The Chemex coffee maker is a manual pour-over coffee brewing device that was invented by German chemist Dr. Peter Schlumbohm in 1941. It is a non-electric coffee maker that consists of an hourglass-shaped glass flask with a wooden collar and leather tie. The Chemex coffee maker is known for its simple and elegant design, as well as its ability to brew a clean and flavorful cup of coffee.
The Chemex coffee maker is easy to use and clean, it is also visually appealing, making it a great addition to any kitchen. It’s a great option for coffee enthusiasts who want to brew a high-quality cup of coffee at home. The Chemex also gives you more control over the brewing process, allowing you to experiment with different grinds, water temperature and pouring techniques to achieve a perfect cup of coffee.
The Chemex Coffee Maker
If you’ve ever used glass to make coffee like in a standard coffee machine, you’d know that it gets pretty gross and the Chemex is no different. Water stains from hard water, or generally stains from making coffee can be a pain to remove. Since the Chemex is oddly shaped it can make cleaning a bit tricky too. In this guide, we’re going to explain How To Clean a Chemex Coffee Maker the right way, along with some tips on keeping the wood and the finish looking just like it did on day one.
Tools For Cleaning The Chemex
Here’s what you’ll need to clean the Chemex the right way.
- Bottle Brush: We recommended a Bottle Brush. The key is that you get something that’s got some flex in the handle to reach the full circumference of the base. After all reaching in with a bare hand is dangerous and can cause the glass to break.
- Descale Solution: Only needed if you live in a region with hard water. Descale solution is going to help get the limescale crud off.
- Food Safe Wood Polish: This is best for the wood collar and other wood utensils to hydrate the wood while sealing it from water and grit.
How To Clean a Chemex
Cleaning a Chemex coffee maker is a straightforward process that ensures the longevity and optimal performance of the brewing equipment. The first step is to carefully remove the wooden collar and tie it off, setting it aside for later. Then…
Step 1: Rinse the carafe and filter.
After each use, simply rinse the carafe and filter with warm water. This will remove any loose coffee grounds and prevent build-up of coffee oils and mineral deposits.
Step 2: Deep clean.
If you notice any build-up of coffee oils or mineral deposits, you can give your Chemex a deep clean. To do this, follow these steps:
- Fill the carafe with equal parts white vinegar and water.
- Let the solution sit for 30 minutes to an hour.
- Rinse the carafe with warm water.
- You can use descale solution if hard water is difficult to remove.
- Scrub the carafe and filter with a soft sponge or brush.
- Rinse again with warm water.
- Dry the carafe and filter with a clean towel.
Step 3: Dry the carafe and filter.
It’s important to dry your Chemex thoroughly after each use. This will help to prevent the growth of mold and bacteria. To dry your Chemex, simply wipe it down with a clean towel. You can also place it in a dish rack to air dry.
Step 4: Treat the wood carefully
The bamboo wood collar around the Chemex is typically a polished and tied with a leather tie. The big thing is to avoid getting the wood wet. Do not let it soak! The finish will begin to breakdown and discolor, so always clean it carefully. What you can do is use a moist cloth to gently wipe the wood. If the finish has begun to break down you can use a Wood Polish like TooGet which is a non-toxic and food safe wax that will help seal the wood against dirt and water. If the wood is rough you can also sand it slightly with a super fine sandpaper like 400 grit. This stuff is great and you can use it on any of your wood utensils if they’ve dried out, it will extend their lives as well. You can even use a little on the leather to keep it hydrated.
Step 5: Store your Chemex properly.
When you’re not using your Chemex, it’s important to store it properly. To do this, simply place it in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing your Chemex in direct sunlight or near heat sources.
By following these simple steps, you can keep your Chemex clean and in good condition for years to come.
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, the cleaning process for a Chemex coffee maker is relatively simple and straightforward. The most important thing to keep in mind is that the Chemex should be cleaned after every use to prevent any buildup of coffee oils or sediment. The wooden collar and leather tie can be wiped down with a damp cloth, while the glass flask should be washed with warm soapy water and rinsed thoroughly. It’s important to note that the Chemex coffee maker should not be washed in the dishwasher, as the high temperatures and harsh detergents can damage the glass and wooden components. Overall, the Chemex coffee maker is an elegant and easy-to-use device that makes a delicious cup of coffee, with a simple and regular cleaning process, it will last for years and give you an excellent coffee experience every time.