Maintaining your Breville Barista Pro is essential to ensure it produces the best espresso and operates smoothly over time. Regular cleaning removes coffee oils, residue, and mineral buildup, which can affect flavor and machine efficiency. This guide offers clear, step-by-step instructions to help you clean your machine safely and effectively.
Following these procedures will extend your machine’s lifespan and keep your coffee tasting fresh and delicious.
Key Takeaways
| Regular Cleaning is Crucial | Prevents oil and residue buildup for better flavor and machine longevity. |
| Use Proper Cleaning Products | Always opt for official or compatible cleaning tablets to avoid damage. |
| Descale Periodically | Remove mineral scale to maintain optimal water flow and temperature. |
| Follow Safety Precautions | Unplug before cleaning and avoid harsh abrasives. |

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...
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
Gather Your Cleaning Supplies
- Breville-approved cleaning tablets (e.g., Breville BEC250 or Replacement Espresso Cleaning Tablets)
- Fresh water
- Soft cloths or sponges
- Descaling solution (if needed)

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.
Turn Off and Unplug the Machine
Before cleaning, turn off your Breville Barista Pro and unplug it from the power outlet. Allow it to cool for at least 15 minutes to prevent burns or electrical hazards.
Clean the Portafilter and Filter Basket
- Remove the portafilter and rinse it under hot water.
- Use a soft brush or sponge with mild detergent to scrub away coffee oils.
- Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft cloth.
Run a Cleaning Cycle
- Place a cleaning tablet into the included or compatible cleaning device as per instructions.
- Insert the portafilter into the group head.
- Follow your machine’s cleaning mode: typically, this involves running water through the group head without coffee, using the cleaning cycle or manual operation.
- Repeat as needed, then rinse with fresh water to clear residual cleaning agents.
Descale the Machine
If your machine signals descaling is needed, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to run a descaling solution through the water system. This removes mineral buildup and maintains water flow.
The Products in This Guide

Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
- ✔ Weight: Not specified
- ✔ Dimensions: Not specified
- ✔ Power: Not specified

Breville BEC250 Espresso Machine Cleaning Tablets
- ✔ Package Size: 8 tablets
- ✔ Shelf Life: As specified on packaging
- ✔ Storage: Keep in a cool, dry place
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR

The Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR offers excellent coffee quality, but regular cleaning is essential for optimal performance. Following proper cleaning routines with approved products extends the machine’s lifespan and ensures your coffee always tastes fresh.
Pros:
- Easy to follow cleaning steps
- Compatible with official and third-party cleaning tablets
- Improves coffee flavor
- Prolongs machine life
Cons:
- Requires regular maintenance
- Cleaning tablets can be an ongoing cost
- Descaling may need additional steps
Best for: Maintaining your espresso machine’s performance and flavor
Not ideal for: For those who prefer minimal maintenance or infrequent cleaning
Bottom line: Consistent cleaning keeps your Breville espresso machine performing at its best.
Breville BEC250 Espresso Machine Cleaning Tablets

Using Breville BEC250 Espresso Machine Cleaning Tablets ensures thorough cleaning of oils and residues, helping your machine perform consistently. Easy to use and formulated for safety, these tablets are a great investment for regular maintenance.
Pros:
- Official Breville product
- Effective removal of coffee oils
- Safe and food-grade ingredients
- Easy to dissolve
Cons:
- Requires regular purchase
- Limited to compatible models
- Single-use per tablet
Best for: Regular cleaning and oil removal
Not ideal for: For users seeking a multi-purpose cleaning solution
Bottom line: Official cleaning tablets ensure your Breville remains in top shape.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I clean my Breville Barista Pro?
It’s recommended to clean the machine every 1-2 months, depending on usage frequency.
Can I use any cleaning tablets for my Breville?
Use official Breville cleaning tablets or compatible third-party tablets designed specifically for espresso machines.
Is descaling necessary?
Yes, descaling removes mineral buildup and should be done periodically, especially if your water is hard.
Are there any safety precautions I should follow?
Always unplug the machine before cleaning, avoid harsh abrasives, and use only approved cleaning products.
Keep Your Breville in Prime Condition
Regular cleaning of your Breville Barista Pro ensures it produces the best espresso possible and lasts for years. By following these simple steps and using recommended products, you can maintain optimal performance and enjoy fresh, flavorful coffee every time.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.