To clean a Keurig with vinegar, follow these steps:
- Remove any water filter from the reservoir and empty it.
- Fill the reservoir about halfway with white distilled vinegar. Some sources suggest a 50/50 mix of vinegar and water; others say fill halfway with vinegar then add water to the top.
- Place a large mug on the drip tray and run the machine without a K-Cup, allowing the vinegar to brew through the system. Discard the hot vinegar.
- Repeat running cycles until the reservoir is empty.
- Refill the reservoir with fresh water. Run multiple cycles with just water to flush out any vinegar residue and taste. Several rinses may be needed.
- Clean removable parts like the K-Cup holder and drip tray with soapy water or dishwasher.
- Wipe down the outside of the machine.
Descaling with vinegar helps remove mineral deposits and break down buildup inside the machine. It’s recommended every 3 months or when the taste changes. Though Keurig also sells special descaling solutions, vinegar is an effective and inexpensive alternative. Allow about 30-45 minutes to fully descale with vinegar, including soak and rinse steps.