Guides

Disclosure: Home Barista Guide uses affiliate links. If you purchase through our links we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This never influences our recommendations. Quick answer: The best espresso gift depends entirely on what the recipient already owns. If they have no machine, the De’Longhi Dedica Arte (£179)…

Note: This is an informational guide. Some links in this article are affiliate links — if you purchase through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Quick answer: Descale your espresso machine every 2-3 months, or when it tells you to. Use the manufacturer’s own descaler or a…

Disclosure: Home Barista Guide uses affiliate links. If you purchase through our links we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This never influences our recommendations. Quick answer: Freshness matters more than brand. The best coffee bean is one roasted within the last 4-6 weeks, from a roaster who prints…

Note: This is an informational guide. Some links in this article are affiliate links — if you purchase through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Quick answer: Steaming milk well is a learnable skill that most people master within 2-3 weeks of daily practice. The goal is…

Note: This is an informational guide. Some links in this article are affiliate links — if you purchase through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Quick answer: Grind size is the single most important variable in home espresso. Too coarse and your coffee tastes sour and weak.…

Note: This is an informational guide. Some links in this article are affiliate links — if you purchase through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Making great espresso at home isn’t complicated — but it does require understanding a handful of key variables. Most home espresso problems…