Espresso
How to Test Your Tap Water Hardness for Espresso
Stop guessing about scale. Here is how to accurately test your tap water hardness at home using cheap, reliable methods to protect your espresso machine.
Author
Theo Marchetti
Theo is a former competition barista who has tested hundreds of grinders and machines. He focuses on hands-on gear reviews, dialing-in technique, and getting cafe-quality shots at home.
8 guides
Espresso
Stop Channelling: The Real Physics of Espresso Puck Prep
Master the exact mechanics of WDT, grooming, and tamping. Eliminate channeling and get highly repeatable espresso extractions at home.
Espresso
Why You Should Build Your Own Water for Espresso
Stop feeding your espresso machine scale. Learn how to remineralize distilled or RO water for better flavor and zero boiler damage.
Beans
The Best Coffee Beans for Moka Pot
Stop brewing bitter mud. Our editor shares the exact coffee beans and roast profiles that thrive under the high heat of a Bialetti moka pot.
Brewing
Stop Ruining Your Coffee With Pure Water
Why distilled or RO water ruins your espresso and how to easily remineralize it at home for better flavor and machine longevity.
Espresso
How to Dial in Espresso: A Step-by-Step Practical Guide
Master the art of dialing in espresso with our step-by-step guide. Learn how to control yield, grind size, and time for the perfect home shot.
Gear
How to Clean Your Espresso Machine Water Tank the Right Way
Keep your espresso tasting crisp and protect your machine from mold and scale. Here is how to deep clean and sanitize your water reservoir.
Gear
Best Zero Retention Grinder: Top 2026 Picks
Stop wasting expensive beans. Discover the best zero retention single-dose grinders of 2026 for pristine espresso and pour-over flavor.