If your Breville Bambino Plus espresso machine keeps clogging the grinder, it can be frustrating and disrupt your coffee routine. This issue often stems from accumulated coffee oils, stale beans, or mineral buildup that clog the grinder’s burrs or chute. Fortunately, with proper cleaning and maintenance, you can resolve these problems and restore your machine’s performance.
In this guide, we’ll walk through essential troubleshooting steps, cleaning routines, and preventive measures to fix grinder clogging issues safely and effectively. Whether you’re a casual user or a coffee enthusiast, these tips will help ensure consistent, high-quality espresso shots from your Breville Bambino Plus.
Key Takeaways
| Regular Cleaning | Cleaning the grinder and burrs prevents oil and residue buildup. |
| Use Fresh Beans | Stale or oily beans are common causes of clogging. |
| Check for Obstructions | Inspect and clear any jammed coffee grounds or debris. |
| Follow recommended cleaning schedules to prolong machine life. |

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Identify the Cause of the Clog
The first step in fixing a clogged grinder is diagnosing the root cause. Common culprits include stale beans, excess oil, or debris lodged in the burrs or chute. If your grinder suddenly stops or produces uneven grounds, it likely indicates an obstruction or buildup.
Check for visible blockages in the chute or burr area. Notice if the grinder is making unusual noises or if the coffee grounds look inconsistent. These signs point to the need for a thorough cleaning or bean quality check.

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Gather Necessary Cleaning Supplies
Before starting, gather the appropriate cleaning tools and products. You’ll need:
- Breville BEC250 Espresso Machine Cleaning Tablets or equivalent
- Brush or small vacuum cleaner for burrs
- Clean, dry cloth
- Fresh coffee beans
Using official cleaning tablets ensures compatibility and optimal cleaning performance, helping to dissolve coffee oils and residues that cause clogging.
Disassemble and Clean the Grinder
- Turn off and unplug your Breville Bambino Plus to ensure safety.
- Remove the bean hopper and empty remaining beans. Clean the hopper with a damp cloth and dry thoroughly.
- Remove the upper burr assembly according to the user manual instructions.
- Use a brush or small vacuum to clear coffee grounds and debris from the burrs and chute.
- If using cleaning tablets, place one tablet in the chamber and run the grinder in short bursts to dissolve the tablet and clean the burrs.
- Reassemble the burrs and hopper carefully, ensuring all parts are dry and correctly fitted.
This process removes stubborn oils and residue that contribute to clogging and ensures the burrs operate smoothly.
Run a Cleaning Cycle and Test
After reassembling, run a few test grinds with fresh beans to check if the clogging issue persists. If the grinder runs smoothly, your cleaning was successful. If not, repeat the cleaning process or inspect for any residual obstructions.
For ongoing maintenance, use cleaning tablets regularly—about every 1-2 months depending on usage—to prevent future clogs and maintain optimal flavor extraction.
Preventive Tips for Long-Term Performance
To avoid recurring clog issues, follow these tips:
- Always use fresh, high-quality beans—avoid oily or stale beans.
- Clean the hopper and burrs regularly, especially if you notice uneven grind or slow operation.
- Store beans in an airtight container to prevent moisture and oil buildup.
- Schedule routine maintenance with official cleaning tablets or descaling solutions.
Proper maintenance not only prevents clogs but also extends the lifespan of your espresso machine and keeps your coffee tasting pristine.
The Products in This Guide

Breville Bambino Plus
- ✔ Weight: 9.9 kg
- ✔ Dimensions: 12 x 7.7 x 12 inches
- ✔ Warranty: 1 year

Breville BEC250 Espresso Machine Cleaning Tablets
- ✔ Size: 8 tablets
- ✔ Shelf Life: 1 year
- ✔ Brand: Breville
Breville Bambino Plus

The Breville Bambino Plus is a compact yet powerful espresso machine that benefits greatly from proper cleaning routines. Using the right cleaning products and following maintenance steps ensures consistent performance and flavor.
Pros:
- Easy to use
- Effective cleaning tablets
- Prolongs machine life
- Compatible with Breville models
Cons:
- Requires regular use
- Must follow cleaning schedule
- Some parts require disassembly
Best for: Owners looking to maintain peak performance and flavor
Not ideal for: Those who prefer minimal maintenance or infrequent use
Bottom line: Regular cleaning with official tablets is key to preventing grinder clogs in your Breville Bambino Plus.
Breville BEC250 Espresso Machine Cleaning Tablets

Using Breville BEC250 cleaning tablets regularly ensures your espresso machine remains free of oils and residues that cause clogging, keeping your coffee tasting fresh and your machine running smoothly.
Pros:
- Official product
- Effective removal of coffee oils
- Easy to use
- Prolongs machine lifespan
Cons:
- Must be used regularly
- Additional cost over time
- Requires disassembly for thorough cleaning
Best for: Maintaining optimal performance with minimal hassle
Not ideal for: Infrequent users or those unfamiliar with cleaning routines
Bottom line: Official Breville cleaning tablets are a reliable choice for preventing grinder clogs and maintaining coffee quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my Breville grinder keep clogging?
Clogging often results from using stale or oily beans, residue buildup in the burrs, or infrequent cleaning. Regular maintenance helps prevent this issue.
How often should I clean the grinder?
It’s recommended to clean the grinder every 1-2 months with official cleaning tablets, especially if you notice uneven grounds or slow grinding.
Can I use other cleaning products instead of official tablets?
While some generic cleaning products may work, official Breville cleaning tablets are designed for compatibility and optimal performance.
Is disassembling the grinder safe?
Yes, but follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Always unplug the machine before disassembly and handle parts gently.
What should I do if cleaning doesn’t fix the clog?
Repeat the cleaning process, inspect for physical obstructions, or contact Breville customer service for further assistance.
Keep Your Breville Espresso Machine Clutter-Free for Perfect Coffee
Regular cleaning and proper bean storage are essential for preventing grinder clogs and maintaining the quality of your espresso. By following the steps outlined above, you can troubleshoot common issues safely and effectively, ensuring your Breville Bambino Plus continues to deliver café-quality coffee at home. Consistent maintenance not only improves flavor but also extends the lifespan of your appliance, making every espresso a delight.
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