Maintaining your Breville Barista Pro is essential for ensuring top espresso quality and extending its lifespan. Regular cleaning prevents buildup of coffee oils, scale, and impurities that can affect taste and machine efficiency.
Follow this straightforward guide to keep your espresso machine in prime condition, using safe and effective methods tailored to your appliance.
Key Takeaways
| Regular Cleaning | Prevents oil and residue buildup, ensuring better flavor. |
| Use Proper Products | Breville-approved cleaning tablets and filters optimize cleaning. |
| Descale Periodically | Removes mineral buildup to maintain water flow and temperature. |
| Handle with Care | Always follow safety instructions when cleaning. |

Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR, Black Truffle
The Breville Barista Express delivers third wave specialty coffee at home using the 4 keys formula and is...
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Gather Your Supplies
- Breville cleaning tablets (recommended: BEC250)
- Water filters (optional but recommended)
- Clean, soft cloths
- Fresh water

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...
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Turn Off and Prepare the Machine
- Switch off your Breville Barista Pro and unplug it.
- Allow it to cool if recently used.
- Remove the portafilter and drip tray.
Clean the Portafilter and Shower Screen
- Remove the filter basket and rinse it under warm water.
- Use a damp cloth to wipe the shower screen and group head.
- For thorough cleaning, use a cleaning tablet dissolved in water if needed.
Descale the Machine
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for descaling with a solution of descaling tablets and water. Typically, run the solution through the machine, then rinse with fresh water to clear residues.
Replace or Clean Water Filters
Remove old filters from the water reservoir and replace with new Breville charcoal filters or compatible options. Rinse new filters before installation and regularly replace every 2 months.
The Products in This Guide

Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
- ✔ Power: 1680W
- ✔ Pressure: 15 bar
- ✔ Water Filter: Included

Breville BEC250 Espresso Machine Cleaning Tablets
- ✔ Formulation: Non-corrosive
- ✔ Shelf Life: 2 years
- ✔ Package Size: 8 tablets
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR

The Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR offers excellent performance and durability. Proper cleaning ensures it continues to deliver third wave specialty coffee at home with rich flavor.
Pros:
- Integrated grinder for fresh grounds
- Pre-infusion for balanced extraction
- Durable build quality
- User-friendly interface
Cons:
- Requires routine maintenance
- Descaling needed periodically
- Initial setup may be complex
Best for: Home baristas seeking professional-quality espresso
Not ideal for: For users who prefer minimal maintenance or infrequent use
Bottom line: A reliable espresso machine that benefits from regular cleaning for best results.
Breville BEC250 Espresso Machine Cleaning Tablets

Using Breville BEC250 cleaning tablets ensures thorough removal of coffee oils and residues, helping maintain optimal flavor and machine longevity.
Pros:
- Official Breville product
- Dissolves quickly
- Safe for machine components
- Prolongs machine life
Cons:
- Requires regular purchase
- Only for cleaning cycles
- Not a descaler
Best for: Routine cleaning between deep cleans
Not ideal for: For descaling mineral buildup, use descaling products
Bottom line: Official tablets simplify and enhance your cleaning routine.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I clean my Breville Barista Pro?
It is recommended to clean the portafilter and group head daily and perform a descaling cycle every 2-3 months, depending on water hardness.
Can I use regular cleaning agents instead of Breville tablets?
It’s best to use Breville-approved cleaning tablets to ensure compatibility and avoid damage. Regular detergents may harm internal components.
How do I know when to replace the water filter?
Replace the charcoal water filter every 2 months or when you notice a change in water taste or flow.
Is descaling necessary if I use filtered water?
Yes, descaling is still recommended periodically since minerals can accumulate regardless of water quality, especially in hard water areas.
Keep Your Breville Barista Pro in Top Shape
Regular cleaning and maintenance are key to enjoying consistently great espresso from your Breville Barista Pro. Use proper cleaning products, follow safety steps, and stay on schedule to prolong your machine’s life and flavor quality.
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