Before Use
- Before using the coffeemaker for the first time, do dissemble the pot to check all the parts are present as per the diagram below, and to wash all the parts in warm water.
- We recommended that you throw away the first 2-3 brews.
- It’s really important that you don’t use the handle while unscrewing as this can cause the handle to break.
Cleaning
- When cool separate the top section from the base, wash in warm water and dry thoroughly.
- It’s best not to use detergent when washing the aluminum models as it can taint the aluminum and therefore the coffee. However, mild detergent can be used to clean the stainless steel models if you prefer, and a liquid chrome polish can be used to keep the stainless steel looking new.
- Do not use steel wools or abrasive products as these will discolour or damage the surface
of the pot and its parts. - Periodically clean the inner sides of the column in the top part of the pot (5) ensuring no build up of coffee residues.
- Do not reassemble until all parts are completely dry to avoid oxidation
- Bialetti stovetop espresso makers must not be put in the dishwasher.
Tips/Precautions
- After use, your Bialetti will be hot, naturally causing the metal to expand and difficult to unscrew the base (1) from the top (5). If you wish to re-use immediately to make another brew, a tip is to run the entire pot under cold water first to cool and make unscrewing easier.
- Check the funnel, filter plate, and ring for wear and tear or damage and replace as required.
- From time to time discolouration or a white deposit may form inside the base. This is generally due to the pot not being properly dried prior to storage, causing the aluminum to naturally oxidise. Scrub with your dish brush in a mixture of warm water and white vinegar to help remove stains. Remember to dry thoroughly.
- It’s best to store all parts separately to allow air to circulate.
- Never place the coffeemaker on a heat source without water.
- Use a medium-fine grind of your favourite coffee blend. A medium-fine will feel gritty when rubbed between your fingers, not powdery. (Note that a espresso grind purchased from a store for electric espresso machine's is typically too fine and may block your Bialetti).
- Do not use extracts, infusions or instant coffee as they may block the filter plate.
- Your Bialetti pot is designed to be used with full measures of water and coffee, and will not work properly, for instance, if you only half fill the pot with water and coffee. Moka aficionados usually have 3 or 4 different size pots in their kitchen!
Spare Parts
A full range of spare parts are available from this website or your Bialetti stockist including:
- Rings
- Funnels
- Filter plates
- Knobs
- Handles. A replacement handle (Moka Express only) can be fitted for a small charge. Please contact us or your Bialetti stockist to arrange this service.
Product Warranty
- All Bialetti products carry a two year manufacturing warranty. This explicitly excludes replacement of parts subject to normal wear and tear.