break down over time.

What can you use in plant pots instead of coffee filters?

As an alternative to using coffee filters at the bottom of plant pots to retain potting mix, you can also use other porous materials that will allow excess water to drain through. This includes coconut coir (available at Amazon) and newspaper.

While saving your coffee filters for your pots, you should also save your coffee grounds for plants. As mentioned, coffee grounds are high in nitrogen making them a valuable ingredient for homemade plant fertilizers. Try following our guide to coffee fertilizer for houseplants to make the most out of your coffee grounds.

If there's one place in the home you will usually find me, it's in my kitchen, and, more specifically, around my fridge.

I absolutely love cooking at home, but more often than not, I find that having a fridge stocked full of ingredients can lead to a funky-smelling fridge, particularly if you're a fish or cheese lover like me.

So, while researching how to get rid of fridge odor I came across this simple cleaning tip trick that uses only coffee grounds and salt to neutralize bad smells and keep your fridge smelling fresh. As I had both on hand, I decided to give it a go – and was both surprised and impressed.

Using coffee and sale to deodorize a fridge

Originally, I saw this hack in a TikTok video, posted by @anna.viktori, or Anna Knows, who regularly shares useful cleaning hacks for the home.

In the video, she asks, 'Did you know about this trick?' And, as I certainly hadn't, and wanted to get rid of fridge smells, I decided to put it to the test.

You will need:

• Coffee grounds: which can be dried and reused from your best coffee maker, or purchased, such as the Amazon Fresh Colombia Ground Coffee available at Amazon, which is similar to what I used.
• Salt: such as the Great Value Plain Salt available at Walmart.
• Tin foil: such as the Reynolds Wrap Heavy Duty Aluminum Foil available at Amazon. That's it!

Step 1. Combine the salt and coffee

First things first, tip your coffee grounds onto a flattened piece of aluminum foil and sprinkle the salt on top. I used a fork to combine them both, to make sure they were mixed well.

Step 2. Poke holes

Then, poke holes in the foil. In the video, creator Viktori uses a cocktail stick to do so, such as the Diamond L'Elegance Extra Long Wooden Toothpicks available at Walmart, but as I didn't have any to hand, I just used a fork, which worked equally well.

Step 3. Wait

Then, all you have to do is wait. It's really as simple as that! I waited 24 hours, and was amazed at how well this unassuming parcel works to eliminate strong odors in my fridge, helping to keep my food fresh and banish bad kitchen smells.

Why does this trick work?

You have probably heard about using coffee grounds as a fertilizer for healthy houseplants, or maybe even about cleaning with coffee, but why is this one of the things people with nice-smelling kitchens always do?

Well, much like when you clean with baking soda, coffee grounds work by absorbing and neutralizing kitchen odors, and masking bad smells. Like the rolled oat fridge deodorizer trick, the combination also saps up excess moisture.

That being said, it's still important to know how to clean a refrigerator and do so regularly, as this trick is not a solution to keeping your fridge hygienic.

And, if you're wondering how often you should clean your fridge, it should be given a quick clean with sanitizing spray, such as the Method All-Purpose Cleaner available at Walmart, and a microfiber cloth, at least weekly, and a deep-clean every month. If you prefer not to use chemicals, why not try cleaning with vinegar for an eco-friendly alternative, and don't forget to pay special attention to the dirtiest part of your fridge – your vegetable drawer – as rotting vegetables are one of the main causes of foul odors.

FAQs

Why does my fridge smell?

If your fridge smells bad, it is likely caused by food and drink spills, which create a breeding ground for odor-causing bacteria. Your fridge may also be harboring hidden moldy spots in the kitchen, so make sure you're clued up on how to clean a refrigerator door seal of mold.

How do you remove fishy odors from your fridge?

One of the best way to remove fishy odors from your fridge is by using a homemade vanilla vinegar cleaner, which leaves it smelling fresh without the use of harsh chemicals.

Is moisture in your fridge also causing premature spoilage? This cheap household staple is the key to eliminating mold in your fridge with zero effort.

I have a small kitchen and I love coffee. So five Amazon Prime Days ago (read, about 5 years ago), I made a quick, not-so-thoroughly researched purchase and invested in the De'Longhi Dedica and I have thanked that impulse decision ever since.

It was the size that got me. This espresso machine is just 6 inches wide and 12 inches high. And something that would fit on my countertop and leave me plenty of room for my all-important decor was top of my priority list.

Price came second after size and aesthetics. I do drink coffee every day, so I wasn't after something super cheap that wouldn't last or make great coffee, but I was also working my first job, paying crazy rent, and money was relatively tight, so something mid-range was on the cards. I can't remember the exact price I paid back then, but I'd guess it would have been under $200. So when I saw in Amazon Prime Day sale my much-beloved machine was 20% and just $159.95 I had to make some noise about it as I think it's one of the best coffee machine deals happening right now.

Okay, I've said this is small, I've said this is sleek now let's talk performance. How good is the coffee? And how easy is it to use? Let me quickly talk you through my coffee routine so you can get some understanding of how really speedy it is.

I fill the portafilter with my favorite ground coffee and tamper it down using the original tamper that came with my machine, click it into place, and press the double shot button. Even if I have just added cold water to the water tank the espresso comes out hot straight away. There's a thick crema and delicious strong coffee below every time. I love coffee, but I don't love fuss so this is all I need.

I use the milk frother less regularly, but still a couple of times a week (milky coffee is for the weekends). It's super simple too, a great steam wand for beginners (which I was when I bought this machine). It textures both dairy and plant-based milks beautifully and quickly. As with all steam wands, it's a bit of effort to clean, but no more time-consuming than any other model I have used.

Five years on, my De'Longhi Dedica is still going strong, and I can't imagine I will be replacing it anytime soon, it works as well as the day I bought it. But since I acquired my machine, there has been an upgrade released, the De'Longhi Dedica Arte, which is also on sale this Amazon Prime Day at $199.95, down from $299.95.

If you are looking for a small, gorgeous looking coffee machine that's no fuss but makes great coffee then I would look no further than the Dedica. It's a joy to use every day and is so firmly part of my routine I think even if it were to go down I would replace it with exactly the same machine.

When I was in my teens, I spent a summer in Guatemala, volunteering with a coffee co-operative. I helped sort beans by hand and connected with people who poured passion into every cup.

But once I entered the working world in a busy city, my coffee routine became anything but mindful. My mornings turned into a blur of takeout cups and single-use pods, more focused on getting caffeine quickly than appreciating the process.

Now, I'm starting fresh. I went back to school (specifically Illy's University of Coffee in London) to test the best regenerative coffee, the latest compostable pods, and non-toxic coffee makers – all in aid of switching up my coffee habits for the better.

Here's how I've created a more mindful coffee ritual, with these very small, but very sustainable swaps

The sustainable setup

My 'eco-chic' coffee ritual blends style and sustainability. It starts with freshly-ground regenerative beans, which are spooned into a non-toxic coffee maker or moka pot. I pour the brew into a timeless coffee cup, then stir with BPA-free accessories. I've waved goodbye to plastic pods – there are no single-use items in sight.

What is regenerative coffee?

The first step in my sustainable routine was swapping to regenerative coffee. To deepen my understanding, I headed back to school – specifically, illy’s University of Coffee in London – to learn more about what regenerative agriculture truly means and why it’s crucial for the future of coffee.

As the first Italian coffee company to earn B-Corp certification, illy has always pursued excellence. Their signature blend, crafted with beans from across continents, is described as an 'orchestra in a cup' – a perfect harmony of flavors.

But maintaining that iconic blend is becoming increasingly challenging due to climate change. Elena Comanici, Quality & Training Manager at illy, explained the challenges they face. She shared a startling statistic from the FAO: 'Over 33% of the earth’s soils are already degraded, and over 90% could be degraded by 2050.'

In response, illy has embraced regenerative agriculture, a farming method that not only produces high-quality coffee, but also restores and nourishes the land. 'Our quest for excellence has led us to a new approach to coffee-growing: regenerative agriculture,' Elena says. This means illy’s team works to revitalize the soil and restore biodiversity, ensuring long-term sustainability. Their process is certified by regenagri®, a globally recognized partner in regenerative farming.

I had the chance to try their regenerative blend, Arabica Selection Brazil Cerrado Mineiro, and was completely captivated by its rich, caramel notes. Sourced from the top 1% of the best Arabica beans, this coffee doesn’t just taste incredible – it supports the future of coffee growing.

Eco-friendly extras

Since I've started a more sustainable routine, I've aimed for better endings too. I've opted for more eco-conscious cleaning materials to keep my coffee tools in tip-tip condition for years to come.

With some easy swaps, a morning routine can become more mindful and help support the future of coffee for the next generation. My next step? Learning how to use coffee grounds in my garden to revitalize my plants!

When it comes to our morning rituals, we all tend to have a preference for the way we like to make coffee. There is the eternal French press vs. pour-over debate, while some of us like a good old-fashioned drip machine. However, there is no disputing that a Moka pot makes a rich, tasty brew.

Sofia Vergara is counted among their users, having recently shared a clip to her Instagram page of herself preparing coffee in her white Moka pot.

We found the exact match of the Griselda star's pot – the Grosche Milano Stovetop Espresso Maker. The best part? It's only $25.91.

First, let's talk specs. The stovetop espresso maker is available in 1-cup, 3 cups, 6 cups, 9-cup, and 12-cup sizes, though we believe a 3 or 6-cup size is ideal for everyday use. In addition to Vergara's white version, it comes in a variety of other colors, including black, blue, blush pink, red, silver, and indigo.

One of our favorite features is the aforementioned high-pressureed wood handle. Not only does it look beautiful, and evoke a rustic modern ambiance, but it is highly practical, featuring a burn guard for fingers. The Italian Safety Valve also protects from high pressure buildup.

Despite its simplicity, utilizing Moka pots for milk-based espresso drinks is surprisingly easy. Coffee made in this pot in particular can easily be mixed with frothed or steamed milk for lattes or cappuccinos.

Additionally, Moka pots work on all gas and electric stove tops, as well as glass top induction stoves – just be mindful that they will heat slower on these surfaces since it is not magnetic.

Grosche has even been approved by one of H&G's former eCommerce editors (and coffee expert), Laura Honey. She lauded the model for its soft-touch handle and milder brew.

'If you've been looking at moka pots, you'll know that Grosche is one of the big three, alongside Bialetti and Alessi,' she says in a roundup of the best Moka pots. 'The Milano is their bestselling model if you count the sales of the aluminum and steel models too.'

We recommend this coffee pot to anyone who is looking for a simple and timeless stovetop coffee maker – go for a 6+ cup if you entertain often or a bright color if you're looking to incorporate more vibrance into the kitchen. We'll raise a cup to that.

Utilizing flowers as home decor is one of our favorite ways to brighten up a space. For inspiration, we're taking cues from set decorator and filmmaker extraordinaire Nancy Meyers.

The Something's Gotta Give and The Holiday director, who is known for her films' stunning interiors, recently shared a snap of her coffee table styling, which features a magnificent bouquet of fresh, white lilies housed in a glass vase. Surrounded by coffee table books, the delicate flowers look effortlessly chic. 'Farmers Market lilies still so pretty 6 days later,' Meyers captioned the post.

Want to know how to keep flowers fresh in a vase for as long as possible? We spoke to an expert to get his top flower care tips. 'Lilies make for some of the best cut flowers to grow in the garden border,' says master gardener and content editor at Homes & Gardens, Thom Rutter. 'Dramatic, colorful and fragrant, lilies have it all.' For those with green thumbs, lilies, with their wide array of options (there are over 2,000 varieties of this bloom) are an excellent addition to any garden.

Though these flowers are evocative of spring, Rutter explains that lily bulbs are planted well in advance of the season. As such, there are some care considerations to make so they survive weather changes. 'Lily bulbs tend to be planted in the fall months going on to bloom the following summer,' he says. 'Just be sure to incorporate plenty of drainage when planting your bulbs, as they will not thank you for sitting in wet, waterlogged soil.'

To get flowers like Meyers' on the table, Rutter suggests simple snipping the stems and placing them in a spacious vase. 'When lilies bloom in the garden borders during July, August and September, you can cut and use them indoors,' Rutter states. 'As Nancy Meyers shows, pure white lilies can be incredibly impactful whether they stay in the yard or you bring them indoors for a floral display. White lily bulbs are available to buy online from Walmart.'

To keep the flowers looking fresh and healthy, Rutter says that special attention should be paid to the vase; it is actually just as important as the flowers themselves. 'A word of caution, however, lily stems and flowers can be large, so be sure to choose the right vase for your cut flowers,' he suggests. 'In addition, change the water every few days to ensure that your lilies last for as long as possible.'

Shop H&G's Lily Essentials

Below, we have rounded up some essential products to achieve a Nancy Meyers-worthy, home floral arrangement. From lily bulb, to the right fertilizer, to the proper vase, growing beautiful bulbs recreating the look has never been easier.

If you love the look of fresh flowers as decor but you just can't master growing lily bulbs, there are many options of beautiful fabric flowers that allow you to decorate with flowers without the commitment. No matter your preference, a look like Nancy Meyers's is well within reach.

How much does George Clooney love his Nespresso? Enough to become an avid brand ambassador and film several commercials for the beloved coffee giant. In fact, the actor has been the 'face of Nespresso' since 2006. Honestly, when the coffee tastes this good, it's no surprise.

Nespresso machines consistently rank among the Homes & Gardens team's picks for the best coffee makers of the year. They are favorites among chefs, baristas, and coffee lovers. Clearly, Clooney agrees. After filming a recent film for the brand, he said: 'With coffee taste and sustainability being at the heart of this commercial, it felt natural for me to be part of this campaign with my Nespresso family,' emphasizing the brand's emphasis on recycling alongside great flavor.

In the video, Clooney is shown making a cup of joe using the Vertuo Pop Solo maker. This machine is one of Nespresso's smallest and most affordable designs. Chosen as the best compact Nespresso of 2024, its compact shape is distilled down to its purest components. Like its larger cousins, the coffee maker can brew drinks in four-cup sizes using a variety of pods from the brand. It's also available in a range of playful colors for a fun twist.

It's not just Clooney who loves the machine. Our Nespresso Vertuo Pop coffee maker review rates it as four stars out of five. The coffee expert lauds its compact design, how fast it heats, its great price, and how incredibly easy to use it is.

However, the most rave reviews appear when it comes to flavor: 'The Vertuo capsules knocked them out of the park. The flavor is deeper, the crema thicker [than coffee from an original Nespresso], and the aroma fills my kitchen in a way I have never experienced before. Nespresso says this is achieved by its trademarked Centrifusion Technology, which, judging by the mad whirring sound emitted from the machine, means the pods are spun around very quickly to ensure every drop of flavor is extracted from each capsule,' says Linda Clayton, our reviewer.

According to Clayton, the only drawbacks of the machine are that, because of the compact size, the water tank is smaller than an original Nespresso machine. The smaller water tank also limits the mug size, not allowing users to make a very large coffee in one go. When the worst thing about a product is that you want more, it's a pretty good choice.

If you're a coffee connoisseur with a love for Clooney, this maker is the pefect buy. However, we can still follow in his lead with some more of our favorite Nespresso pieces, including this countertop gem, approved by none other than Joanna Gaines below.

There are hundreds of ways to make coffee, but if George Clooney says this is the best one, who are we to disagree? Paired with its glowing expert reviews, the Nespresso Vertuo Pop is one to watch.

When hosting friends and family in your home, there are a few non-negotiables – comfortable seating and somewhere to set food and drinks rank near the top of the list. But if you're really looking to upgrade your gathering game, a stylish home bar is a must-have investment. Whether you create a small nook within your kitchen or opt for a bespoke built-in, a home bar is the ultimate hosting hub.

In Studio McGee's latest project reveal, a Park City mountainside retreat, a bold, impactful home bar takes center stage in the living room. While the space itself is a gorgeous meld of eclectic style and classic Shea McGee charm, the color-blocking-inspired home bar is a stunning source of design inspiration.

Luckily, Shea recently took to YouTube to share an in-depth look into the space, revealing the design decisions that went into the final reveal. Here's what Shea had to say about the living room and eye-catching home bar.

Inside the Summit Estate living room

Shea shares that her clients had a vision for this Park City vacation home – though they love Studio McGee's style, it had to be unlike anything the firm had designed before. And in the final reveal, their characterful, eclectic style blends beautifully with Shea's signature modern rustic look. The living room is perhaps the best example of this transitional (yet slightly whimsical) blend done right, aided by show-stopping outdoor views beyond every floor-to-ceiling window.

'In the living room, the first thing you see is the view,' Shea says in the video. 'It's just gorgeous everywhere you turn. So it was important when we were developing a seating arrangement to allow the seating to not only cozy up by this double-sided fireplace, but also so everyone could appreciate the views and then hang out together.'

A floating, double-sided fireplace clad in natural stone brings warmth and nature-inspired charm, contrasting with the home's modern, black-framed windows. And the seating area, grounded by a vintage area rug (as seen in the home's entryway), allows the whole family to gather in one central location.

With loads of seating options, from a comfort-forward couch to two matching ottomans, it's a welcoming, homey living room that still feels elegant and chic. Much of the living room design process, says Shea, was creating walkways around the furniture and to and from the folding glass doors leading outside.

'We worked through quite a few different arrangements, and the way it landed, it feels like it was always meant to be this way – but it took us a few iterations on the drawings to get the plans to just feel natural,' says Shea. ' I think that part of the decision-making process was incorporating selections that had curve to them so that everything didn't feel so blocky – especially with all of these huge, rectangular door systems and windows that we have throughout.'

The centerpiece of the room is a wavy, organic-shaped coffee table, styled in true Shea McGee fashion. The combination of its trendy shape and natural wood finish make it a timely yet timeless addition to the space.

Every finish in this space was intentional, meant to connect each of the sprawling home's rooms to a centralized design scheme while also making reference to the great outdoors. In the living room, a wood-stained ceiling and directional overhead lighting does the job.

In the corner of the living room, the home bar (complete with a bistro-style seating arrangement) steals the show. Statement brick backsplash is painted with a glossy coat of Barista by Benjamin Moore, a 'sumptuous dark brown with a touch of violet.' Meanwhile, the surrounding cabinetry and an accent wall are painted in Stonecutter by Benjamin Moore, a cooler, serene blue. The combination makes a striking statement, and provides the perfect hangout space within the larger living room.

'Believe it or not, this is not the only bar in the home,' says Shea. 'This is bar number one, and it opens up to the living room for the ultimate entertaining, hang out space for our clients. We were inspired by a color-blocking effect. And then one of my favorite parts is these English taps and then a copper sink.'

'There was some debate over whether or not to do a bar here, and we felt like, "Wow, that's a lot of counter stools between the living room and then the kitchen right behind us,"' continues Shea. 'So we opted to do a bistro table and swivel chairs, and then just have this be a bar counter.'

Get the look

This mountainside home has a wide array of outstanding design moments, and this moody home bar is one of the best. Nestled inside a warm and welcoming living room (complete with awe-inspiring views), it's the perfect everyday getaway.

We're in the final hours of the Amazon Prime Day Sales and, true to form, they're dropping some of the biggest and best deals yet. Need an example? After scrolling through every single coffee maker deal on Amazon I found this gem: the Keurig K-Express has been nearly halved in price, dropping from $89.99 to $49.99. The deal is only on for the next few hours, but it's exactly why I love Amazon Prime Day. You just don't get discounts like this anymore. 

I've been very open about the fact that not every Keurig coffee maker is worth investing in. The brand prides themselves on cheap convenience, which doesn't always bode well for brewing delicate, specialty coffee flavors. However, there are a select few Keurigs which rival some of the best single-serve coffee makers out there. They can brew a decent cup of coffee, whilst looking chic and saving you some money. This is the perfect example of one of them.

The Keurig K-Express has all the features any seasoned coffee drinker looks for: three different cup sizes (8,10,12 oz), a stronger brew setting (for those mornings when you need a real kick of caffeine), speedy brewing times; compatibility with a range of pods; a travel-cup sized space for your mugs; and a removable reservoir. Need more proof that this is the best Amazon Prime Day deal we've seen? This scores 4.5 stars out of over 25,000 ratings on Amazon. If that's not evidence that this is an incredible coffee maker available at an unbelievable saving, I don't know what is.

What's the deal?

I've got all the details on the pros and cons of the Keurig K-Express further down this article, but time is running out on Amazon Prime Day (and stocks of this are running low too). So, I'll give you the headlines: right now, the Keurig K-Express is reduced by 44%, so it'll cost you just $49.99 (when it's normally $89.99). That's the cheapest I've ever seen this Keurig and I can't imagine that it'll get any cheaper. Ever.

Whilst there are other cheap coffee makers in the Amazon Prime Day sales, none are actually as good as this one. The Keurig K-Express is a single-serve coffee maker that's compatible with a range of different K-Cups, from specialty brews, to toffee coffee, and warming chais. To add to its versatility, the K-Express brews three different sizes of coffees (8, 10, 12 oz), as well as a stronger one too. For a cheap coffee maker, that's very versatile.

Is the K-Express any good?

So, why is the Keurig K-Express worth buying? Well, even at full price, it's one of the cheapest coffee makers on the market. If you're looking to prep some dorm room essentials, or you want a compact coffee maker for an urban apartment, this is an obvious choice. At half price, you're crazy not to grab one. It's an unbelievable bargain.

Whilst the huge discount is appealing to any savvy shopper, it does have an air of 'cheap and cheerful'. That style of brewing doesn't exactly come hand in hand with quality coffee, so I thought I'd do my research. Keurig doesn't have a history of super-premium coffee makers, but they've made big changes to their internal systems over the past few years. Our experts have been impressed with some of their latest models and, judging by customer reviews for the K-Express, this is one of the brand's greatest successes.

A great point of reference for how genuinely good a product is is Amazon (they're useful for more than just Prime Day sales). If you click on the Keurig K-Express, you'll see that this has an impressive 4.5 stars out of a whopping 25,000 purchases. Those rave reviews speak for themselves.

People praise the K-Express on a plethora of features. Almost every review mentions the slim and sleek design as well as the simple, but stylish colorways. From Keuirg's own images, you can see it looks pretty nice. However, clicking through the reviews on Amazon, lots of customers have attached their own photos of their K-Express in-situ. I've reviewed seventy coffee makers in the last year and I've never seen quite this much photography offered up by the general public. What does that tell you about the Keurig? It's a coffee maker worth showing off.

That's not the end of it either. People also boasted that the K-Express makes delicious coffee quickly. Customers loved how versatile it was (the K-Express accepts lots of different pods) and how easy it was to make your way through all the features. Beginners and seasoned-sippers alike praised the well-balanced notes of coffee, which, even though they were brewed quickly, were still delicate and delicious.

"The coffee comes out at the perfect temperature," one reviewer noted "I make a brew for my wife, my kids, and myself every morning and this little guy hasn't let me down. I thought it might be too small for all of us to get a decent cup of coffee first thing, but this speeds through all our orders, saving space too." That sums up the sentiment of almost all the reviews, perfectly.

The cynical amongst you will wonder, if the Keurig K-Espress is so good, why does it have just 4.5 stars and not 5. I hear you – it's nice to strive for perfection. I had a peek at the 1-star and 2-star reviews (which drag the rating down) and most of those are issues with shipping or breakages, something which Amazon is normally incredibly helpful in resolving. In fact, I actually think it's pretty unfair that they do drag this down because the K-Express comes with one year warranty, which protects you against those kinds of disappointments.

If you want to know my only two genuine reservations (and you probably should hear me out on these), here they are. The build quality of Keuirgs aren't top-notch and the water stream on the K-Express is supposedly a little inconsistent. 

Let's start with the water, since that is probably the most important. Whilst the 48 oz, removable reservoir is useful, some users reported inconsistency in the flow of the water and the amount of water that comes out. You might ask for an 8 oz cup of coffee and get an 8.5 oz instead. Similarly, you might opt for a 12 oz cup and only get 11 oz. It didn't seem to affect the flavors - the taste of the coffees were praised in the same reviews that customers complained about the water flow - but if you pick your mug depending on your coffee size, you'll need to leave some wiggle room.

My concern over quality is more generic with all Keurigs. It is raised in some customer reviews too, because the plastic-build isn't quite the shiny, stainless steel of $1,000 espresso machines. However, the K-Express is new to the market, so there's every chance that Keurig have switched up their game and made a more durable model. 

If Keurig haven't, I still wouldn't mind too much. Amazon are discounting the K-Express to $50. The plastic components might not survive big drops and knocks, but they're lightweight, low-maintenance, and colorful. If you're careful with cleaning and maintaining yours, it might outlive other, more expensive coffee makers.

Other good Keurig deals

Whilst the K-Express is a scroll-stopping deal, it's not the only one out there. Here are some other models that you might want to shop too.

There are only a few hours left of the Prime Day sale and I have a horrible feeling this is going to do a Cinderella on us. When the clock strikes midnight, don't expect to see the ridiculously cheap $49.99 price glowing on the screen, it'll be back up to $89.99. College students, second-home owners, office coffee drinkers, get shopping, This is your last chance to bag the coffee maker deal of the season.

What are the perks of having a prestigious athletic career and pop culture royalty parentage? Apparently, waking up to barista-style coffee every morning is one. Romeo Beckham, the 21-year-old son of David and Victoria Beckham, took to TikTok to show off his caffeine habits, featuring one of the most impressive machines we've ever seen in a domestic space.

The Brentford Football Club player makes his morning brew with a legendary coffee maker: the La Marzocco Linea Mini Espresso Machine. In addition to his expertise on the soccer field, Romeo Beckham clearly knows a thing or two about coffee. 

La Marzocco, founded in Florence in 1927, is synonymous with luxurious coffee. The Linea Mini Machine is a semi-automatic espresso maker with innovative features like a brew paddle and barista lights. 

This kitchen-sized version of the made-for-cafes Linea Classic is perfect for a kitchen coffee station. The handmade machine is built to last for years to come. As with everything, prestige comes with a price, and the Linea Mini retails for almost $6,000.

We know that Romeo Beckham approves, but what do the experts think? We asked Laura Honey, the resident coffee expert at H&G, and here's what she had to say. 'La Marzocco has an outstanding reputation amongst coffee geeks, so it's no surprise that Romeo has one,' she begins.

'The Linea Mini has a reputation as a petite powerhouse. The retro style is a coffeehouse classic, you'll see lots of brands making them, but none rival the quality and build of La Marzocco. It makes a delicious drink, extracting the perfect shot of coffee every single time.' In terms of style and function, she says, there is no machine better.

Even more promising, Honey says that semi-automatic coffee machines like the Linea Mini are her preferred method for home brewing. 'Espresso machines always become the hub of any kitchen because they're hands-on enough to make you feel like a professional barista, but with plenty of safety nets built in for beginners. They're the best way to make bold, full-bodied coffee at home,' Honey explains.

Whether we're seasoned experts or considering the best coffee makers for beginners, Romeo Beckham's coffee process provides some much-needed inspiration for upgrading our brewing routine. However, we know it's not a small investment. With that said, we can still follow (somewhat) in Beckham's footsteps with some of our current favorite coffee makers – all of which are even more affordable (and available below).

To coffee enthusiasts, few moments rival that first cup of the day – and that includes figures at the pinnacle of the design world, starting with Joanna Gaines.

Gaines' powerhouse brand, Magnolia, curated a list of the designer's favorite coffee items, and one that rises to the top is Nespresso’s VertuoPlus from the Hearth & Hand collection, exclusively sold at Target. When Magnolia meets Nespresso, we know the result will taste just as good as it looks. And, if anyone can show us just how aesthetic a coffee maker can be, it's Gaines herself.

The designer shared images of her Nespresso VertuoPlus on Instagram, and, of course, the shots have that traditional yet sleek aesthetic that is so synonymous with her Magnolia brand. We love how this white coffee maker looks against her quietly luxurious veined backsplash and countertops (almost as much as her chunky, Scandi-inspired cookware), but in such a versatile colorway, we're sure this appliance will impress in any style of kitchen.

Followers of Gaines will already know that the HGTV star has an ongoing partnership with Target, where she stocks an exclusive Magnolia line named Hearth & Hand. As this coffee marker is approved by Hearth & Hand, it is inevitably only available at this retailer, so we won't be surprised if it sells out fast.

In a similar way to the Nespresso Vertuo Next, its H&G-approved counterpart (that is equally easy to use). However, in true Joanna Gaines style, her Nespresso VertuoPlus is as good-looking as it is practical – something we're not surprised to see, considering she's put her name to it. And while we may best associate Gaines with the styling side, it's important to note that this is not her first coffee venture.

In fact, Gaines and her husband (and Fixer Upper co-star) Chip also opened a coffee shop named Magnolia Press in Waco, Texas – paying homage to the joy of coffee in the same way as this machine.

'Coffee has a way of grounding me – that morning cup is a simple reminder to celebrate the new day, and then there’s the occasional afternoon cup that serves as a pick-me-up and gives me something to look forward to,' Gaines explains on her blog.

'One of my favorite things to do on a quiet weekend is to grab a cup of coffee to-go with my girls and shop around all the local boutiques. There’s just something about holding that cup of coffee that slows me down and makes the moments feel richer.'

'It felt symbolic for what we hope people find here with us – a spot to slow down, to take it all in, and to simply savor the moment,' Joanna adds. 'In a world where everything feels rushed and fast-moving, there’s a familiar and worthwhile pause waiting for us in a good cup of coffee.'

We love the Nespresso VertuoPlus (Gaines' approved model), but it's not the only model on our wish list. Here are our top (affordable) Nespresso picks of the moment.

Extravagance is a given for the multi-hyphenate socialite and businesswomen of the Kardashian family. However, a life of indulgence and luxury doesn't mean the Kardashians can't recognize the value of the simpler things.

Kim Kardashian took to TikTok to share her morning coffee routine, revealing the coffee machine she uses in the process. Experts were impressed by the quality and affordability of her coffee maker. Her chosen coffee maker is the Nespresso Vertuo Plus Automatic, a beloved option from the coffee powerhouse Nespresso.

Nespresso is a favorite manufacturer of Laura Honey, Homes & Gardens resident coffee expert – meaning Kardashian is in good company. ‘Nespresso makes the best single-serve machines on the market. It’s undeniable. Their premium machines deliver reliably full flavors in next to no time,' Honey begins.

Laura also admires this machine for its preciseness in making everything from a cappuccino to a flat white to a coffee smoothie. 'Automatic is one of the core Vertuo models made by Nespresso. These machines read specific barcodes of pods to brew the perfect cup of coffee in a range of specialized ways to suit the type of coffee you’ve chosen to drink,' says Laura.

She continues, 'I’ve tested lots of Nespresso Vertuos, and they’re true to their promise; whether it’s a simple coffee or peppermint latte for the festive season, these machines make delicious single-serve coffee.' She continues, 'The only drawback is that the Vertuo machines have to work with Nespresso’s compatible pods, you couldn’t have your Keurig or re-usable ones.'

Finally, while the retail price of $165 is more than pocket change, it's a good value for a high-quality coffee machine and less than we'd expect a Kardashian to spend on kitchen appliances. Best of all, Nespresso frequently runs promotions on the machine, so it's usually less than this. If it's good enough for Kardashian at this cost, surely it's good enough for us.

If you prefer a machine that makes a pot of coffee rather than a single drink, Laura reviewed dozens to find the best drip coffee makers of the year. However, for those of us who like a more specialty experience, Kardashian's Vertuo machine is a great option.

Q: I recently heard that coffee grounds can be used as a natural fertilizer for lawns. Could the remnants from my morning brew really benefit my backyard, or is this gardening hack too good to be true?

A: If you're looking for sustainable gardening ideas, using coffee grounds to feed your grass sounds tempting. After all, coffee is said to be good for plants, and finding a use for them is much better than throwing them in the trash.

But, when it comes to making our lawns more luscious, are the leftovers from our lattes really beneficial? According to the experts, they can be. Below, they share their insights and explain how to go about this lawn care task.

Are coffee grounds good for grass?

Lawn expert Matthew Koch of Scotts Miracle-Gro confirms that coffee grounds can be beneficial for lawns. This is because they are rich in nitrogen, he explains, which is essential for plant growth. 

'They also contain other important nutrients like potassium and phosphorus, which can improve the overall health of the grass,' Matthew continues. Plus, he highlights how they act as a food source for microorganisms, which in turn help break down organic matter and make nutrients more available to the grass.

Chrissie Handley of Online Turf agrees that using coffee grounds can benefit lawns. However, she warns that they should not be used constantly. 'As with any fertilizer, using too much can harm rather than help the plant – it can unbalance your soil pH levels and provide an unstable base for your lawn to thrive in.' 

She also notes how using coffee grounds in conjunction with other lawn fertilizers may be needed to get the best results.

How to use coffee grounds on grass

Chrissie suggests saving your coffee grounds in a jar, letting them cool, and then using them sparingly when needed. When it comes to applying them, you can sprinkle them thinly over your lawn then rake them in, Matthew says. 'It's best to do this when the lawn is dry so the grounds can be spread more evenly,' he says.

Alternatively, you can add them to your compost heap first. This ensures the grounds are well-decomposed and combined with other organic materials, providing balanced nutrients, Matthew points out. 

Jeremy Yamaguchi of Lawn Love also recommends this approach, and advises using the compost on your lawn after aeration and before overseeding for the best results. This will help the seeds settle in the soil, germinate, and grow their roots deeper, he says.

FAQs

When is the best time to apply coffee grounds to a lawn?

Matthew recommends using coffee grounds as a spring lawn care job. This is a period of active growth for most grasses, he explains, and the addition of nutrients from coffee grounds can help support this. 

Where can you get used coffee grounds from?

The size of your lawn may mean you need to bulk up your stash of spent grounds – even if you're an avid coffee drinker like me! It's worth asking local restaurants and cafes for their leftovers: often, they can be taken away for free.

Don't forget, there are other steps to getting a thick and green lawn, including repairing bare patches and weeding without killing the grass. Our practical guides are full of helpful tips.

Of course, Jeff Jeff Bezos doesn't take his coffee like everyone else. In his case, he's replaced the classic ceramic mug with a smart, battery-powered vessel that keeps his beverage hotter for longer.

Naturally, billionaire Bezos could have his pick of any of the best coffee mugs to accompany his caffeine fix, so why does the Ember vessel come out on top? This award-winning range of sleek and portable cups uses patented technology to set the perfect temperature for hot drinks for up to three hours. This means we can enjoy a shower, a long commute, and scout our morning papers (and then some) with a perfect-temperature coffee. 

Ember, the smart tech brand behind the world's first temperature control mug (which happens to be Jeff's go-to), changed the morning coffee game – and it happens to be reduced on Amazon right now.

Just how is the Ember mug used in the Bezos household? 'Whoever gets up first, that person makes the other person coffee,' Jeff's fiancée Lauren Sánchez shared with Vogue. She explains that she takes Jeff takes his coffee with Laird Hamilton's superfood non-dairy creamer in the all-important Ember mug. Former news anchor Lauren Sánchez also uses a mug Jeff purchased for her via Amazon, naturally. 

After their coffee, the couple try to avoid getting straight on their phones and instead turn to journaling. 'We're not quite there,' Lauren adds. 'We'll do it, like, three days a week.'

We can't exactly replicate the rest of Jeff Bezos's day, but this part of his coffee-making routine is now more accessible than ever. To get involved for even less, we've found a slightly smaller alternative to the 14 Oz that's also enjoying a reduction right now.

If you are investing in the best coffee maker, your brew deserves the best mug to drink it from, and going for a heated option will ensure it tastes better for longer. Not to mention, the Ember mug is potentially the chicest, most subtle heated mug we've come across – aesthetically pleasing and practical. It's time we change our coffee game, too. 

Cold brew is almost synonymous with summer. When it warms up, everyone wants to drink their coffee cooler and the smooth, sweet, iced tones of cold brew hit the spot every single time.

Since they became one of the most popular ways for people to consume their coffee, I've been testing the best cold brew coffee makers on the market. Most of them follow a slow brewing process since traditional cold brew takes a full 24 hours to make. However, models like the Instant Cold Brewer remove all the impatience from cold brewing.

I made some close-to-perfect cold brew in just twenty minutes with the Instant. It's simple, fun, and easy to use. Is it for you though? Here's everything you need to know.

Specifications

Unboxing

The Instant Cold Brewer is one of my favorite cold brew coffee makers on the market and I knew that as soon as I unboxed it. I peeled back the plastic packaging (which is recyclable if you have a soft-plastic recycling center near you) to reveal a smart, compact coffee maker. 

On the countertop, this looked modern and premium. It has all the coffee maker hallmarks – the stainless steel jug looks like a milk carafe – without drawing too much attention to itself. Aesthetically, this is very pleasing.

Who would it suit?

The Instant Cold Brewer is a model dedicated to making cold brew coffee. If that's all you drink, this slim appliance will the the perfect addition to your kitchen. It's small enough to fit any kitchens, even my small urban one. 

Unlike classic cold brew coffee makers, the Instant will be ready with cold brew coffee in just twenty minutes. Which makes it perfect for impatient, or forgetful cold brew enthusiasts. There's no prep work needed days in advance. The other beauty of the Instant is how simple it is. Even first-time cold brew coffee enthusiasts will be able to make a delicious drink.

What was it like to use?

Before I made any coffee in my cold brewer, I did a few maintenance tasks. Instant recommends making sure that the brew basket's bottom cap is securely fastened (this is where you empty the grounds from) and I gave all the parts a rinse. Once it was all clean, I placed the brew basket inside the glass pitcher, by slotting it through the handle housing lid.

Once plugged in, the base lit up with different strength and temperature controls. It made a chime too, which is a fun touch, but I wonder whether some users might want to disable it, since it could disrupt a sleeping house in the morning.

To brew coffee, Instant recommends following a 14:1 water-to-coffee ratio. This means using 3.5 scoops, or 18 tsp pf coarsely ground coffee with 16 oz of water, if you want to make two servings. That's what I started off with, thinking I could adjust the consistency to suit my preferences.

I filled the pitcher with filtered water, added my coffee to the basket, inserted it into the pitcher. I did leave some coffee dust behind on the countertop, but I'd rather wipe it off there than have it sat in my cup of coffee.

I set the Instant to brew two cups of coffee and was told that it would run for 15 minutes, which is impressively speedy. True to its promise, 

I wanted to check that this was as good with big batches of cold brew as it was with small servings. To make enough cold brew for four, I doubled the quantities of coffee and water that I used for two cups of coffee. This needed 20 minutes to brew, which is five minutes longer than the smaller serving, but 20 minutes is still an impressive amount of time. 

Alternatively, if you enjoy the slower brewing process, the FlashExtract™ technology is impressive. You run it for five minutes on the power base and then sit it in the fridge for 12-16 hours. This slower method is undeniably smoother and sweeter, but it takes longer, of course.

The one factor worth considering is that you do need to pour from the Instant straight away. If you don't, it'll keep brewing and will stop tasting delicious.

How does it rate online?

The Instant Cold Brewer is relatively new to the market, but it's been a popular addition to the ever-expanding cold brew coffee maker offering. On Amazon, it boasts 4.3 out of 5 stars. People found it easy to use and they enjoyed the well-considered features integrated, including the basket, which is easy to clean and the carafe, which is easy to pour from. 

I found a few reviews from people who struggled with cloudy coffee. Although I haven't seen them, I would put this down to the grind size, rather than any fault with the Instant. They need to be coarse. I did have some residue at the bottom of my cup, but if that bothers you, let your coffee settle before pouring from the carafe.

Purists say that they've made better coffee with overnight brewing and I would agree, but this is great if you want a quick convenient cold brew. 

How does it compare?

The Instant isn't the only speedy cold brew coffee maker on the market. Shine's Rapid cold brew coffee maker does offer a similar 20-minute brewing time. I would pick the Instant over the Shine, because it feels more premium, it's nicer to use, and it's quiet. There's not really a scenario in which the Instant is bettered by the Shine.

If you're looking at the flavors, there are better cold brew coffee makers on the market. The OXO makes a flawless cup of cold brew, but you'll have to wait the full 18 hour steep time to enjoy it. It's smaller than the Instant and you can use the OXO without needing to plug it into anything too, so if you know you're a bit of a snob, this is a good investment. 

Should you buy it?

The Instant Cold Brewer is perfect for a lot of cold brew coffee consumers. It's quick, simple, easy to use, and I like the modern aesthetic of it. The cold brew coffee that it makes might not be as perfect as an overnight brewer, but for the price and speed, it's excellent.

Making your own fertilizer can involve using up household waste and getting creative - what's not to love? It's important to think carefully about what you're feeding your plants, however, so that they can reap the benefits and avoid adverse effects.

If you care for orchids in your home, you'll know that they can be tricky to keep happy. You might expect that because coffee grounds are good for plants, using them to fertilize your orchids is also a good idea. However, be cautious with this plant food solution.

Don't panic if you've already put coffee grounds on your orchids because it does offer some benefits. Find out below what plant experts told us when we asked if orchids like coffee grounds.

Do orchids like coffee grounds?

There are many reasons why you might want to use coffee grounds on plants. For the most part, it offers plenty of nutrients and can boost growth.

'It's a good source of nitrogen, potassium and other nutrients that can promote healthy growth and flowering,' says Jana McDaniel, garden expert and founder of First Saturday Lime. 'The grounds also help to acidify the potting mix slightly, which many orchids prefer,' she adds.

You'll often notice NPK plant fertilizer numbers on plant food bought from suppliers. This refers to the amount of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium in the fertilizer - all of which help with growth.

For indoor flowering plants like orchids, phosphorus can be particularly important to encourage orchids to bloom for longer.

Phosphorus is present in coffee grounds, although not so much as other nutrients like nitrogen which boosts photosynthesis and growth.

Risk of mold and root rot

But just because coffee grounds can offer nutrients for your orchids, doesn't mean you should rush to put them in your orchid's pot.

'Orchid roots need a very loose growing medium that drains well. That's why they're commonly grown in bark,' says Annette Hird, expert gardener at Easy Urban Gardens.

'Coffee grounds are usually very fine and so they would change the structure of the growing mix. Plus, when they dry, they can form a fairly hard crust which is not ideal for an orchid growing medium,' she adds.

In their natural environment, orchids grow on tree trunks as epiphytes. That's why they have orchid aerial roots that need repotting as they grow larger. Placing orchids in a heavy potting mix or soil will suffocate the roots and not allow them to drain properly, leading to houseplant root rot.

By placing coffee grounds in your orchid pot, you risk reducing its ability to drain - especially when you water your orchid and the grounds make a paste that hardens when dry.

'Coffee grounds will eventually develop mold that may do more harm than good for the plant,' notes Carmela de Castro, owner of Orchid Republic Floral Boutique.

A build-up of mold on your orchid's potting mix could risk common houseplant pests, as well as keeping the potting mix damp and unfavorable for your plant's health.

'Orchids have very specific needs and behaviors compared to the average houseplants, which is why some DIY fertilizers may not work as well to them,' Carmela adds.

Find orchid fertilizer online

FAQs

How do you use coffee grounds on orchids?

Experts warn to be cautious when using coffee grounds on orchids, due to their ability to cause root rot and mold. However, coffee grounds do bring lots of nutrients to orchids and you can use them carefully to boost orchid growth.

'I recommend working them into the top inch or two of the potting mix when repotting your orchid,' says Jana McDaniel, garden expert and founder of First Saturday Lime. 'Use about one part coffee grounds to four parts potting mix. Be sure the grounds are dried out first before mixing them in,' she adds.

Always use coffee grounds on orchids sparingly and don't rely on it solely to provide your orchid with sufficient nutrients.

Coffee grounds can provide orchids with lots of nutrients, but their consistency can block the drainage of orchids and have adverse effects. If you choose to use coffee grounds on orchids, do so carefully and sparingly and ensure your orchid is still able to drain properly.

Discover other kitchen waste to use on your plants, including rice water on orchids, orange peels which are good for plants and banana peels which are good for plants.

Using filtered water to make coffee might sound like the kind of thoroughness that only specialty coffee geeks would concern themselves with, but you should too. Having chlorine-free water can improve the flavor, consistency, and quality of your coffee as well as making your coffee maker last for longer.

There are plenty of essentials for any coffee station, including one of the best coffee makers, coffee grinders, and coffee canisters. Whilst you don't often see the best filter jugs in that list, if you care about your coffee, they're always there.

The minerals in unfiltered water can affect the flavors of your coffee. Impurities absorb coffee oils differently, making your cup unpredictable. Equally important, the scale will make it hard to clean your coffee maker. It will last much longer without scale.

Should you use filtered water in your coffee?

You might not think that filtered water could cause so much controversy within the coffee community, but it does. There are two camps arguing for and against using filtered water for coffee. Some believe the minerals offer health benefits as well as more fulsome flavors to your cup. Others say that the impurities affect the absorption and extraction of coffee oils, meaning that unfiltered water gives a less delicious cup.

I've spoken to experts to find out the pros and cons of making coffee with filtered and unfiltered water. I've also got some expert recommendations for tried-and-tested water filter jugs.

The argument for using filtered water in coffee

Team filtered water is undeniably a bigger and louder group within the coffee community. You can divide the logic for using filtered water to make coffee into three camps: flavor, consistency, and cleaning. Here's what the experts say.

Flavor

I spoke with Heather Perry, two-time US barista champion and coffee industry expert, about whether people should use filtered water in their coffee. She said that 'coffee is 98% water, so your coffee is only ever as good as your water. If you don't drink tap water, don't use it to make coffee.' Plenty of people that I interviewed said that they wouldn't even use tap water for their flowers, so using it for coffee was a straight no.

Heather told me, 'I only use filtered water when I'm making coffee at home because it makes a big difference to the flavors of the coffee. Many factors, including water characteristics, contribute to the finished flavor profile, body, and overall quality.'

Consistency

Kayla Stavridis, barista and coffee expert, says that 'the mineral content and pH level of water can affect the extraction of coffee during brewing. Filtered water often has a more balanced pH and optimal mineral content, enhancing the overall extraction process and ensuring that each cup reaches its potential in terms of aroma and taste.'

Similarly, Heather Perry, who runs a series of cafes in Southern California, called Klatch Coffee, says 'We use high-end commercial water filtration systems in order to keep consistency amongst the flavor of our coffee as well as our coffee equipment in good condition.

'For home coffee enthusiasts, one thing to be careful of is using a filtration system that wipes your water of everything, good and bad. We want to maintain a lot of the minerals that are water because they add flavor and aromatics to the coffee, while we take out the components that add a negative perception to the coffee. Something as simple as a pitcher equipped with a charcoal filter (such as this Brita one from Walmart) can be filled via your tap can do a really nice job of doing just enough. Same as in-line filters at the kitchen faucet and refrigerator are also a good solution.'

We've tested a number of water pitchers and here are our three favorites:

Cleaning

The final, but equally important, reason that experts recommend using filtered water is to prevent scale build-up on the heating elements. Kayla Stavridis, barista and coffee expert, says that 'hard water can cause limescale deposits in your coffee machine, potentially damaging it over time and affecting its efficiency. Using filtered water reduces the risk of these mineral build-ups, prolonging the life of your coffee maker.' If your coffee maker already has limescale on it, we have plenty of advice for how to clean your coffee maker.

The argument against using filtered water in coffee

There isn't really an argument against using filtered water in coffee, but plenty of people caution against complete filtration. Whilst you might want to remove chlorine and heavy metals from your coffee, you might not want to take out some of the natural minerals that are good for your health and, potentially for the flavors of your coffee.

Jee Chloe, Tea Sommelier and coffee expert, said, 'One morning, I brewed a fresh pot of coffee using my typical tap water and was disappointed by the flat, almost stale taste. Out of curiosity, I tried brewing another pot with filtered water, and the difference was night and day – suddenly, the coffee burst with rich, vibrant flavors I never knew were hiding in those same beans. From that day on, I became a convert to the filtered water camp for all my coffee brewing.

However, that's my personal preference. I know plenty of people who prefer unfiltered water. The best way is to experiment and see what you like. Brew the same coffee once with tap water and once with filtered water, and see if you can taste a difference. You may notice the filtered version tastes brighter, smoother, or even a little sweeter.'

Jee also says to make sure that your beans are the best quality possible. 'Using freshly roasted beans, the right brewing technique, and good water as the base will make a delicious cup of coffee,' says Jee. You can never underestimate the basics.

If you want to get into the geeky specifics of the water minerals, Theo Chan, managing editor of Coffee Roast, says that 'minerals like magnesium and calcium can enhance the extraction process and improve the flavor profile of your coffee. These minerals help to bring out the coffee's natural flavors and can provide a more balanced taste. Many high-quality coffee shops use water with specific mineral content to ensure consistent and optimal coffee brewing.

However, it's important to use the right balance of minerals, as too much or too little can negatively impact the taste. Some specialized water additives designed for coffee brewing are available to help achieve the ideal mineral composition. Brands like 3rd Wave Water specialize in providing the right balance.

So, if you want to look after your coffee maker and err on the side of caution, it's a good idea to use filtered water to make coffee. However, if you want to leave some of the minerals in your water, it's a good idea to look for filters that will leave some of the goodness in your water.

FAQs

What should I use to make coffee if I don't have filtered water?

Heather Perry, two-time US barista champion and owner of Klatch Coffee, recommends buying bottled, pre-filtered water to use for coffee. She says to 'be careful as not all waters are created equal and they will influence the flavor of the coffee, some for positive and some negative.

Third Wave Water makes a mineral additive designed to be dissolved into distilled or reverse osmosis or distilled water, resulting in water that perfectly meets the Specialty Coffee Association’s standards. This is a great alternative if your home has very hard or soft water.'

Does a reverse osmosis filter system clean the water enough for coffee?

Reverse Osmosis Systems, installed under your sink, are an excellent and easy alternative to a filter jug. This technology offers superior purification, removing nearly all dissolved particles and contaminants.

The OXO 8-cup coffee maker has been a long-standing member of most buying guides for the best coffee makers of all time. It's quick, convenient, and makes delicious coffee. With a more techy sibling, the OXO 9-cup, close on its heels the question on everyone's lips is 'can the 9-cup be better than the best?'

In the last year, I've tested nearly seventy of the best coffee makers on the market, including both the OXO 8-cup and 9-cup. Both of these are brilliant drip coffee makers, but they serve different purposes.

If you want to know what all the fuss is about as well as the difference between the two and which is the best drip coffee maker for you, here's everything you need to know.

What is the OXO 8-cup coffee maker?

The 8-cup is simple and it makes consistently delicious coffee, across small and big batches. It's not programmable, but there's good reason for it.

The 8-cup was released back in 2020 and has stayed dominant in roundups of the best drip coffee makers ever since. It deserves every ounce of praise, for its price, capacity, and speed, it's a steal.

You can see in the images that this is a minimalistic machine. It's nothing fancy or elaborate, but it's really what's on the inside (and in your coffee cup) that counts. The carafe is double-walled and vacuum-insulated, keeping coffee hot for hours without the risk of a hot plate burning your coffee, making it taste stale and bitter.

You can make everything from a single cup of coffee right up to eight cups. Normally, drip coffee makers aren't great for single-servings, but this was consistent across the board in our tests. Even better, the carafe was easy to pour from, so we could enjoy coffee completely spill-free.

The OXO 8-cup has a narrow, flat brew bed, which is brilliant if you want full flavors, even in smaller batches. It ensures the bed of coffee grounds is always thick, so your water takes longer to drain through, picking up more coffee oils in the process.

If you want to find out more, you can read our full OXO 8-cup coffee maker review

What is the OXO 9-cup coffee maker?

If you want programmable options, a digital display, and more delicate flavors, this is worth the extra $30.

The 9-cup is bigger than the 8-cup and, unsurprisingly more expensive. It was actually released before the 8-cup, back in 2015, and has been sitting in the shadows, until recently.

If you were disappointed that the 8-cup isn't programmable and that it doesn't come with a timer, you can relax. the 9-cup has both auto-functions and a digital timer, which makes this more complex to get your head around the first time, but in the longer term, it makes life a lot easier. The OXO can brew you a morning cup of coffee before you're even awake. The timer will also tell you how long your coffee has been brewed, so you know whether you should tip yours away and start again.

The OXO 9-cup also looks different to the soft edges and straight lines of the 8-cup. This is more interactive with its curved edges and sleek design. The compromise that you make with the 9 is on the brew bed (the feature that helps the OXO 8-cup create a thick layer of coffee even on small batches). The 9 is conical, rather than flat, like the eight, which means that you'll get more delicate and light flavors, but it's more tricky to handle.

If you want to find out more, you can read our full OXO 9-cup coffee maker review.

OXO 8-cup vs OXO 9-cup

Both the OXO 8-cup and the OXO 9-cup coffee makers put quality first. They've both been made to the SCA's gold standard of coffee makers, which means that they can extract the rich flavors of coffee like the best coffee makers on the market. Neither take the temperature too far (or not far enough), delivering delicious, evenly brewed coffee at a reasonable price point. For value and performance, these are both tough to beat, but which is best?

If you want to see a breakdown of the numbers, here's a OXO 8-cup  vs OXO 9-cup coffee maker table, so you can see all the specs, head to head:

Which should you buy?

I fear that I might disappoint you because there's no universally clear-cut winner in the OXO 8-cup vs 9-cup coffee maker debate. The 8-cup is brilliant because of its deeper, rounder, more balanced flavors. It's also smaller and cheaper. However, if you're someone who likes a sip that gives both the high and low notes of coffee, the 9 is perfect. It's more techy and sleek-looking too. 

If you want to know which one I, as a barista, prefer, it's the 8-cup. There's a reason this is more popular. It's unique in being able to make delicious single-servings and I place a lot of value on consistency. However, convenience can be worth the extra cost for some people.

Everybody wants to have a special spin on their coffee station's aesthetics. Whether you opt for an iconic brand or a stand-out coffee maker, how it looks is just as important as how delicious your coffee tastes. That's why the Nespresso X Pantone collaboration is so exciting, for both coffee enthusiasts and interior stylists alike.

Inspired by the sparkling seas and sun-ripened fruits of the Mediterranean, Pantone has created six, special colorways for Nespresso to use on some of their best single-serve coffee makers, travel mugs, and coffee capsules too.

I've got all the details on what to shop and where to buy it, but, be quick. Some of the pieces have already sold out. This collection will go down in history as some of the best Nespresso machines, but it isn't going to be around forever.

What is the collaboration?

This summer, Nespresso have teamed up with the American color icons, the Pantone Color Institute. They wanted to cultivate the 'essence of a Meditteranean summer,' says Kim Sterling, Head of Strategic Marketing and Partnerships, 'these designs echo the glamorous spirit of the seventies era, encapsulating both nostalgia and contemporary elegance. It's more than just a collaboration; it's a sensory journey.'

Kim says each color has been carefully selected to evoke different aspects of the Meditteranean Riviera. These are the six hues on offer and the thought process behind them:

• Mandarin Orange: this is at the core of the collection and is described by Pantone as 'gregarious and fun-loving, luminous and hot.' It's all about summer fun and adventures.
• Habanero Gold: unsurprisingly, this is all about sunshine and happiness. It's based on evoking that warm, contented feeling that you get when you're in a sunny spot with a cup of coffee in your hand.
• Muskmelon: it's not the Mediterranean without some juicy, sun-kissed fruits. This lively, sweet, natural color reflects the plump, fresh foods that taste extra special on holiday.
• Aquarelle: if you've ever imagined diving into the cool, refreshing Mediterranean sea, you'll have pictured this tone. It's the stuff we all long for.
• Tofu: picture sandy beaches and chalky rocks at the seaside and you'll see tofu. It's a wonderfully warm neutral, perfect for any kitchen.
• Blue Lolite: when the sun sets and the heat of the day softens, the sea goes this deeper shade of blue. Pantone wanted to represent the cool night sky, as seen through reflections on the sea.

What can I shop in the collaboration?

This is a fast-selling, limited edition collection, so there's a select few pieces from the collaboration available at Nespresso. The table coasters and tumbler mugs have already sold out, but, don't worry, there's plenty more where that came from:

More details on the collaboration

Alongside the products, you might be able to spot some other changes with the Nespresso X Pantone collaboration. Nespresso has announced that 'our boutiques worldwide will undergo a vibrant transformation, dressed in the hues of the summer palette curated by the Pantone Color Institute. From the moment customers step in front of the boutiques, they will be immersed in the spirit of the Mediterranean Riviera, surrounded by colors that evoke the warmth and vibrancy of summer.'

If you want to guarantee to come face-to-face with the collaboration, Nespresso will be transforming its Nespresso Plage into a 70s-style beach club at the Cannes Film Festival. It's set to be something seriously special.

If you've been waiting for Memorial Day sales to bag one of the best coffee maker deals of the year, today is your lucky day. In Keurig's early sale, they've discounted one of their most popular models by a whopping 72%. I'd take it to checkout as soon as you can because this won't hang around.

Normally, in the run-up to Memorial Day sales, I see some modest coffee maker deals, set to whet the appetite of enthusiastic coffee shoppers. These are worth picking up if you're in a hurry to get a coffee machine on your countertop, but normally I advise shoppers to hold on for the big event.

However, when I was scrolling through some early Keurig coffee maker deals, I came across a coffee-dropping, heart-stopping deal. The Keurig K-Supreme SMART should be $179.99, but, at Keurig, right now, it's only $49.99. I normally think of Keurig coffee makers as affordable, but this is an overhaul of the term 'affordable'. It's a downright steal.

Luckily for you (and me), one of our experts has hands-on experience with the K-Supreme Smart. She's used it every day since testing it and gave it close to top marks in our tests. Here's everything you need to know about the deal and the Keurig K-Supreme SMART (aside from the fact that it's possibly the best coffee maker deal of the year).

Is the Keurig K-Supreme Smart deal the best coffee maker deal?

Let's talk details first. The K-Supreme Smart is the perfect coffee maker for a range of coffee drinkers and this deal is possibly going to be better than all the Memorial Day discounts that we've been waiting for.

In terms of who it suits, the K-Supreme Smart is perfect for speedy, single-servings of coffee. If you're often in a hurry, it'll be a game-changer.

The beauty of Keurigs is that they are compatible with almost all coffee pods on the market, so you can invest in some reusable ones (such as these reusable capsules from Walmart) as well as specialty, seasonal flavors when you want some fun around the holidays.

The K-Supreme Smart is special because it suits a high-tech coffee drinker but it comes without the premium price tag that lots of these machines demand. Our expert tester, Camryn, says 'the K-Supreme Smart makes a great cup of coffee — or any hot or iced drink you can think of — allowing you to customize brew strength, temperature, drink size, and more. Plus, it's notably more compact than any other Keurig models, making it ideal for small kitchens.'

So, if you're wondering who it suits, the answer is anyone.

Who does the Keurig K-Supreme Smart suit?

I asked our expert, Camryn for some more details on her experience with the K-Supreme Smart, so that you know whether you're spending your money wisely. She said, 'I loved testing the K-Supreme Smart. It really suited my lifestyle, because it could meet the needs of all my family (thanks to its large water tank). My coffees, hot chocolates, and chias were consistently delicious and ready to drink in less than two minutes.'

The machine caters to lots of people with different tastes. It doesn't come with a huge footprint, as you might expect. Instead, it's svelte, slim, and smart. Camryn's only caution was 'If you're not tech savvy, you won't be able to make the most of its abilities.' However, for under $50, it doesn't matter if you don't connect your phone up at all. This is a steal.

Are there other Keurig deals I should know about?

Right now, you're not going to find a better deal or a bigger saving on a Keurig, or in fact any coffee maker worth buying, than on this. However, if you'd like to keep your options open and peruse the other Keurig and single-serve coffee maker deals, here are some other offers that are pretty tempting.

When can I pick up a good coffee maker deal?

If that deal still isn't quite what you're after, rest assured, Memorial Day is coming soon (May 27). We're covering all the best coffee maker deals on offer in the lead-up to and throughout the whole sale event. There will be some big sales across a range of retailers. Stay tuned.