10 Common Coffee Brewing Mistakes You Might Be Making

The promise of a delicious cup of coffee in the morning makes getting out of bed a bit more manageable. The aroma that fills the home during the brewing process is both pleasant and invigorating.

However, if you make mistakes while brewing, the outcome can be disappointing or even undrinkable. Whether you opt for an automatic coffeemaker, a single-cup machine, or an espresso maker, it’s no surprise that local coffee shops often produce superior beverages.

By addressing the most common coffee brewing errors, you can bring the barista experience right to your kitchen.

What are the most common coffee brewing mistakes?

While not everyone can invest in the fancy equipment found at local coffee shops, understanding these common coffee brewing mistakes can help you brew the perfect cup. Even seasoned coffee drinkers may find they’re making one of the following errors.

1. You’re using dirty equipment

It’s essential to rinse every component of your coffee-making equipment thoroughly after each use. Make sure there’s no soap or coffee residue left behind. Some brands recommend running vinegar through the coffeemaker for a deeper clean. If you do this, be sure to run 2-3 cycles with pure water afterward to eliminate any cleaning agents. Also, don’t overlook your coffee pot! Tough stains can be removed with a mixture of two tablespoons of baking soda and a half-cup of white vinegar.

2. You have old beans

Coffee beans maintain peak freshness for up to four weeks after roasting. Beyond this period, their flavor profile begins to deteriorate. A fantastic product can lose its quality within just a few weeks. Unfortunately, many grocery stores do not carry fresh beans, and some could already be past their prime if you’re looking for maximum flavor. Therefore, purchasing fresh beans from a trusted online source is a better option to avoid stale and flavorless coffee.

3. You are using pre-ground coffee

Once coffee beans are ground, they become more susceptible to oxidation, regardless of whether they are stored in an airtight container. To ensure freshness, it’s best to grind your beans just before brewing.

4. Your beans aren’t being stored correctly

The main factors that negatively affect coffee are heat, light, moisture, and exposure to air. Retail packaging doesn’t provide adequate protection for beans, especially pre-ground coffee. Once your coffee arrives, store it in an airtight container to minimize oxidation risks, and keep the container in a cool, dark place at home.

5. You kept the grounds in the grinder overnight

To save time in the morning, some people grind their beans the night before. However, even if only the beans are in the grinder, exposure to oxygen can lead to a stale cup the next day. Instead, consider prepping your filter, water, and other elements the night before to streamline your morning routine. This way, you can quickly complete the steps for a great cup of coffee to kick off your day.

6. You’ve ground the coffee to the wrong size

There are various methods for brewing a perfect cup of coffee, and each requires a specific grind size. For standard drip brewing, a medium grind is ideal, while a coarser grind works better for a French press. If the coffee is ground too finely, it often tastes bitter, whereas a grind that is too coarse can result in a mild or weak flavor.

7. You’re using the wrong water ratio

For each cup of coffee you plan to brew, measure about two tablespoons of coffee grounds. Using more than this can lead to a bitter taste or an overly intense beverage. Conversely, using too little can result in a watery, weak cup. Many coffee drinkers prefer a ratio of one tablespoon per six ounces, but it’s best not to go below that.

8. You have an improper water temperature

Using water that’s too hot during brewing can scald the coffee, while water that’s too cold can yield a mild or non-existent flavor profile. The optimal temperature for brewing coffee is around 200°F (93°C). After brewing, it’s also important to keep your coffee at the right temperature for optimal enjoyment.

9. Your water has high mineral content

Impure water can negatively impact even the best coffee, making it taste stale or off. High mineral content alters the flavor profile unpredictably, which is why filtered water is often the best choice for brewing.

10. You use mass-produced coffee

Mass-produced coffees typically undergo dark-roasting processes that can result in a bland cup. While pure robusta varieties are often the worst offenders, mass-produced arabica options can sometimes taste fermented or sour. Opting for higher-quality coffee can significantly enhance your brew.

Avoiding these common coffee brewing mistakes can open up a new world of enjoyment! Once you recognize and eliminate these errors from your home brewing process, you’ll be amazed at how great your morning cup can be.