How to Use a Drip Coffee Maker

Measuring coffee in grams is the most accurate way to achieve consistent results. However, not all of us want to measure our coffee every time we brew ^_^. So we’ve also included the approximate amounts in coffee scoops for your convenience. If you don’t have a coffee scoop (or coffee spoon) yet, you can grab one here. For a standard drip coffee maker, use the following table as a starting point:

Everyone enjoys coffee differently, so feel free to adjust the amount to suit your taste.

☕ Like it stronger?

Add a little more coffee. For every 2 cups, try adding an extra 3–5 g of coffee (approximately ½ scoop).

☕ Prefer it lighter?

Use a little less coffee. For every 2 cups, reduce the amount by around 3–5 g (approximately ½ scoop).

For a standard automatic drip coffee maker, a medium grind (otherwise called Filter Ground Coffee) is generally the best place to start. An easy comparison is that the texture of the ground coffee is similar to granulated sugar. And the reason this works best is because a medium grind allows the water to flow through the coffee evenly, helping create a balanced and flavourful cup.

Fine Ground Coffee For Filter Machines

If the coffee grind is too fine, the water passes through the coffee slowly, creating a bitter, harsh and dry cup of coffee.

Coarse Ground Coffee For Filter Machines

And if your coffee grind is too coarse, then the water passes through much faster, creating a weaker, thinner and more sour (acidic) cup of coffee.

So if your coffee doesn’t taste quite right, try making small adjustments to your grind size.

Handy Tips for Better Drip Coffee

1. Use Freshly Ground Coffee

For the best flavour and aroma, buy your coffee as whole beans and grind your coffee shortly before brewing whenever possible. Whole coffee beans generally stay fresher for longer than pre-ground coffee.

However, if you don’t want to grind your own coffee, that’s absolutely fine. Simply choose buy a pre-ground filter coffee. For the best flavour, choose freshly roasted coffee and buy only enough to enjoy within approximately 2–4 weeks. This helps ensure your coffee stays fresh and delicious. Trust us, freshness makes all the difference.

For an easy-to-use option, we recommend a manual hand coffee grinder. It’s simple, affordable and allows you to grind your coffee fresh before brewing.

 

2. Use Fresh Water, The Quality Of Water Matters

Coffee is mostly water, so water quality matters. Always use fresh, clean drinking water for the best possible flavour. You can find out more how water quality effects your coffee here.

3. Don’t Leave Coffee on the Hot Plate for Too Long

We’ve all done this. But freshly brewed coffee tastes best when enjoyed soon after brewing. When you leave your coffee sitting on a hot plate for too long the coffee will start to taste bitter or burnt.

4. Try Different Coffees

Not all coffee tastes the same. Different coffee origins, roast levels and beans can produce very different flavours. Try a variety of coffees to discover what you enjoy most. You may prefer something rich and chocolatey, fruity and bright, or smooth and nutty.

5. Keep Your Coffee Maker Clean

Coffee oils and mineral deposits can build up inside your drip coffee maker over time and affect the taste of your coffee. Clean the filter basket and carafe regularly, and descale your machine according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.