How to Store Coffee Makers

To store a coffee maker correctly, start by cleaning every part, drying it completely, and packing it securely. A well-stored machine stays ready to brew your next cup without buildup, odors, or mineral residue. Whether you’re decluttering your kitchen, preparing for a move, or rotating appliances seasonally, these simple steps will keep your coffee maker in top condition.

Clean and Dry

Unplug the coffee maker and remove any filters, pods, or grounds. Run a full cycle with a mix of equal parts vinegar and water to dissolve mineral deposits that can form inside the tank. Then, run two additional cycles with plain water to rinse away any leftover vinegar. Wipe the exterior with a soft cloth and mild cleaner, paying attention to corners near the warming plate where residue tends to build up.

Dry every part thoroughly, including the water reservoir, carafe, basket, and lid. Moisture trapped inside can cause mildew or leave behind unpleasant smells. Leave components out to air-dry for several hours before packing.

Disassemble and Wrap

Take apart all detachable pieces such as the carafe, filter basket, drip tray, and water reservoir if removable. Wrap glass or fragile parts in bubble wrap, dish towels, or microfiber cloths. This extra cushion helps prevent chips or cracks during transport. Coil the power cord loosely and secure it with a twist tie or Velcro strap so it doesn’t kink.

If your coffee maker includes small accessories like reusable filters, measuring scoops, or frothing attachments, place them in a labeled resealable bag. Keeping everything together saves time when you’re setting up your machine again.

Choose a Sturdy Box

Use a sturdy, medium-sized box or plastic bin for packing. Add a layer of padding—such as crumpled paper or a towel—to the bottom. Position the base unit upright in the center, then arrange wrapped parts around it so everything fits snugly. Fill any remaining spaces with packing paper to prevent shifting.

If you still have the original packaging, use it. Manufacturers design those inserts and compartments specifically to cushion the machine. Before sealing, label the box “Coffee Maker – Fragile” so it’s easy to identify later.

Organize in Your Storage Unit

Inside your self-storage unit, keep your coffee maker box off the floor and in a stable position. Shelves or sturdy plastic bins make ideal platforms. Avoid stacking heavy items on top, especially if your machine has a glass carafe. Group the coffee maker with other small kitchen appliances—like blenders, toasters, and kettles—so you can find everything quickly when it’s time to unpack.

For climate-sensitive components, consider an indoor or climate-controlled unit. A steady environment helps prevent condensation and keeps electrical parts and rubber seals in great shape.

Long-Term Storage

If you plan to store your coffee maker for several months or longer, add a note inside the box listing the contents and the date packed. This quick reference helps you remember what’s inside at a glance. When you’re ready to use it again, wipe all surfaces with a clean cloth, check cords and plugs for dust, and run one water-only brew cycle before making your next pot.

Features and amenities vary by location, facility, and unit. “Climate-controlled” and related terms (such as air-conditioned, heated, or humidistat-equipped) describe storage spaces designed to help maintain more consistent temperature or humidity levels compared to non-climate-controlled units. Public Storage does not guarantee temperature or humidity ranges. Availability, features, and unit types may differ by location, facility, and unit. Please confirm with your facility whether specific climate-controlled features are available on units at that location.