Maintaining your Breville Barista Pro is essential for optimal performance and great-tasting coffee. Regular cleaning removes coffee oils, residues, and mineral build-up that can impair your machine’s function. This guide provides clear, step-by-step instructions to safely clean your espresso machine and keep it running smoothly.
Follow these practical tips to ensure thorough cleaning without damaging your appliance.
Key Takeaways
| Routine Maintenance | Regular cleaning extends your machine’s lifespan. |
| Use Proper Products | Use Breville-approved cleaning tablets for best results. |
| Descale Regularly | Descaling prevents mineral build-up and improves performance. |
| Safe Cleaning Practices | Always unplug before cleaning to ensure safety. |

Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
- Third Wave Specialty Coffee: Brews high-quality coffee at home
- All-in-One Espresso Machine: Includes integrated grinder for convenience
- Fast Bean to Espresso: Brews in under one minute
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Gather Your Supplies
- Breville-approved cleaning tablets (e.g., Breville BEC250)
- Fresh filtered water
- Soft cloth or sponge
- Descaling solution (if needed)

Breville BEC250 Espresso Machine Cleaning Tablets, 8 Pack
- Brand Compatibility: Designed for Breville espresso machines
- Cleaning Purpose: Removes coffee oils and residues
- Package Quantity: 8 cleaning tablets
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Prepare the Machine
Ensure the machine is turned off and unplugged. Remove the water reservoir and empty it. Discard any used coffee grounds from the portafilter and drip tray.
Clean the Portafilter and Filter Basket
- Remove the portafilter and filter basket.
- Soak them in warm water with a little cleaning tablet dissolved.
- Use a soft brush or sponge to scrub away coffee oils and residues.
- Rinse thoroughly and dry before reassembling.
Clean the Shower Screen and Group Head
Use a damp cloth to wipe the shower screen and group head. For more thorough cleaning, attach a cleaning tablet to the portafilter and run a cleaning cycle as per your machine’s manual.
Descale the Machine
Follow your Breville’s instructions for descaling. Typically, fill the water reservoir with a descaling solution or a mixture of water and vinegar, then run a cleaning cycle. Rinse with fresh water afterward to remove any residue.
The Products in This Guide

Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
- ✔ Pack Size: 8 tablets
- ✔ Use Frequency: Every 1-2 months
- ✔ Ingredients: Food-grade, pharmaceutical

Breville BEC250 Espresso Machine Cleaning Tablets
- ✔ Number of Tablets: 8
- ✔ Intended Use: Cleaning oils and residues
- ✔ Safety: Food-grade ingredients
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR

The Breville BES870BTR is a reliable espresso machine that benefits from regular cleaning with dedicated products. Using the right cleaning tablets, like Breville BEC250, ensures thorough removal of oils and residues, prolonging the machine’s lifespan.
Pros:
- Proprietary cleaning tablets ensure compatibility
- Prolongs machine lifespan
- Easy to use with dissolving action
- Helps maintain optimal flavor
Cons:
- Requires regular purchase of tablets
- Not suitable for other brands
- Cleaning tablets are single-use
Best for: Maintaining machine hygiene and flavor quality
Not ideal for: If you prefer DIY cleaning solutions or have other brands
Bottom line: Use dedicated cleaning tablets regularly to keep your Breville espresso machine in top shape.
Breville BEC250 Espresso Machine Cleaning Tablets

Breville BEC250 tablets are designed specifically for Breville espresso machines, ensuring safe and effective cleaning. Regular use prevents build-up and maintains optimal flavor extraction.
Pros:
- Official Breville product
- Effective removal of oils
- Easy to dissolve
- Prolongs machine life
Cons:
- Single-use packaging
- Slightly more expensive than DIY options
- Must be purchased regularly
Best for: Consistent cleaning for optimal espresso quality
Not ideal for: If you prefer natural or DIY cleaning methods
Bottom line: Choose Breville BEC250 tablets for safe, effective espresso machine cleaning.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I clean my Breville Barista Pro?
It is recommended to clean the machine every 1-2 months, depending on usage, with regular descaling and cleaning of the portafilter and group head.
Can I use vinegar instead of cleaning tablets?
While vinegar can help with descaling, using dedicated cleaning tablets like Breville BEC250 ensures thorough cleaning without risking damage to internal components.
Is it safe to run the cleaning cycle with the machine plugged in?
For safety, always unplug your Breville machine before cleaning or performing maintenance. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for running cleaning cycles.
How do I know when to replace the charcoal water filters?
Replace the charcoal filters every two months or after approximately 50 uses, or when you notice a change in water taste or flow rate.
Keep Your Breville Barista Pro in Prime Condition
Regular cleaning is the key to ensuring your Breville Barista Pro continues to produce delicious espresso and lasts for years. Using proper cleaning products and following these steps will help you maintain optimal performance and flavor. Remember, a clean machine not only tastes better but also avoids costly repairs down the line.
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