What Does “Purge Your Grinder” Mean?
Coffee Grinder Maintenance Explained
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If you’re just starting your coffee journey or diving deeper into the world of specialty brewing, you’ve probably heard the term “purge your grinder.” But what does that actually mean, and why is it important for making great coffee?
Let’s break it down…
What Does “Purge Your Grinder” Mean?
To purge your grinder means to run a small amount of coffee beans through your grinder and discard the grounds before grinding your actual dose for brewing. This is typically done when:
- You’re switching between different types of beans.
- Your grinder has been sitting unused for a while.
- You’ve just adjusted the grind size.
- You’re about to dial in a new espresso shot.
Think of it as a way to clear out old grounds and stale coffee oils that may have been left behind from the previous grind.
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Why Should You Purge Your Grinder?
Even the best grinders retain some amount of coffee between the burrs and the chute. This leftover coffee is called retention, and it can affect the taste and consistency of your next brew. Here’s why purging matters:
1. Ensures Freshness
Old, oxidized coffee particles can make your next cup taste bitter or flat. A quick purge helps you start with only freshly ground coffee.
2. Improves Accuracy
When you’re dialing in espresso or changing your grind size, purging removes old grounds that don’t reflect your new setting—ensuring more precise extraction.
3. Prevents Flavor Contamination
If you’re switching from a fruity Ethiopian to a bold Sumatran, purging helps avoid cross-flavor contamination between beans.
How Much Coffee Should You Purge?
The amount depends on your grinder’s retention. A good rule of thumb:
- Home grinders (like Baratza or Fellow Ode): purge 1–2 grams.
- Commercial espresso grinders: purge 3–5 grams or more.
You can test your grinder’s retention by weighing the input and output of coffee before and after use.
When Should You Purge Your Grinder?
Here are the key times to do a purge:
- ☕ Before making your first coffee of the day
- ⚙️ After adjusting your grind size
- 🔄 When switching coffee beans
- 🧼 After cleaning your grinder
Making purging a habit helps keep your coffee tasting consistent and clean, especially important for espresso lovers.
Bonus Tip: Use the Purge for Compost!
Even though you’re discarding the purge grounds, don’t throw them in the trash. Used coffee grounds are great for composting or even deodorizing your fridge!
Purging your grinder is a small step that makes a big difference in your coffee practice. Keeping your grinder clean and purged helps ensure clarity, freshness, and flavor consistency in every cup.
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