Comprehensive Guide to Cleaning and Descaling Nespresso Vertuo Machines

This guide compiles all the information you need to clean, descale, and maintain various Nespresso Vertuo machine models, including Vertuo, VertuoLine Evoluo, Vertuo Plus, and Vertuo Next. The process ensures optimal performance and a perfect cup of coffee every time. Follow these detailed steps carefully for effective maintenance.

Identifying the Need for Descaling

Nespresso machines feature descaling alerts:

• Vertuo: The light becomes green and red simultaneously.
• VertuoLine Evoluo: The light blinks alternately three times before becoming steady.
• Vertuo Plus: The brew button flashes red and green.
• Vertuo Next: The coffee button blinks alternately orange and white three times.

These alerts indicate that descaling is required. You can make only a few more coffees before descaling becomes mandatory.

 

Cleaning the Machine

Cleaning Cycle for All Models

1. Prepare the Machine:
   • Remove the cup holder, capsule holder, and drip tray (if applicable).
   • Rinse and clean the water tank and lid. Fill the tank with clean water.
   • Place a large container (at least 1 liter) under the coffee outlet.
   • Open the machine head and eject any used capsules.
2. Starting the Cleaning Cycle:
   • Vertuo Next: Close the lid and turn the handle to the locked position.
   • Press the coffee button three times within two seconds to begin.
   • The cleaning process runs automatically for seven minutes, pumping clean water through the machine.
   • The light will appear steady once the process is complete.
3. Rinse Cycle (if applicable):
   • Press the coffee button once to begin a rinse cycle.
   • The machine will run clean water through and stop automatically.

Note: Do not use strong or abrasive cleaning agents during this process.

Preparing for Descaling

1. Gather Supplies:
   • A container that holds at least 1 liter.
   • Nespresso descaling solution.
   • Fresh potable water (0.5 liters for descaling and 1 liter for rinsing).
2. Initial Steps:
   • Remove and empty the capsule container, drip tray, and water tank.
   • Fill the water tank with one unit of descaling liquid and 0.5 liters of water.
   • Avoid contact with eyes and skin while handling the solution.

 

Entering Descaling Mode

 

General Instructions for All Models

1. Power On the Machine:
   • Turn on the machine by pressing the button.
   • Wait for the light to stop blinking and turn steady (indicating it is ready).
2. Enter Special Functions Menu:
   • Press and hold the lever and button simultaneously for three seconds (Vertuo Plus and Vertuo Next).
   • For VertuoLine Evoluo, hold the button for seven seconds to activate descaling mode.
3. Locking and Unlocking:
   • Lock the machine by turning the lever left to the lock symbol.
   • Unlock it by turning the lever back to the unlocked position.
4. Activate Descaling:
   • Hold the button for at least seven seconds until the light blinks rapidly.

 

Starting the Descaling Process

1. Place a container under the coffee outlet.
2. Lock the machine by turning the lever to the left.
3. Press the coffee button to start the descaling process. The light will blink during the entire process.
4. The machine will stop and start automatically, making various noises as it runs the solution through its system.
5. Descaling takes approximately 20 minutes and cannot be interrupted.

 

Rinsing the Machine

1. Once descaling is complete, empty the container and rinse the water tank thoroughly.
2. Refill the tank with fresh drinking water and place it back.
3. Press the coffee button to start the rinse cycle. This phase runs clean water through the machine and stops automatically.
4. Repeat the rinse cycle if necessary to ensure all descaling solution is flushed out.

 

Exiting Descaling Mode

1. Press and hold the button and lever simultaneously for at least three seconds.
2. The light will stop blinking and become steady (VertuoLine Evoluo).
3. For Vertuo Next, the light will flash green, indicating the machine is warming up.
4. Turn off the machine and let it cool down for 10 minutes.

 

Final Maintenance Steps

1. Empty the System (Vertuo Next):
   • Empty the water tank, capsule container, and drip tray.
   • Place a container under the coffee outlet.
   • Press and hold the coffee button while plugging the power cord back in.
   • The machine will empty itself within 30 seconds and turn off automatically.
2. Reassemble the Machine:
   • Reattach the capsule holder, drip tray, and water reservoir.
   • If moved, return the machine to its original location.
3. Let the Machine Dry:
   • Allow the machine to dry for 10 minutes before using it.

 

Maintenance Tips

• Descale your Nespresso machine every three months or after 300 capsules, whichever comes first.
• Always clean the machine regularly to maintain its performance and coffee quality.
• Avoid using abrasive cleaners to protect the machine’s internal components.

 

Conclusion

Your Nespresso machine is now clean, descaled, and ready for use. Enjoy the ultimate coffee experience with your perfectly maintained machine. For further assistance, visit Nespresso.com.