Coffee machines, kettles, microwaves and countertop equipment

Coffee machines, kettles, microwaves and countertop equipment: descaling and care.

Common failure modes

Decide which containers and coverings may be used in a microwave ovenThis page is a quick reference for what goes in a microwave oven safely and what does not — the everyday question of whe
How to clean a microwave and check if the door and seal are damagedA microwave oven is easy to clean, and once a year or so it is worth a proper look at its door. The cavity, the door and
How to backflush an espresso machine group head and clean the portafilter basketBackflushing pushes water back through the group head to clean the valve and the shower screen of built-up coffee oil, u
How to descale a coffee maker, and whether you can use vinegarLimescale builds up inside any machine that heats water, and in a coffee machine it shows up as slower brewing, a cooler
How to descale a kettle, and whether vinegar is safe to use in itLimescale is the chalky white crust that grows on the bottom of a kettle in a hard water area. It slows the boil, raises
How to descale a steam iron and stop it spitting brown waterScale builds inside any appliance that boils water, and in an iron it announces itself the worst possible way: brown wat
How to fix a stand mixer that leaves flour in the bowl or hits the bowl with the beaterA stand mixer beater that sits too high leaves flour and butter unmixed at the bottom of the bowl. A beater that sits to

Opening a microwave oven cabinet is never covered.