Cleaning the Barista Express grinder burrs
Because the grinder is built in, keeping the conical burrs clean is part of owning this machine. Oils and fines build up and slow the grind; a dry brush (and occasional tablets) keep it consistent.
Monthly, or whenever the grind slows or clumps
Check your manual: Follow the burr-removal and cleaning steps in your Barista Express manual; the built-in grinder is the part that most affects grind consistency over time.
Step by step
- Empty the hopper and run the grinder briefly to clear beans from the chute.
- Remove the upper conical burr by twisting its handle counter-clockwise, and lift it out.
- Brush oils and fines off both burrs and the chute with a dry brush - never use water on the burrs, which can rust them.
- Refit the upper burr, lock it back into position, and run a small amount of beans through to re-prime.
- Never put water on the burrs - moisture rusts them. Brush dry, and use grinder tablets for dark, oily roasts.
What you'll need
- Dry grinder-cleaning brush
- Grinder-cleaning tablets (for oily roasts)
See the Breville Barista Express upgrade guide →
Breville Barista Express maintenance questions
How often should I perform cleaning the barista express grinder burrs?
Use the cadence above as a planning reminder, then follow the Breville Barista Express manual because water hardness, usage, model revision, and machine alerts can change the interval.
Can I substitute a different cleaning procedure or product?
Do not assume procedures are interchangeable. Follow the burr-removal and cleaning steps in your Barista Express manual; the built-in grinder is the part that most affects grind consistency over time.