How to Clean an Espresso Steam Wand: Try This EASY Way

Do you know how to clean an espresso steam wand? 

Did you make a delicious latte but you’re not 100% sure how to clean the espresso machine properly including the steam wand? Stick around, I’ve compiled a guide on how to clean this part of the machine to enjoy great cappuccinos and lattes every single time. 

Let’s dive right into it. 

Key takeaways: 

• Why should clean your steam wand frequently
• How a filthy steam wand affect the taste of your coffee
• How often you should thoroughly clean your steam wand 

Why is it vital to keep the wand of your espresso machine clean?

If you don’t clean the wand properly it gets clogged up and (you guessed it) your machine won’t work properly – the pressure of frothing milk will go significantly down and your cappuccino and latte won’t have an evenly made layer of milk.

Bacteria are also developed on surfaces that haven’t been cleaned and spread quite fast; you might face stomach issues if you neglect to clean the milk wand.

On top of all, a latte, cappuccino or any other milky coffee (including iced macchiato) made with a wand that hasn’t been cleaned will taste terrible – who likes spoiled coffee that tastes ‘over-heated milk’.

Did we say anything about the cost of a new wand? 

Because purchasing and having a wand replaced don’t come cheap (they can cost up to $87) it’s wise to look after your machine and maintain it in top condition.   

How to keep your steam wand clean? 

Luckily, there are so many different ways to clean your wand.

First of all, one of the best ways to keep it clean without massive issues is to simply let it run and steam water out for a few seconds right after you’re done with frothing – use a slightly wet cloth to clean the surface of it while it’s still running. This is not the best and most thorough way of cleaning it, but it’s a good practice right after every single use.

The other way you can go about it is to dismantle the wand and give it a good wash. In order to dismantle your wand I suggest you go check the manual booklet that came with the machine. 

To clean 90% of your wand you need to unscrew the end part of it which, in practice, is the one that is submerged in milk every time you’re frothing and use a special wand brush to clean the milk that has built up in it. (You can also learn how to froth half and half).

If you want to thoroughly clean your wand you can unscrew it completely and soak in vinegar for an hour, then wash it with washing-up liquid and put it back on the machine.

Make a note of the order of the parts so it’s easier to reassemble it.

Are there product solutions for cleaning espresso wands? 

Yes, they do exist and some of them are pretty powerful.

One of them is called ‘Puly Milk Frother Cleaner’ and can help clean wands, carafes, valves, and cream dispensers tubes and make them look like brand new. 

How to use this product solution? 

Just submerge the wand for a couple of minutes while the machine is still running. Rinse the wand to get rid of the smell and taste of the product and you’re good to go – you should be ready for your next brew and discover what top espresso tastes like.

Here’s a couple of tips of a coffee lover about cleaning your steam wand: 

To avoid the build up in the first place, always wipe the wand immediately after use with a wet cloth. Next, open the valve and blow steam through it to purge the nozzle before it has a chance to harden. If you still manage to clog the holes, use a needle or a straightened paper clip to open them. Make sure whatever tool you use is not to big for the holes so you do not damage the tip. The Pallo espresso cleaning brush has a pin on the end for this purpose. though the needle or paper clip should work just as well.

– bobcraige

How often should you clean the steam wand?

It’s good to give it a quick clean right after every use.

Just let it run for a few seconds and use a slightly wet cloth to clean the surface. 

Use the above product solution every month to keep it in top condition and make sure every part of it performs to its maximum capacity. 

I know no one likes it, but it’s going to prolong the life of your espresso machine.

That’s an important remark of a coffee aficionado: 

Nothing like scalded milk and other nut or seed squeezings baked onto the wand.

– ViciousKitty72

Does vinegar damage espresso machines?

Yes, it can potentially damage your machine especially parts like the rubber gaskets and seal. Plus, it’s not easy to get rid of its smell and taste completely. If you find them offputting, I suggest you don’t use vinegar to clean your espresso and your wand. 

How should you clean the steam wand if it has a build-up of milk on it

One of the above solutions will do, especially the product solution will do a great job for you. Whichever solution you go for, it’s wise to spend a couple of minutes skimming though the instructions to use the product the right way and keep your espresso machine clean. 

How do you get burnt milk off a steaming wand?

To remove burnt milk on the surface of your wand, use a wet cloth. If the problem persists use go for another round till the milk is completely cleaned. 

Let’s wrap it up 

You have every good reason now to keep your espresso machine clean and in great condition and especially the wand to brew delicious lattes, macchiatos and cappuccinos every single time. Do you know how to clean your Marzocco machine?