Espresso machine backflushing: the correct weekly routine

What it achieves

Backflushing pushes water (then detergent) through the group to clear coffee oils from the 3-way valve and paths — it does not replace daily portafilter cleaning.

Short sequence

1. Blind portafilter with a half-dose of approved group cleaner.
2. Run 5–8 seconds, stop, repeat 4–5 times.
3. Empty and rinse, then water-only cycles until foam and smell are gone.
4. Flush with an empty normal portafilter before the first customer drink.

Common mistakes

Household cleaners eat gaskets. Skipping the water rinse ruins the first morning drinks. Do not backflush home machines with different designs unless the maker allows it.