What descaler should I use for a Nespresso machine?

Nespresso Descaling Kit is the recommended product. Food-safe alternatives like Durgol Swiss Espresso or Oust All Purpose Descaler also work well. Nespresso sells a two-sachet descaling kit; a universal espresso descaler works too. Run the machine's descale mode, then two clean-water cycles.

How often should I descale my Nespresso machine?

Descale every 3 months or 300 capsules — and every 6–8 weeks in hard-water areas if you live in a UK hard-water area.

Nespresso

Best descaler for Nespresso machines

For Nespresso machines (Vertuo, Vertuo Next, Original Pixie, Citiz), the recommended descaler is Nespresso Descaling Kit. Below are cheaper universal options that work too, how often to descale, and a quick step-by-step. Nespresso sells a two-sachet descaling kit; a universal espresso descaler works too. Run the machine's descale mode, then two clean-water cycles.

How to descale a Nespresso machine

1. Empty and prepare

Empty the drip tray and water tank, and remove any water filter.

2. Mix the descaler

Add the descaler to fresh water in the tank at the stated dilution.

3. Run the descale cycle

Start your Nespresso machine's descaling programme and let it run fully.

4. Rinse thoroughly

Run two or three tanks of clean water through to flush all descaler residue before your next drink.

Cheaper universal alternatives

Food-safe descalers that also suit Nespresso machines:

Durgol Swiss Espresso ↗Oust All Purpose Descaler ↗

Other machines

De'Longhi Sage Tassimo Dolce Gusto Jura Krups Philips / Saeco Kettles