How do I clean out espresso strainer clogged by coffee grounds which were too fine?

Question

I tried soaking it in boiling water and also a coffee pot cleaner which is supposed to remove hard water and mineral deposits. The strainer has a double layer which I can't separate and the grounds are caught between the two layers.

Answer 1

You may have to resort to using a flat blade screwdriver to separate the filter basket from the portafilter handle and then using a straight pin to poke the coffee grounds out of the holes in the bottom of the filter basket.

Answer 2

a picture would be most helpful in trying to answer your problem, as i am not familiar with a double layer strainer that you refer to

Answer 3

Coffee pot cleaner and/or vinegar will work on the minerals from the water but they will not affect coffee grounds at all.

Use a blunt smooth object (maybe a spoon), place the filter on a smooth flat surface and try to smash the grounds more, then flush them out  with water. Be careful not not tear or damage the filter.

Answer 4

Try using vinegar,  add 3 oz. of vinegar to 20 oz. of water, and let it run through the machine. Then run about 3-4 times the amount of fresh water.

Also take a look at this site, it might help you:

http://www.home-barista.com/espresso-mac...