We spend a lot of time obsessing over which coffee beans to buy, but we often ignore the most significant ingredient in the pot: the water.
Consider this: a standard cup of coffee is roughly 98.75% water. The coffee beans are just the flavoring. It stands to reason that if your water tastes flat or metallic, your morning brew doesn’t stand a chance.
Fortunately, improving your cup is easier than you think, and you can start today.
Filter for Flavor. Tap water often contains minerals or chlorine that mask the delicate notes of your coffee. If you use the water dispenser in your refrigerator, ensure you replace the filter as soon as the indicator light turns red. If you don't have a fridge dispenser, an inexpensive water filter pitcher or a simple faucet attachment can work wonders.
Clean Your Machine. Mineral buildup inside your brewer can ruin the taste and slow down water flow. Descaling your machine regularly—usually when it notifies you—is crucial. It keeps the internal pipes clean and ensures the water reaches the optimal temperature for brewing.
Give these two tips a try tomorrow morning. You will be amazed at how much sweeter and smoother your coffee tastes just by upgrading the water.