The Biggest Mistakes When Brewing Coffee

Published at: 05-24-2025 By Menachem Kossowsky
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The Biggest Mistakes When Brewing Coffee

The Biggest Mistakes When Brewing Coffee
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Who doesn’t love a good cup of joe to kickstart the day? But let’s be real, brewing the perfect coffee at home can feel like rocket science sometimes. We reached out to six coffee pros to spill the beans on the biggest mistake folks make when brewing their morning brew. Spoiler alert: it’s not just about buying fancy beans! Once, I totally botched my coffee by using water that was way too hot—tasted like burnt toast. Check out these expert tips to avoid screwing up your next cup.


1. Using Water That’s Too Hot

1. Using Water That’s Too Hot
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Pouring boiling water straight onto your grounds is a rookie move. It scorches the coffee, making it taste bitter and kinda gross. Aim for water between 195-205°F to get that smooth, rich flavor without the burnt vibes.


2. Skimping on the Coffee Grounds

2. Skimping on the Coffee Grounds
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Don’t be stingy with your grounds, warns a head coffee roaster. Using too little coffee for the amount of water makes your brew weak and watery, like drinking brown sadness. A good rule is 2 tablespoons of grounds for every 6 ounces of water.


3. Grinding Beans Way Too Early

3. Grinding Beans Way Too Early
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Grinding your beans days before brewing is a big no-no, according to a café owner. Freshly ground coffee loses its flavor fast, so grind right before you brew to keep those tasty aromas locked in.


4. Ignoring Your Brewer’s Cleanliness

4. Ignoring Your Brewer’s Cleanliness
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A grimy coffee maker is a flavor killer, says a coffee blogger. Leftover oils and gunk build up and make your coffee taste funky. Clean your machine monthly with vinegar or a descaler to keep things fresh.


5. Using Crappy Water

5. Using Crappy Water
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Water quality matters, y’all, per a coffee consultant. Tap water with weird minerals or chlorine can mess up your brew’s taste. Use filtered water to let the coffee’s true flavors shine through.


6. Rushing the Brewing Proces

6. Rushing the Brewing Proces
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Patience is key, says another roaster. Rushing your pour-over or not letting your French press steep long enough leads to weak coffee. Take your time—let it brew for 3-4 minutes to get the full flavor punch.


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