Transition to Reusable capsules for Nespresso coffee machine It is often seen as a way to save money or reduce plastic waste. Owners of popular coffee brewing systems face the high cost of original servings, which forces them to look for alternatives. The market offers many options from different manufacturers, but not all of them meet the expectations of users.
In this article, we will analyze in detail the real experience of using reusable containers, based on the technical characteristics and reviews of real owners. You will learn about the nuances of grinding, the impact on pump of the machine and the real economy. It is important to understand that the transition to reusable solutions requires changing habits and adjusting cooking parameters.
The main question that worries users is whether such a capsule will harm expensive equipment. The opinions of experts and users vary, but the analysis of designs allows you to highlight the key points that you should pay attention to before buying. Let’s figure out which models really work and which ones are better to bypass.
Types of designs of reusable capsules
All reusable solutions are divided into several types according to the closing principle and the fabrication material. The most common are models with a silicone suction cover and options with a rotary locking system mechanism. The former are cheaper, but require perfect edge cleanliness for tightness.
More complex systems such as Cafiza or SealpodThe lid fixation mechanism is used, which creates a more stable pressure during spilling. This is critical for quality education. cream (foams) on the surface of the espresso. Without enough pressure, the water will pass through the coffee too quickly and the drink will turn watery.
⚠️ Attention: The use of capsules with poor-quality rubber pads can lead to water leaks inside the mechanism of the coffee machine, which is fraught with short circuit.
The material of the body also plays a role. Stainless steel is durable and easy to wash, but some users note a change in taste with prolonged use. Food plastic is lighter, but can absorb odors and wear out faster. The choice depends on the priorities: durability or ease of care.
Impact on the operation of the coffee machine and pump
One of the main fears of Nespresso owners is failure. pump due to the increased resistance of the reusable capsule. The original capsules have an optimized duct system that is difficult to fully reproduce at home. Reusable analogs often create excessive pressure.
If the coffee grinding is too shallow and the capsule sealing is too tight, the pump will have to work with overload. This can lead to premature wear of the mechanism or depressurization of the compounds. However, with the correct selection of the grinding fraction, the risks are minimal.
It is worth noting that modern coffee machines are equipped with pressure relief valves, which reduces the likelihood of breakage. But the regular use of low-quality reusable containers still creates an additional burden on the system. It is important to monitor the purity of the puncture needle and the absence of scale.
Use medium- or medium-grown coffee for reusable capsules to reduce water flow resistance and reduce pump load.
Users who have switched to reusable options often note that the car starts to work a little louder. This is due to a change in the acoustics of the water flow as it passes through another type of filter. If the noise becomes excessive or there is vibration, it is worth checking the density of the coffee.
Comparison of materials: steel versus plastic
When choosing a reusable capsule, the question of the material arises. Below is a comparative table of the main characteristics based on the analysis of popular models in the market.
| Characteristics | Stainless steel | Food plastics (PP/PES) | Aluminum (coated) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Durability | High (10+ years) | Average (2-3 years) | Low (deformed) |
| Thermal conductivity | Tall (quickly cooling) | Low (holds heat) | Medium |
| Effect on taste | Minimum | Maybe with ageing. | Neutral. |
| Gone. | Light (can be in the dishwasher) | It requires caution. | It is not recommended to wash |
Steel capsules, such as: WayCap or Sealpod SteelThey win over their lifetime. They are not afraid of falls and aggressive detergents. However, the metal quickly gives off heat, so the first seconds of the strait can go to the heating of the capsule itself, which sometimes affects the temperature of the first cup.
Plastic models are lighter and cheaper, but may become cloudy or scratched over time. In microscratch can linger coffee oils, which when oxidized give a rancid taste of a new drink. Therefore, plastic capsules require more thorough and frequent washing.
The secrets of grinding and tamping
The quality of the reusable espresso capsule is 80% dependent on the preparation of coffee. You will have to forget about the standard grinding for Turkish or French press. A “golden mean” is needed, close to the factory parameters of the original Nespresso capsules.
The filling process also has its own characteristics:
- ☕ Pour coffee with a slide, without tamping immediately.
- ☕ Use a flat spoon edge or a special knife to level the level.
- ☕ Light tramping is allowed, but do not create a "pill" as for a carob coffee maker.
- ☕ The edges of the capsule should be perfectly clean before closing the lid.
If the coffee passes too quickly and there is no foam, the grinding is too large. If the car is buzzing and barely squeezes drops - too small. Finding the perfect balance can take several brewing cycles. The optimal weight of the bookmark for the capsule Nespresso is 5-6 grams, exceeding this value can violate the tightness.
☑️ Checklist of the perfect bookmark
Economic feasibility of the purchase
The main motivator of switching to reusable capsules is savings. Let's do the math. The cost of one original capsule on average is 35-50 rubles. A pack of good coffee grain weighing 250 grams (about 50 servings) costs about 600-900 rubles.
Thus, the cost of a cup of coffee from grain is 12-18 rubles. The difference is obvious. With active consumption (3-4 cups per day), the payback of a set of 2-3 multi-pod capsules occurs after 2-3 months. For a large family, this period is reduced to one month.
However, time costs should be taken into account. You will have to wash the capsule after each use, dry it and fill it again. It takes 1-2 minutes. If time is more expensive than money, the savings may seem small. If the process of making coffee is a ritual, then reusable capsules will be a great addition.
⚠️ Note: Do not use reusable capsules on the run without a thorough leakproofing check to avoid contamination of the pallet and internal nodes of the coffee machine with slurry.
Real user reviews and problems
Analysis of forums and reviews has revealed several recurring challenges that beginners face. Most often complain about the lack of the thick foam that the original has. This is solved by the selection of a coffee variety with a Robusta content or the use of special additives.
The second problem is the complexity of washing the internal walls. Coffee oils are sticky, and the narrow neck of the capsule is uncomfortable to wash with brush. Many users recommend soaking capsules in a solution of a special decalcination agent or simply in hot water with soda before washing.
The third aspect is compatibility. Some capsules, especially cheap Chinese counterparts, may have slight variations in geometry. At best, the machine won’t close, at worst, the capsule will get stuck in the receiver. Buy proven brands, such as Sealpod, WayCap or Cafiza.
Why can coffee be sour?
Sour taste most often indicates underextraction. The water went through the coffee too quickly. Try grinding a little smaller or increase the density of the tramp. Also, the reason can be low water temperature, if the capsule too quickly gives off heat (typical for steel without preheating).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Will I be exempted from the warranty if I use reusable capsules?
Officially, coffee machine manufacturers (Nespresso, DeLonghi, Krups) recommend using only original consumables. In case of breakdown caused by clogging of the needle or pump by foreign particles due to poor-quality reusable capsule, warranty repair may be denied. However, it can be difficult to prove a causal relationship to a service center if the capsule is not stuck inside.
Can I wash reusable capsules in the dishwasher?
Steel capsules can usually be washed in a dishwasher (top basket). Plastic models and capsules with silicone seals are better washed manually with hot water to avoid deformation from high temperatures and aggressive chemistry.
Which coffee is best for reusable capsules?
The best way to do this is to have fresh, medium-roasted coffee. Dark roasting can give excessive bitterness when reused, and light - sour. Mixtures with the addition of 10-20% Robusta will help to achieve a thicker cream.
Do I need to make a hole in the bottom of the capsule on my own?
No, in high-quality reusable capsules already provided a system of holes or mesh bottom. The piercing occurs automatically with the needle of the car. Self-drilling will break the hydrodynamics and spoil the drink.
Reusable capsules are a great way to save up to 70% of your coffee budget and reduce your environmental footprint, but they require a more careful approach to the process of making and maintaining a coffee machine.