Clean your BUNN coffee maker with reservoir by flushing with vinegar, scrubbing the tank, and rinsing thoroughly.

I’ve cleaned dozens of BUNN machines and reservoirs. This guide explains exactly how to clean Bunn coffee maker with reservoir, step by step. You’ll get safe, tested methods for daily care, weekly cleaning, and deep descaling. I’ll share real tips from hands-on experience, common mistakes to avoid, and simple schedules that keep your coffee tasting fresh. Read on to master cleaning your BUNN and protect its brew quality and lifespan.

Why clean your BUNN coffee maker with reservoir

Cleaning matters for taste and safety. Mineral buildup and old oils change flavor. Mold and bacteria can grow in a damp reservoir. Regular care keeps the machine reliable and coffee tasting its best.

I recommend cleaning the reservoir and brew path often. When you learn how to clean BUNN coffee maker with reservoir, you prevent clogs and extend the machine’s life.

What you’ll need

• Distilled white vinegar or food‑grade descaler
• Clean water (filtered or bottled is best)
• Mild dish soap
• Soft sponge or cloth
• Small brush or bottle brush for corners
• Toothbrush for tight spots
• Funnel (optional)
• Gloves to protect hands

These simple supplies make cleaning fast and safe. Keep them handy so you can clean the reservoir without hunting for tools.

Safety and prep

Turn the machine off and unplug it. Let hot parts cool before you touch them. Remove the carafe and any removable lids or filters. Read your model manual for parts that can go in the dishwasher.

When you learn how to clean BUNN coffee maker with reservoir, always follow model-specific warnings. If any part looks cracked, replace it rather than risk leaks.

Daily and weekly cleaning: easy routine

Daily care keeps minerals and oils from building up.

1. Empty and rinse daily
   1. Dump leftover water and coffee grounds.
   2. Rinse the reservoir and carafe with warm water.
2. Wipe exterior and lid weekly
   1. Use mild soap and a damp cloth.
   2. Clean the lid hinge and spout edge.
3. Clean brew funnel and spray head weekly
   1. Remove the funnel and wash it with dish soap.
   2. Wipe the spray head with a toothbrush.

Following these quick steps helps when you want to know how to clean BUNN coffee maker with reservoir without a full deep clean.

Deep descaling every 2–3 months

Hard water leaves mineral scale. Descaling keeps water flow and temperature steady.

1. Prepare descaling solution
   • Mix equal parts white vinegar and water for a mild solution, or follow package instructions for a commercial descaler.
2. Fill the reservoir
   • Pour the solution into the reservoir up to the max line.
3. Run a brew cycle (or equivalent)
   • Start the BUNN brew cycle so hot solution flows through the system.
   • Some models need repeated cycles until the reservoir is empty.
4. Let it sit
   • Wait 15–30 minutes to let the solution dissolve scale inside lines.
5. Rinse thoroughly
   * Run 2–4 full tanks of clean water through the machine until the vinegar smell is gone.

If you prefer a gentler option, use citric acid: 1–2 tablespoons per quart of water. Always rinse well. Learning how to clean BUNN coffee maker with reservoir properly prevents vinegar residue and keeps coffee flavor neutral.

Cleaning the reservoir: step-by-step detail

The reservoir needs focused attention. Here’s how to clean it safely.

1. Remove reservoir if possible
   • Check the manual. Some BUNN reservoirs lift out easily.
2. Wash with soap and water
   • Use warm water and a small amount of dish soap.
   • Scrub all surfaces with a soft brush.
3. Tackle stubborn mineral spots
   • Use vinegar or a paste of baking soda and water on spots.
   • Let the paste sit 10 minutes, then scrub gently.
4. Clean seams and corners
   • Use a toothbrush to reach under lids and in crevices.
5. Rinse until clear
   • Rinse at least three times with clean water.
6. Dry before reassembly
   • Let parts air dry or wipe with a clean towel to avoid trapped moisture.

From my experience, removing the reservoir when possible makes cleaning faster. If your BUNN model does not allow removal, run cleaning solution through and scrub accessible areas carefully. That’s the practical way to learn how to clean BUNN coffee maker with reservoir without damaging seals.

Maintenance tips and schedule

• Daily
  • Empty and rinse the reservoir each night.
• Weekly
  • Wash the funnel, lid, and carafe.
• Monthly
  • Wipe the spray head and test flow.
• Every 2–3 months
  • Descale the machine and clean the reservoir thoroughly.
• Replace parts as needed
  • Replace gaskets or filters when worn to avoid leaks and taste issues.

A simple calendar reminder helps. Set a phone alert for descaling so you never skip it. Sticking to this routine is key to how to clean BUNN coffee maker with reservoir effectively.

Troubleshooting common problems

• Vinegar smell after cleaning
  • Run extra rinse cycles with fresh water until the smell fades.
• Water flow is slow
  • Descale the machine. Mineral buildup often blocks lines.
• Cloudy or white flakes in water
  • These are mineral deposits; descale and use filtered water.
• Mold or odor in reservoir
  • Clean with vinegar solution and dry completely. Consider replacing a cracked reservoir.
• Leaks after reassembly
  • Check seals and gaskets for proper seating. Tighten parts but avoid over-torquing.

If a problem persists, consult a service technician. Some repairs are best handled by pros to protect the heating element and pump.

Frequently Asked Questions of how to clean bunn coffee maker with reservoir

How often should I descale my BUNN coffee maker with reservoir?

Descale every 2–3 months for hard water and every 4–6 months for soft water. Frequency depends on how much you use the machine and your water hardness.

Can I use vinegar to clean the reservoir?

Yes, white vinegar works well to remove mineral deposits. Rinse thoroughly with multiple full reservoir cycles of clean water to remove any vinegar taste.

Is the reservoir dishwasher safe?

Some BUNN reservoirs are dishwasher safe, but not all. Check your model manual; if unsure, wash by hand to avoid warping or damage.

What if I see mold in the reservoir?

Empty and scrub the reservoir with soap, then sanitize with a vinegar solution or diluted bleach (follow with thorough rinsing). Dry completely before reassembly to prevent return.

Will descaling void my warranty?

Descaling using manufacturer‑approved methods generally does not void a warranty. Avoid harsh acids not recommended for coffee machines and keep records of regular maintenance.

Summary and next steps

Cleaning your BUNN is simple and worthwhile. Regular rinsing, weekly washing, and scheduled descaling keep the machine brewing great coffee. Use vinegar or a commercial descaler for mineral buildup, scrub the reservoir gently, and always rinse well. Start by setting a cleaning schedule today. Try the step-by-step routine above this week and see how much better your coffee tastes. Share your results, ask questions, or subscribe for more appliance care tips.