How do I clean my espresso machine with no blind filter?

by Becca
(England)

Eleva espresso machine

QUESTION:

Hi,

Love the site! Please may you help with the cleaning of my espresso machine?

I have an espresso and milk frothing machine which I got off a friend a while ago. I have used it happily for some time but have recently realised how gross it might be that I have never properly cleaned it. I have cleaned the parts which come off easily and the water container but not flushed it through with anything. Having done a bit of research online, it seems that I need something called a 'blind filter' which I can then use to backflush the machine with cleaner.

However, it didn't come with a blind filter, only the normal filters used for making coffee. I have tried to find a replacement, but cannot find the brand anywhere online/ amazon/ ebay etc. to get a replacement which fits. Is this the only way to clean the machine or can I just run something through it and let it come out without any filter on?

The name on the machine is Eleva, if that helps at all? Not sure if it is a cheap copy of something or used to be a brand and no longer exists etc. It doesn't seem to exist online!! I have attached a picture in the hope that might be useful. I also worried that backflushing it would break it if it didn't have the right valves etc on as I don't have the instruction manual.

Thanks in advance,

Becca


ANSWER:

Becca, hi

I’ve never heard of that brand of espresso machine, although it looks remarkably similar to an earlier model of Breville espresso machine.

Anyway, I’m hoping that even without the blind filter, you’ll be able to run water through your machine.

If that’s the case, there are a ton of cleaning fluids and tablets you can buy through Amazon .

Alternatively, you can make a 50/50 mix of water and vinegar, and run that through the machine.

Either way, be sure to rinse the insides well by running clean water though the machine a few times before you make your first shot of espresso.

I hope this helps.

Best wishes,

Nick

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