The ultimate cleaning guide for Sage espresso machines
Jun 02, 2024
To maintain your Sage To keep your espresso machine in top condition and ensure it delivers the best coffee possible, it's crucial to follow a regular cleaning routine. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you take care of it. About your machine, based on best practices and tips.
This guide is general across all Sage espresso machines. For your specific model, more specific information can be found in the user manual. However, these tips in the post are relevant to all Sage owner.
What you need:
- Cleaning tablets
- Milk cleaning
- Blind filter (Included with the machine)
- Water filter
- Descaling agent
- Cleaning brush for group head
- Microfiber cloth
- Blocked steam wand tool (Included with the machine)
“Clean me!”
How often: When the machine tells you to
After approximately 200 brews, your Sagemachine to display a "clean me" warning on the screen. Follow these steps when this happens:
- Insert the cleaning disc into the single filter holder and add a cleaning tablet.
- Make sure the drip tray is in place and the water tank is filled.
- Scroll to "CLEAN CYCLE" on the menu and press "MANUAL" or "SELECT".
- The cleaning cycle starts and runs automatically.
- After the cycle is complete, check that the tablet has completely dissolved, otherwise run the cycle again. Rinse the filter holder, basket and cleaning disc thoroughly.
- Replace the cleaning disc without the tablet and run it manually a few times to rinse the group head.
Cleaning of portafilter
How often: Daily
After each use, you should rinse the portafilter and filter basket with hot water to remove coffee oils. From time to time, you can dissolve a cleaning tablet in hot water and let the portafilter and shower screen (About possible) in the solution. Avoid submerging the handle to prevent discoloration.
Backwash
How often: Daily
Daily backwashing is important. Use the shiny cleaning disc in the single filter holder and lock it into the group head. Press the double shot button or use manual mode to build pressure within the basket. Repeat this several times to clear the group head of any remaining coffee oils and coffee grounds.
Cleaning the drip tray
Empty the drip tray daily and wipe it with a damp cloth. Give it a thorough cleaning with soapy water regularly but avoid washing any part of the machine in the dishwasher. You don't need to wait until the drip tray indicates that it is full.
Replacing the water filter
How often: 2-3 months
Replace the water filter every 2-3 months to prevent limescale build-up, especially in hard water areas. Soak the filter for at least 5 minutes before replacing it in the water tank. About If you notice limescale buildup, perform a descaling procedure according to the instructions in your manual.
Cleaning the steam arm

How often: After each use
After each use, the steam arm must be cleaned thoroughly. Wipe all milk from the arm and flush out any residue by steaming. About If you clean the steam wand daily, you will not get a blocked steam wand.
Since you are using fresh milk every time you use it, it is absolutely important to wipe the steam wand clean and also turn on the steam to blow out the water and milk inside the steam wand.
About If the steam arm becomes blocked, soak the tip in warm water for 20 minutes and then use the included tool to clear the holes.
Troubleshooting
Blocked steam arm
- Make sure the steam valve is closed and use the pin tool to clear the holes in the steam arm.
- Soak the steam arm in hot water for 20 minutes and then try again.
- Unscrew the tip of the steam arm, clean and rinse thoroughly.
Dripping group head/steam arm
Clean the machine thoroughly, run a decalcification and change water filters more often to prevent dripping.
By following these cleaning routines, you can enjoy long-term, trouble-free use of your Sage espresso machine, ensuring that every cup of coffee tastes as good as the first.