How To Use a Nespresso Machine

No one can deny that Nespresso boasts some sophisticated coffee makers. In fact, Nespresso invented pod machines so that espresso could be enjoyed by everyone, even those at home, with little effort.

Even though Nespresso coffee makers are simple, I had a minor panic attack the first time I used one. To spare you similar shame, I’ve compiled this in-depth, step-by-step guide that will show you how to use a Nespresso machine with ease.

So, ditch the instruction manual (they’re boring anyway), and let’s get right into the nitty-gritty.

Here’s what you can look forward to in this Nespresso how-to:

• Same same but different: Nespresso’s OriginalLine versus VertuoLine
• But first coffee: Understanding Nespresso pods
• How to clean a Nespresso machine for the first time
• How to use a Nespresso machine
• Maintenance: How to clean a Nespresso machine
• Top tips for Nespresso brewing

Same Same But Different: Original Versus Vertuo

When it comes to your Nespresso machine, how to use it largely depends on what type of Nespresso coffee maker you have. So the first thing you should know is that there are two Nespresso ranges: OriginalLine and Vertuo. Operation is extremely similar between the two, but there are mechanical differences that determine what you can and can’t do with your machine.

Let’s take a closer look at each.

Nespresso’s OriginalLine

The classic Nespresso range emphasizes authenticity, affordability, and accessibility. Though it’s a pod machine, it utilizes pressure-based extraction — honoring true espresso machines. There are a few premium OriginalLine models, but generally speaking, they are simpler and cost less than Vertuo models.

For hopeful home baristas, these machines are chunkier but have more features, a highlight being the built-in milk frother that’s found on almost, if not all, Vertuos.

Last, but not least, the OriginalLine compatible pods offer users a tad more flavor variety than those made for Vertuo units.

Fun fact: Nespresso has collaborated with both Breville and De’Longhi to offer users luxurious (but affordable) pod espresso makers that brew its proprietary pods.

The VertuoLine

If the OriginalLine focuses on authenticity, the VertuoLine is all about modernity, convenience, and style. Virtuos make use of what the brand calls ‘centrifusion technology.’ Here, rather than applying heat and pressure, Virtuos extract flavor by pumping hot water into a capsule and then spinning it at up to 7000 rotations per minute. Watch this video to see it in action:

Virtuos are quieter than OriginalLine models, and for all intents and purposes, are easier to use as they’re largely automatic. You won’t find included frothers here, but you will get more sophisticated technology. The ace of the Nespresso VertuoLine is that these machines include barcode readers that will automatically optimize settings according to the pod you are using.

Speaking of which, Virtuos sacrifice some flavor options in exchange for variety in brew type and size. OriginalLine models make espresso and only espresso shots. Virtuos can brew longer Americano coffees too, for instance.

But First, Coffee: Understanding Nespresso Pods

If like me, you thought that there’s nothing to coffee pods, you may want to sit down for this section. Other manufacturers may keep things simple, but Nespresso has an entire pod system that you should familiarize yourself with before you get to brewing.

Before we get into your flavor options, keep in mind that OriginalLine pods have the classic pointed cylinder shape while Vertuo capsules are recognizable by their dome shape. Because of the different extraction methods, OriginalLine pods are not compatible with Vertuos and vice versa.

A big part of understanding how to use a Nespresso machine is gauging which pods suit your tastes. I know a few people who give Nespresso a bad rap because the coffee is “too bitter”, but I can assure you it’s not.

Each Nespresso capsule has a unique flavor profile, and there are more than 50 available. But don’t worry, you don’t have to sample every single one. I’ve broken it down for you.

The following tables include the intensity and aroma profile — as described by Nespresso — of each pod. The higher the number, the stronger the profile. Note that intensity does not detail caffeine content, but boldness.

OriginalLine Capsules

There are six OriginalLine capsule ranges, each with its own specific pods that are available in three sizes: 0.85 ounces (ristretto), 1.35 ounces (espresso), and 3.7 ounces (lungo).

The Intenso Range

The Espresso Range

The Lungo Range

The Decaffeinato Range

The Master Origin Range

The Barista Creations Range

VertuoLine Capsules

As with the OriginalLine, there are six Vertuo capsule ranges, but here you can choose between espresso or Americano coffee. The former is available in three sizes: 1.35 ounces (espresso), 2.7 ounces (double espresso), and 5 ounces (gran lungo). The latter is available in 7.77-ounce pods (coffee) or 14-ounce pods (Alto XL).

Alto

Mug

Gran Lungo

Espresso

Double Espresso

Variations

How To Clean a Nespresso Machine for the First Time

Phew! That was a lot to take in. You’ve officially earned a nice cup of coffee. However, if your Nespresso machine is fresh out of its box, you shouldn’t jump right in. Before you learn how to use a Nespresso machine by making coffee with it, you need to give your new baby a rinse.

Have you ever purchased a new coffee maker or kettle, used it straight out of its packaging, and noticed that your coffee is tainted with an almost electrical flavor? As mouth-watering as that sounds, those are BPAs that leak from fresh plastics and they’re bad for you.

While manufacturers aren’t as primitive as they once were and BPA plastics are starting to fall by the wayside, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Besides, your new Nespresso will likely carry traces of dust, and you should give it some TLC before your first use regardless of whether it’s BPA-free or not.

There’s no harm in wiping down your new Nespresso machine before you begin. Then, rinse (or wash) the reservoir. Once you’ve replaced it, you can focus on cleaning the inside. Cleaning Nespresso machines for the first time will vary depending on whether it’s OriginalLine or Vertuo. Either way, it’s a simple process that won’t take up much of your time.

First Time Cleaning: Nespresso OriginalLine Machines

1. Plug in your Nespresso.
2. Place a mug below the dispenser to catch your rinsing water.
3. Fill the water tank to capacity.
4. Turn your machine on. The lights will blink for a moment while the machine warms up. Once they’re steady, it’s ready to use.
5. Hit the ‘Lungo’ button. Some reports say to press any of the main buttons. Try it out for yourself!
6. The Nespresso will “brew” the plain water, flushing out any dirt or harmful chemicals in the process.
7. Repeat this two or three times if you like, otherwise dispense and discard your water.

First Time Cleaning: Nespresso VertuoLine Machines

Your first rinse will be slightly different from the method above because VertuoLine machines will recognize that you’re cleaning. Here’s what to do:

1. Plug your Nespresso in.
2. Don’t forget to place your mug so you won’t make a mess.
3. Fill the water tank to capacity.
4. Close the head and switch its lever to “locked”.
5. Push the button on the head three times in quick succession. This will prompt your Nespresso to begin a rinsing cycle.
6. As above, repeat this as many times as necessary. When you’re done, discard your used water.

Now that your Nespresso is spick and span, it’s time to get brewing!

How To Use a Nespresso Machine

Finally, it’s time to make some coffee. To get started, all you need is your machine, some water, a mug, and the machine-appropriate pods of your choice. Depending on the flavor you’ve chosen, and your personal preferences, consider grabbing some milk and sugar too.

Ready? Let’s get started.

Step One: Fill Your Reservoir

Before you brew anything, make sure that your reservoir has enough water in it. You don’t have to fill it to capacity every single time, but doing so will save you trips to the faucet. It’s good practice to keep it filled at least halfway.

Step Two: Set Your Mug and Turn the Machine On

Nespresso machines automatically dispense your joe, so place your mug on the designated tray before you do anything else. Hit the power button to turn it on.

On OriginalLine models, your power button will either be the “Espresso” button or the “Lungo” button. For VertuoLine models, it’s the button that has the coffee mug symbol.

Remember start-up may take a moment. You’ll know that it’s ready to work when the lights are steady and not flashing.

Fun Fact: Some Nespresso models feature adjustable mug trays that you can play around with to set the perfect height for your mug.

Step Three: Inserting the Pod

Here’s where your make comes into play.

If you own an OriginalLine, access your port by pushing its lid up. Place your pod inside. There’s only one way they fit, and that’s generally with the foil seal facing you, but you can gauge how to insert the pods by check the demarcations on the machine.

For VertuoLine machines, turn the lever found on the pod port to unlock it. Lift the head open, and place your pod facedown inside.

Once your pod is in place, close your machine.

Step Four: Optimizing Brew Settings

Depending on the specific model you have, you may be able to program your coffee the way you like it. There are many variations from machine to machine, so I won’t cover them all, but generally speaking, OriginalLine models allow you to choose your cup size. 

Look for buttons that depict coffee cups of varying sizes. Select the one you prefer.

As for Vertuo units, they’re automated and require little intervention. Remember the barcode readers? They’ll come into effect once you’ve added the pod. VertuoLine machines will optimize your brew settings according to your chosen pod without any further input.

On the premium models — particularly Nespresso’s collaborations with Breville and DeLonghi — you may find milk frothing options, brew-strength controls, and temperature dials.

Step Five: Brewing

All that’s left to do is brew your Nespresso. To do this, hit the designated brew button.

On OriginalLine models, this will be the Espresso or Lungo button. For VertuoLines, it’s the same coffee cup button you used to activate your machine. The brewing cycle for either will take a couple of minutes to complete. Your Nespresso machine should have an auto-off function that turns the machine off if it’s idle.

That’s it! Add sugar and milk to taste, and enjoy.

Tip: If you own a VertuoLine machine, you can set your brew size by deliberately disrupting the cycle. This sounds damaging, but Nespresso itself recommends it. Take a look at this official VertuoLine demo to see for yourself:

Bonus: Using the Steam Wand or Milk Frother

If you have an OriginalLine model, you can have a lot of fun (and up your bean game) by making use of the steam wand. Exactly how to do this will depend on your model, but Nespresso has a demo for the Creatista which should paint an accurate picture regardless of your specific device. Check it out:

Unfortunately, VertuoLine models don’t come with frothers included, but you can purchase one separately if you’d like.

Nespresso Aeroccino3 Milk Frother

Maintenance: How to Clean a Nespresso Machine

Another great thing about Nespresso machines is that cleaning up is a breeze. Compared to drip coffee makers and standard espresso machines, maintenance is almost non-existent. Still, there are few steps you should take to keep your machine in working order.

Step 1: After every use, remove and discard your used capsules. Some models have a built-in compartment for this purpose. Otherwise, all you have to do is open your port, take the pod out and dispose of it. Tip: Depending on your location, you may be able to return used Nespresso capsules to the manufacturer for recycling.

Step 2: It’s a good idea to give your machine a wipe down with a damp cloth every so often. While it’s not necessary to do this after every brew cycle, it will keep your machine looking good, and will prevent sticky spots and build up. Don’t forget to wipe down your spill trays!

Step 3: For manual maintenance, the only cleaning you really have to do regularly is washing your water reservoir. Rinse it out, or clean it with dish soap and water to keep it fresh.

Step 4: Some machines have removable capsule containers. If this is the case, remember to give it to wash every now and then. Your machine will appreciate it.

Step 5: If all else fails, follow the instructions above for first-time cleaning to flush your machine.

How to Descale a Nespresso Machine

Sophisticated as these machines may be, they’re not exempt from the tedium of descaling coffee makers, and I can’t tell you how to clean a Nespresso machine without bringing this up (sorry!).

Over time, coffee machines collect minerals, typically calcium and magnesium, that not only interfere with your machine’s mechanics but also alter the taste of your coffee. To solve this issue, routinely clean your machine’s plumbing. Though it’s not difficult to do, it is dull work.

You should descale your Nespresso every three months, or after every 300 capsules — whichever comes first. You will need to invest in a descaling agent, but these are relatively inexpensive and manufacturer-specific.

Nespresso Descaling Solution

Once you’re all set, here’s what to do:

Step 1: Make sure that your machine is off, and that there aren’t any capsules inside.

Step 2: Fill your reservoir with water and the descaling agent. It’s best to follow the instructions on the descaling agent’s packaging, but the general rule is to add one packet of the agent to 28 ounces of water.

Step 3: Run the descaling cycle. I recommend looking this up according to your exact model, but it should be a matter of pushing your power button and lever down together for three seconds, then press the lever on its own, and finally hitting the power button alone. This should jumpstart the descaling process, which takes about 15 minutes to complete.

Step 4: Once it’s stopped, wash your reservoir, fill it with clean water and replace it. Hit the brew button to run a rinse cycle.

Step 5: When you’re finished descaling your machine, exit this mode by once again pushing on the power button and lever at the same time.

Step 6: Leave your machine to dry for at least 10 minutes before you use it again.

Top Tips for Nespresso Brewing

You’ve learned how to use a Nespresso machine and how to care for one. To finish off, here are my top three tips to up your bean game even more.

Recalibrate Your Nespresso Machine

All Nespresso models have pre-programmed serving sizes, but there is a way to override the default. Follow the brewing steps as needed, but instead of hitting the brew button and letting the machine do its own thing, hold the button in until you’re happy with the dispensed amount. The Nespresso will program this, and the next time you want a cuppa, it will automatically recall your preference.

Reuse Your Capsules to Save Money

Nespresso pods are single-use capsules that supposedly only hold enough quality and flavor for one serving. But reusing them won’t kill your machine, and there are multiple accounts that state that round two, although noticeably weaker, was still enjoyable. Give it a try. Your coffee allowance may stretch a lot further. You didn’t hear it from me!

Use Good Water

If you want to make the most of your Nespresso, use filtered or purified water. Not only is it better for your body, but it will enhance your bean’s profile. Since it’s purified water, it may even reduce build-up inside your machine, and descaling won’t be as much of a hassle.

Conclusion

Nespresso machines are nifty brewers that live up to the manufacturer’s mission to enable espresso anywhere. Still, though they’re largely automated, simple machines, there’s a lot to keep in mind when making use of them. The most important takeaway of learning how to use a Nespresso machine is to know your model.

I jumped right in without a clue of what I was doing when I first used a Nespresso machine. It was embarrassing. This guide will ensure that you don’t make that same mistake.

Which Nespresso do you own and have you tried all of the different pods? Got any shameful Human Versus Coffee Machine stories for me? I love hearing from you, so drop a comment!

And don’t forget to share this how-to with others who need it, they’ll appreciate it, and so will I!

Nespresso Machine FAQs

Can I Use Generic Pods in My Nespresso Machine?

It depends on the pods. So long as they are modeled after Nespresso pods — and fit in your machine — you shouldn’t run into any problems.

Can Nespresso Machines Boil Plain Water?

Yes. As referenced in the maintenance sections of this guide, Nespresso machines are able to “brew” and dispense plain water. However, if you’re hoping to use your Nespresso machine to make other warm drinks, like tea or cocoa, you may be better off investing in a kettle. Nespresso machines can boil water, but that’s it besides espresso.

Is Nespresso Stronger Than Regular Coffee?

Yes. Nespresso is a portmanteau of Nestle (the parent brand) and espresso. True to form, most Nespresso shots contain more caffeine than regular coffee. Bear in mind that this depends on the specific pods. Some Nespresso capsules are decaffeinated, while others are for cups of regular coffee rather than a traditional espresso shot.

What Does Lungo on My Nespresso Machine Mean?

Lungo is the Italian word for ‘long’ and designates a longer (aka bigger) shot of coffee.