If your Breville Bambino Plus is experiencing frequent grinder clogs, it can disrupt your espresso routine. Clogs often result from residual coffee oils, stale coffee grounds, or improper maintenance. In this guide, you’ll find clear, step-by-step instructions to resolve this issue safely and effectively, ensuring your machine produces consistent, high-quality espresso.
Key Takeaways
| Regular cleaning is essential | Prevents oil buildup that causes clogs. |
| Use fresh coffee grounds | Old grounds increase the risk of blockages. |
| Check grinder settings | Adjust grind size to prevent over-fine grounds. |
| Clean the grinder burrs | Remove residual grounds and oils. |
| Use recommended cleaning products | Breville cleaning tablets help maintain performance. |

Breville Bambino Plus, Black Stainless Steel
- Third Wave Specialty Coffee: Home brewing with professional results
- Dose Control Grinding: 54mm porta-filter with 19g capacity
- Optimal Water Pressure: Pre-infusion for balanced extraction
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Gather Necessary Tools and Supplies
- Breville Bambino Plus espresso machine
- Breville BEC250 Espresso Machine Cleaning Tablets (or equivalent)
- Soft brush or grinder cleaning brush
- Clean, dry cloth
Turn Off and Unplug Your Machine
Before starting, ensure your espresso machine is turned off and unplugged to avoid any risk of electric shock or damage during cleaning.
Disassemble the Grinder
- Remove the bean hopper from the top of the grinder.
- Take out the burrs according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Use a soft brush to gently clear any coffee grounds or residue from the burrs and surrounding areas.
Clean and Clear Clogged Grounds
Check for any stubborn grounds lodged in the grinder. Use a brush or a toothpick carefully to dislodge blockages. Be gentle to avoid damaging the burrs or mechanisms.
Reassemble and Run a Cleaning Cycle
- Reinstall the burrs and replace the bean hopper.
- Insert a Breville cleaning tablet into the grinder if your model supports it or follow your specific machine’s cleaning procedure.
- Plug in your machine, turn it on, and run a few cycles without coffee to clear residual oils and debris.
The Products in This Guide

Breville Bambino Plus
- ✔ Color: Black stainless
- ✔ Heating System: ThermoJet
- ✔ Pressure: 9 bar

Breville BEC250 Espresso Machine Cleaning Tablets
- ✔ Size: 8 tablets
- ✔ Safety: Food-grade ingredients
- ✔ Compatibility: Breville espresso machines
Breville Bambino Plus

The Breville Bambino Plus combines compact design with professional-grade features, making it ideal for home baristas. Regular cleaning and maintenance are key to preventing grinder clogs and ensuring consistent espresso quality.
Pros:
- Compact and stylish design
- Easy to use and clean
- Consistent grinding results
- Supports regular cleaning with compatible tablets
Cons:
- Requires routine maintenance
- Clogging can occur if not cleaned regularly
- Cleaning process may be time-consuming for some users
Best for: Home espresso enthusiasts seeking reliable performance
Not ideal for: Users who prefer minimal maintenance or infrequent use
Bottom line: Routine cleaning is essential for preventing grinder clogs and maintaining espresso quality.
Breville BEC250 Espresso Machine Cleaning Tablets

Using Breville BEC250 Cleaning Tablets regularly helps to remove coffee oils and residues that cause grinder and brew head clogs, extending your machine’s lifespan.
Pros:
- Official Breville product
- Prolongs machine life
- Easy to use, dissolves quickly
- Safe with pharmaceutical-grade ingredients
Cons:
- Requires purchase of tablets
- Only for cleaning, not descaling
- Must be used regularly
Best for: Maintaining optimal cleanliness and performance
Not ideal for: For users who prefer DIY cleaning solutions
Bottom line: Breville cleaning tablets are a reliable way to keep your machine running smoothly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I clean my grinder to prevent clogging?
It is recommended to clean the grinder and run a cleaning cycle every 1-2 months, especially if you notice slow grinding or inconsistent espresso shots.
Can I use regular coffee grounds to clear a clog?
It’s best to use cleaning tablets or follow manufacturer instructions to clear clogs, as regular grounds may not effectively remove oils or residues.
What should I do if cleaning doesn’t fix the clog?
If cleaning the grinder doesn’t resolve the clog, consider contacting Breville customer support or having a professional service check for mechanical issues.
Are there specific grind settings to prevent clogging?
Yes, using a slightly coarser grind setting can help prevent fine grounds from causing blockages, especially if you experience frequent clogs.
Keep Your Breville Bambino Plus Running Smoothly
Regular maintenance, including cleaning the grinder and using quality cleaning products, is key to preventing clogs and ensuring your espresso machine delivers top-notch coffee every time. Follow these steps consistently, and your machine will reward you with years of reliable performance.
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