If your Breville Bambino Plus or similar model keeps clogging due to grinder issues, it can disrupt your coffee routine and cause frustration. This guide provides practical, step-by-step instructions to diagnose and resolve grinder clogging problems, ensuring your machine functions smoothly again.
Regular maintenance, proper cleaning, and correct usage can prevent most grinder clogs. Follow these safe procedures to troubleshoot and fix the issue effectively, saving money and extending your machine’s lifespan.
Key Takeaways
| Identify the cause | Clogs often result from oily or stale coffee grounds blocking the grinder. |
| Regular cleaning helps | Frequent cleaning of the grinder and burrs prevents buildup and blockages. |
| Use the right coffee grounds | Avoid overly oily or old beans that can cause clogging. |
| Disassemble carefully | Follow manufacturer instructions to safely access and clean internal parts. |
| Prevent future clogs | Schedule regular cleaning and use fresh, dry coffee beans. |
Breville Bambino Plus, Black Stainless Steel
The Breville Bambino Plus delivers third wave specialty coffee at home using the 4 keys formula and is...
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
Gather Necessary Tools and Supplies
Before starting, ensure you have the right tools and cleaning supplies. You will need a soft brush, a cleaning cloth, and optional replacement parts like burrs if necessary. For cleaning, consider using Breville BEC250 Cleaning Tablets or Replacement Espresso Cleaning Tablets, which are designed to remove oils and residues that contribute to clogging.
Always unplug your machine before disassembly to ensure safety. Refer to your Breville Bambino Plus user manual for specific disassembly instructions to avoid damaging sensitive components.
Breville BEC250 Espresso Machine Cleaning Tablets for Breville Models, 8 Pack
OFFICIAL BREVILLE CLEANING TABLETS: Extend your espresso machine's functionality and prolong its life by turning to the brand...
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
Disassemble the Grinder Area
- Turn off and unplug the espresso machine.
- Remove the bean hopper, following your model’s instructions, to access the burrs.
- Carefully detach the burrs using a small wrench or by hand, depending on your model.
- Inspect for any coffee grounds, oil buildup, or debris blocking the grinder pathway.
Be gentle during this process to avoid damaging the burrs or internal components. If your grinder has a removable tray or chute, clean it thoroughly.
Clean the Grinder Components
Use a soft brush or a cloth to remove coffee residue from the burrs and internal pathways. For stubborn buildup, soak the parts in warm water with a small amount of Breville cleaning tablets or use a dedicated espresso machine cleaning solution. Avoid using harsh chemicals that could damage the machine.
If the burrs are worn or damaged, consider replacing them with compatible parts to restore grinding efficiency.
Reassemble and Test the Machine
- Reattach the burrs securely and replace the bean hopper.
- Refill the hopper with fresh, dry coffee beans—preferably medium grind to avoid oily beans that cause clogging.
- Plug in the machine and run a test grind cycle without coffee to clear any residual debris.
- Observe if the grinder operates smoothly and without blockage.
If issues persist, repeat the cleaning process or consider replacing worn parts. Regular maintenance can prevent future clogging.
Prevent Future Clogging
To minimize clogging, use high-quality, dry coffee beans and grind only the amount needed for each shot. Schedule regular cleaning with espresso machine-specific tablets or cleaning cycles recommended by Breville. Avoid storing coffee beans in humid environments, as moisture can cause beans to become oily and clog the grinder.
Additionally, avoid overfilling the bean hopper and ensure the grind size is appropriate; too fine a grind can increase the risk of clogging.
The Products in This Guide
Breville Bambino Plus
- ✔ Color: Black Stainless
- ✔ Capacity: 64 oz water tank
- ✔ Grind Settings: Adjustable
Breville BEC250 Espresso Machine Cleaning Tablets
- ✔ Size: 8 tablets per pack
- ✔ Usage: For cleaning shower screens and filters
- ✔ Grade: Food-grade
Breville Bambino Plus
The Breville Bambino Plus is a compact, versatile espresso machine that delivers café-quality results at home. Its precision dose control and fast heat-up time make it a favorite among espresso enthusiasts. Regular cleaning and proper use are essential to keep it running smoothly, especially when facing grinder clog issues.
Pros:
- Compact and stylish design
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet
- Precise dose control
- Easy to clean and maintain
Cons:
- Can clog if not regularly maintained
- Requires careful handling during disassembly
- Oily beans can increase clog risk
Best for: Home baristas seeking high-quality espresso with minimal hassle
Not ideal for: Users who prefer very coarse grinding or infrequent use
Bottom line: A reliable espresso machine with excellent features, but requires regular cleaning to prevent grinder clogs.
Breville BEC250 Espresso Machine Cleaning Tablets
Breville BEC250 Cleaning Tablets are specially formulated to remove coffee oils and residues, helping prevent grinder clogs and maintain the machine’s performance. Regular use ensures your espresso remains fresh and flavorful.
Pros:
- Safe and food-grade ingredients
- Easy to use
- Extends machine lifespan
- Effective at removing oils
Cons:
- Requires regular purchase
- Not a substitute for thorough descaling
- Limited to cleaning cycle use
Best for: Routine maintenance of Breville espresso machines
Not ideal for: Deep descaling or fixing severe clogging without cleaning
Bottom line: A safe, effective cleaning tablet that prolongs your Breville espresso machine’s life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my Breville espresso machine keep clogging?
Clogging usually occurs from oily or stale coffee grounds, improper grind size, or infrequent cleaning which causes buildup of residues in the grinder pathway.
How often should I clean the grinder and burrs?
It’s recommended to clean the grinder and burrs at least once a month, or more frequently if you use oily beans or notice slower grinding.
Can I use regular cleaning tablets for my grinder?
It’s best to use specially designed espresso machine cleaning tablets like Breville BEC250 or replacement cleaning tablets to ensure safe and effective cleaning.
What should I do if cleaning doesn’t fix the clog?
If cleaning doesn’t resolve the clog, inspect the burrs for damage, replace worn parts, and consider contacting Breville customer support for further assistance.
Are oily beans the main cause of clogging?
Yes, oily beans can cause residues to build up more quickly, leading to clogs. Using dry, medium-roast beans helps prevent this issue.
Keep Your Breville Espresso Machine Running Smoothly
Regular maintenance is key to preventing grinder clogs and ensuring your Breville Bambino Plus continues to produce delicious espresso. By following safe disassembly and cleaning procedures, using appropriate cleaning products, and avoiding oily beans, you can extend the lifespan of your machine and enjoy consistent, high-quality coffee every time.
Remember, when in doubt, consult your user manual or contact Breville support for guidance. A well-maintained espresso machine will reward you with years of excellent performance and rich, flavorful coffee.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
