If your Breville Bambino Plus is experiencing frequent grinder clogs, it can disrupt your coffee routine and reduce machine performance. This issue often stems from accumulated coffee grounds, oil buildup, or improper grind size. Fortunately, with careful troubleshooting and regular maintenance, you can resolve this problem and restore your machine to optimal functioning.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through a detailed, safe, and effective process to clear grinder blockages, prevent future clogs, and keep your espresso experience seamless.
Key Takeaways
| Identify the cause | Clogs are often caused by fine grounds or oil buildup. |
| Regular cleaning | Consistent cleaning prevents blockages and maintains flavor. |
| Use proper grind size | Adjust grind settings to prevent over-filling the grinder. |
| Check for obstructions | Inspect and clear any jammed coffee grounds or debris. |
| Maintain machine components | Replace filters and clean burrs periodically to ensure smooth operation. |

Breville Bambino Plus, Black Stainless Steel
The Breville Bambino Plus delivers third wave specialty coffee at home using the 4 keys formula and is...
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
Step 1: Turn Off and Unplug Your Machine
Before beginning any maintenance, ensure your Breville Bambino Plus is turned off and unplugged from the power source. This safety step prevents accidental activation and protects you from electrical hazards. Wait for the machine to cool if it has been recently used, especially around the grinder area.

Breville BEC250 Espresso Machine Cleaning Tablets for Breville Models, 8 Pack
OFFICIAL BREVILLE CLEANING TABLETS: Extend your espresso machine's functionality and prolong its life by turning to the brand...
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
Step 2: Remove and Clean the Portafilter and Grind Burrs
- Detach the portafilter and empty any remaining coffee grounds.
- Gently remove the bean hopper and grind burrs if your model allows access (consult your user manual).
- Brush away coffee grounds from the burrs using a soft brush or a dedicated cleaning tool.
- Wipe the burrs and surrounding area with a damp cloth.
Step 3: Clear the Grinder Clog
To clear a clog, use a small, soft brush or a dedicated cleaning tool to carefully dislodge any stuck coffee grounds within the grinder chute. If grounds are stubborn, run a small amount of dry, uncooked rice through the grinder to absorb oils and loosen debris, then discard the rice and clean thoroughly.
Step 4: Clean and Maintain the Grinder and Water System
- Use Breville BEC250 Espresso Machine Cleaning Tablets or a similar product to clean the grinder and internal components. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use.
- Check and replace charcoal water filters (for example, Breville Charcoal Filters ASIN B000VX44OO) regularly to prevent impurities that can affect grinding and brewing.
- Run a cleaning cycle with water to flush out residual oils and debris.
Step 5: Adjust Grind Size and Test
After cleaning, adjust the grind size to a slightly coarser setting if fine grounds caused the clog. Turn on the machine, run a test grind, and observe if the clog persists. Repeat cleaning if necessary.
Additional Tips and Warnings
- Perform routine cleaning every 1-2 weeks, especially if you use your machine frequently.
- Use fresh, quality coffee beans and avoid overly oily beans that can clog the grinder.
- Never insert metal objects or sharp tools into the grinder chute to prevent damage.
- Ensure all parts are dry before reassembling to prevent mold and corrosion.
The Products in This Guide

Breville Bambino Plus
- ✔ Capacity: 67 fl oz water tank
- ✔ Material: Stainless steel
- ✔ Warranty: 1 year

Breville BEC250 Espresso Machine Cleaning Tablets
- ✔ Application: Daily cleaning
- ✔ Ingredients: Pharmaceutical-grade
- ✔ Shelf Life: 2 years
Breville Bambino Plus

The Breville Bambino Plus is a compact, high-performance espresso machine that delivers cafe-quality results at home. Its dose control grinding system ensures consistent coffee grounds, but like all grinders, it may experience clogs over time. Regular maintenance prevents issues and prolongs the lifespan of your machine.
Pros:
- Compact and stylish design
- Precise dose control for consistent grinding
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Easy to clean and maintain
Cons:
- Grinder can clog if not cleaned regularly
- Requires periodic filter replacements
- Ongoing maintenance needed for optimal performance
Best for: Coffee enthusiasts seeking professional results at home
Not ideal for: Users who prefer very oily beans or infrequent cleaning
Bottom line: With regular cleaning and proper use, the Breville Bambino Plus remains a top choice for home baristas.
Breville BEC250 Espresso Machine Cleaning Tablets

Using Breville BEC250 Espresso Machine Cleaning Tablets helps maintain your machine’s performance by removing oils and residues that cause clogs. Regular use keeps your espresso tasting fresh and your machine working smoothly.
Pros:
- Official Breville product
- Effective at removing coffee oils
- Easy to use
- Prolongs machine lifespan
Cons:
- Needs to be used regularly
- Additional cost over time
- Not a substitute for manual cleaning
Best for: Maintaining cleanliness and performance of your Breville espresso machine
Not ideal for: Infrequent users who rarely clean their machine
Bottom line: Regular cleaning with official tablets ensures your Breville stays in top shape.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my Breville grinder keep clogging?
Clogs are often caused by fine coffee grounds, oily beans, or infrequent cleaning. Regular maintenance and adjusting grind size can prevent this.
How often should I clean my grinder?
It’s recommended to clean the grinder and burrs at least once every 1-2 weeks, especially with frequent use, and after using oily beans.
What products are safe for cleaning my Breville espresso machine?
Use Breville BEC250 Espresso Machine Cleaning Tablets or similar food-grade, non-corrosive cleaning products designed for espresso machines.
Can I use rice to clear a grinder clog?
Yes, running dry, uncooked rice through the grinder can help absorb oils and loosen debris. Be sure to clean the grinder thoroughly afterward.
How do I prevent future clogs?
Adjust your grind size to a coarser setting if clogging occurs, perform regular cleaning, and use fresh, low-oil coffee beans.
Keep Your Breville Espresso Running Smoothly
Regular maintenance is key to preventing grinder clogs and ensuring your Breville Bambino Plus delivers the high-quality espresso you expect. Follow these steps diligently, use recommended cleaning products, and adjust your grind settings as needed. With proper care, your machine will continue to produce rich, flavorful coffee for years to come.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.