Updated 19 July 2026 · Written by Daniel Wright
A plastic taste from a new coffee maker is off-gassing from the fresh plastic and seals, and it fades with use. Run several water-only cycles, then a vinegar cycle, to flush it out. If an older machine suddenly tastes of plastic, it usually needs a deep clean and descale.
Run three or four water-only brew cycles, then one cycle of half vinegar and half water, then two more clean-water rinses. The plastic taste in a new machine is off-gassing and clears within a few uses.
Why Coffee Tastes of Plastic
A brand-new machine off-gassing
New plastic housings, tubes and seals release a faint plastic smell and taste when first heated. It is harmless and fades after several brew cycles as the parts cure.
Residue from manufacturing
Factory oils and dust can coat the reservoir and tubes. A few rinse cycles wash these away and remove the associated taste.
Old coffee oils and mould
In an older machine, rancid coffee oils or mould in the reservoir and lines create off, plastic-like flavours. This needs a thorough clean and descale.
Cheap plastic and hot water
Some low-quality reservoirs impart a lasting taste when heated. If flushing does not help at all, the plastic itself may be the source.
How to Get Rid of the Taste
- Run three to four full cycles of plain water through the machine, discarding each.
- Run one cycle of equal parts white vinegar and water.
- Follow with two full cycles of clean water to rinse the vinegar out.
- Wash the carafe, lid and removable basket with warm soapy water.
- Use filtered water going forward and repeat the flush if any taste lingers.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Brewing coffee straight away in a brand-new machine without flushing it first.
- Skipping the clean-water rinses after a vinegar cycle, which leaves its own taste.
- Leaving old grounds and water sitting in the machine, which turns rancid.
When to Consider a Replacement
If a plastic taste persists after repeated flushing and a full clean, the reservoir plastic itself may be the source, which cannot be fixed. Choose a machine with a glass or higher-grade reservoir from our guide to the best coffee makers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to drink coffee that tastes like plastic?
The off-gassing from a new machine is generally harmless, but it tastes unpleasant. Flush the machine with water and vinegar cycles before regular use to clear it.
How many times should I run water through a new coffee maker?
Run at least three to four water-only cycles, then a vinegar cycle and two more water rinses, before brewing your first pot of coffee.
Why does my old coffee maker suddenly taste like plastic?
Usually built-up coffee oils, mould or scale in the reservoir and lines. A deep clean and descale normally removes the off, plastic-like flavour.
