Experiencing a grinder clog in your Breville Bambino Plus can disrupt your coffee routine and impact the quality of your espresso. Understanding common causes and following the correct troubleshooting steps can help you resolve the issue quickly and safely.
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This guide provides practical, detailed instructions to identify and fix grinder clogs, ensuring your machine remains in top condition for cafe-quality brews at home.
Key Takeaways
| Common Cause | Overly fine grind or stale beans can lead to clogging. |
| Regular Cleaning | Frequent maintenance prevents build-up and ensures smooth operation. |
| Proper Grinding Settings | Adjust grind size to avoid excessive pressure causing blockages. |
| Step-by-step Fix | Careful disassembly and cleaning resolve most clogs. |
Identify the Signs of a Grinder Clog
- The grinder is making unusual noises or grinding sounds.
- Beans are not being ground or the grind is inconsistent.
- The machine indicates an error or stops grinding mid-process.
Preparation Before Fixing
- Turn off and unplug your Breville Bambino Plus.
- Allow the machine to cool if recently used.
- Gather necessary tools: a cleaning brush, a small screwdriver, and cleaning tablets if needed.
Step-by-Step Fix for Grinder Clog
- Remove the bean hopper gently by lifting it off the top of the grinder.
- Inspect for any stuck beans or debris near the burrs.
- Use a brush to clean around the burrs and remove any stuck particles.
- If beans are jammed, gently dislodge them with a plastic or wooden tool—avoid metal to prevent damage.
- Reassemble the hopper securely and run a cleaning cycle or grind some dry beans to test.
Prevent Future Clogs
- Use fresh, medium-fresh beans; avoid oily or stale beans.
- Adjust grind size to a slightly coarser setting if clogs persist.
- Clean your grinder regularly, ideally every few weeks, with appropriate cleaning tablets or brushes.
Tips & Warnings
- Always unplug the machine before disassembly.
- Be gentle during cleaning to avoid damaging burrs.
- Use only manufacturer-approved cleaning products.
- If issues persist after cleaning, contact Breville customer service.
The Products in This Guide

Breville Bambino Plus
- ✔ Weight: 13.2 pounds
- ✔ Power: 1600W
- ✔ Warranty: 1 year

Breville BEC250 Espresso Machine Cleaning Tablets
- ✔ Shelf Life: 2 years
- ✔ Ease of Use: Simple tablet dissolution
- ✔ Safety: Food-grade ingredients
Breville Bambino Plus

The Breville Bambino Plus is a compact yet powerful espresso machine that offers professional results at home. Its dose control grinding and optimal water pressure help ensure a flavorful, balanced shot every time. Proper maintenance, including managing grinder clogs, keeps it performing at its best.
Pros:
- Compact and stylish design
- Consistent dose control grinding
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet
- Easy to clean and maintain
Cons:
- Requires regular cleaning to prevent clogs
- Grinding noise can be loud
- Limited water reservoir size
Best for: Home baristas seeking quality espresso in a small footprint
Not ideal for: Heavy users with high-volume demands may need a more industrial grinder
Bottom line: A top-tier home espresso machine that benefits from regular grinder maintenance.
Breville BEC250 Espresso Machine Cleaning Tablets

Using Breville BEC250 Cleaning Tablets regularly helps remove coffee oils and residues, prolonging your machine’s life and ensuring great-tasting espresso.
Pros:
- Designed specifically for Breville machines
- Easy to use and dissolve
- Non-corrosive formulation
- Extends machine lifespan
Cons:
- Requires regular use for best results
- Only for cleaning, not descaling
Best for: Maintaining cleanliness and flavor consistency
Not ideal for: Cleaning tablets alone don’t replace descaling for mineral buildup
Bottom line: Essential for keeping your Breville espresso machine clean and performing well.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes grinder clogs in my Breville Bambino Plus?
Clogs are often caused by using oily, stale, or overly fine beans, or infrequent cleaning that leads to buildup of coffee residues and blockages.
How often should I clean the grinder?
It’s recommended to clean the grinder every 2-4 weeks, or more frequently if you notice signs of clogging or grinding inconsistency.
Can I use regular cleaning tablets for my Breville Bambino Plus?
No, it’s best to use tablets specifically designed for Breville machines, like the Breville BEC250, to ensure safe and effective cleaning.
Is it safe to disassemble the grinder myself?
Yes, as long as you follow safety precautions—unplug the machine first, and handle parts gently to avoid damage.
Keep Your Espresso Perfect with Proper Maintenance
Regularly addressing grinder clogs and cleaning your Breville Bambino Plus ensures consistent, high-quality espresso shots and prolongs your machine’s lifespan. Follow the steps carefully, use recommended cleaning products, and enjoy cafe-quality coffee at home.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
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