Just How Exactly Do You Clean A Percolator?

Percolators are funny brewers. They are hands-off and seem to operate by magic.

So you just put it on the stove and wait for coffee? Who knows how that works? (I do, and I’ll explain.)

But the question that normally follows is: how to clean a percolator?

The two main ways to clean a percolator are by using baking soda and cream of tartar or using a mixture of vinegar and warm water.

In this article, let’s explore the two main ways you can clean your percolator and why regular cleaning cycles are a great idea.

Table of Contents

• What Is A Stovetop Percolator?
• Clean Your Percolator Coffee Pot Using Baking Soda And Cream Of Tartar
• Clean Your Percolator Coffee Pot Using Vinegar
• Why You Should Regularly Clean Your Percolator Coffee Pot
• Helpful Tips For Using And Cleaning A Percolator Coffee Pot

What Is A Stovetop Percolator?

A percolator is a type of coffee pot that uses a percolation process to brew coffee. And honestly, it’s one of my favorite ways to brew coffee.

A percolator typically has a water reservoir at the bottom, a filter basket in the middle for ground coffee, and a spout at the top for pouring brewed coffee. 

The water is heated in the bottom chamber, and hot water is forced up through a tube and into the filter basket where the coffee is. 

As the water passes through the coffee grounds, it absorbs flavor and aroma, creating a brewed coffee that drips back into the carafe. 

The process is repeated until the desired strength of the coffee is achieved. 

You might have heard of stovetop espresso makers like Moka Pot. Moka Pots are essentially the same but have a slightly different look to them.

Some people, like me, prefer the taste of coffee made in a percolator because of its stronger taste and aroma.

Clean Your Percolator Coffee Pot Using Baking Soda And Cream Of Tartar

Cleaning a percolator with baking soda and cream of tartar is a simple process. It’s also very effective.

Here's one way you can do it:

1. Remove any leftover coffee grounds and rinse the percolator with warm water.
2. In a small bowl, mix together a paste using equal parts baking soda and cream of tartar.
3. Apply the paste to the inside of the percolator, focusing on any stains or build-up.
4. Use a sponge or brush to scrub the paste into the surface of the percolator, making sure to reach all areas.
5. Rinse the percolator thoroughly with warm water to remove all of the paste.
6. Finally, fill the percolator with water and bring it to a boil. This will help remove any remaining stains or odors.
7. Once done, empty the water and dry the percolator completely before storing it or using it again.

You can also use this baking soda method for cleaning a coffee pot, and other kitchen tools.

Note: Be sure to check the manufacturer's instructions for your percolator before using this method, as some materials may not be safe for cleaning with baking soda and cream of tartar.

Clean Your Percolator Coffee Pot Using Vinegar

If you don’t have cream of tartar or baking soda, you can use vinegar instead.

You might also want to try using vinegar if you’re looking for a faster or less hands-on method.

Here's one way you can do it:

1. Remove any leftover coffee grounds and rinse the percolator with warm water.
2. Fill the percolator with equal parts water and white vinegar.
3. Place the percolator on the stove and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Once it reaches a boil, turn off the heat and let the mixture sit in the percolator for about 30 minutes.
5. Use a brush or a sponge to scrub the inside of the percolator to remove any stains or build-up.
6. Empty the percolator and rinse it thoroughly with warm water to remove any remaining vinegar.
7. Finally, fill the percolator with water and bring it to a boil again to remove any remaining stains or odors.
8. Once done, empty the water and dry the percolator completely before storing it or using it again.

It’s still a good idea to check the manufacturer’s instructions on deep cleaning your percolator.

Why You Should Regularly Clean Your Percolator Coffee Pot

As with any appliance or coffee brewer, it is important to clean and maintain them regularly.

Percolators, in particular, need regular cleaning- and these are the reasons:

1. Hygiene: A dirty coffee pot can harbor bacteria and other germs that can harm your health. Cleaning it regularly will help prevent the buildup of these harmful microorganisms.
2. Flavor: Over time, coffee oils and residue can build up in the percolator and affect the flavor of your coffee. Regular cleaning will help maintain the quality of your coffee.
3. Longevity: A dirty coffee pot can shorten the life of your percolator. The build-up of minerals and coffee oils can corrode the pot or cause other damage that can affect the percolator's ability to function properly.
4. Aesthetics: A dirty coffee pot can look unsightly and unappealing. Regular cleaning will help keep the percolator looking shiny and new.

By cleaning your percolator regularly, you can ensure that it continues to function properly, make great-tasting coffee, and stay hygienic and visually pleasing.

Besides, a clean coffee maker is a pleasure to brew with first thing in the morning.

Helpful Tips For Using And Cleaning A Percolator Coffee Pot

Here are some helpful tips when cleaning a percolator:

1. Use a mild detergent, dish soap, and warm soapy water to clean the pot. Avoid using abrasive materials or harsh chemicals, which can damage the pot.
2. Descale the percolator regularly. Scale buildup can clog the percolator's tubes and affect the brewing process. The best way is to use an actual descaling solution. Think of a descaling solution as a special cleaning solution for coffee makers. It is normally a powder that gets added to the coffee pot, and then a brewing cycle is run with the solution inside. The descaling solution will clean almost all of the stains and buildup. Just note that you should run a brewing cycle or two without descaling solution after the cleaning cycle to make sure you get a clean cup of coffee the next time you brew.
3. Clean the stem and basket. These parts can accumulate coffee residue and oils, which can affect the taste of your coffee. You can use a brush or a toothpick to remove any buildup.
4. Dry the pot completely before storing it. Moisture left inside the percolator can cause rust or other damage.