FAQ: Bluecup (Nespresso Original Line)

Bluecup coffee pods work with all standard-line Nespresso* machines manufactured after October 2010. To double check whether your machine is suitable for the Bluecup, ensure the sleeve that holds the capsule when you close the machine is made of black plastic, not aluminium. Bluecup is also compatible with L'or and Kmart Nespresso* compatible pod machines.

Please note - U Series machines (older models in particular) can be a little fickle when brewing with reusables. Some of these machines have also been discontinued by the manufacturer. Unfortunately we are unable to guarantee that reusable pods will perform well in this particular model.

Your Bluecup can be used in your Nespresso* machine at least 200 times.

We recommend using a burr grinder for the best results, as blade grinders create an inconsistent grind, as well as too much dust.

Firstly, we always recommend grabbing a bag of our delicious Bespoke Blend in stovetop grind (crafted specifically for use with Bluecup) to get you going - you can also take this along to your local roaster as a great grind reference point!

And of course, one of the beauties of reusable pods, is that you're no longer restricted to the blends available from big brands. To help you brew a great planet-friendly cuppa, we've put together our key tips for selecting the perfect coffee for your new reusable pods!

Blend: It's important to remember coffee beans are an agricultural product - naturally, they differ! The roasting process also has a big impact on the final product. As pure coffee beans have no added flavours, we suggest using a lovely strong, dark roast. We also encourage you to try a new blend every time you shop for a new bag of coffee as you build an understanding for which flavours and aromas suit your palate.

Grind size: We recommend using a medium-fine grind (slightly coarser than espresso). If you're not grinding at home, ask your favourite cafe to grind the beans for you.

Machine prep (recommended for best results)
Remove any capsules from the machine, fill the water tank with filtered water, place a cup under the coffee outlet and extract a shot of the water. To assist with optimal performance, before brewing with reusable pods, we also recommend performing a thorough descale to ensure that the brewing pressure of your machine is normal.

Step 1. Fill

Turn to two parts of the Cup Creator to separate them. Press an empty capsule with the open side facing up into the underside of the Spoon Holder, and use to scoop the coffee, levelling the top to remove any excess grinds. Place the filled capsule in the base of the Cup Creator, lifting the Spoon Holder at an angle to remove the capsule. Tamp using the smooth side of the Spoon Holder.

Step 2. Seal & brew
Place an Foil Lid (edge facing downwards) on the filled capsule. Place the top of the Cup Creator directly over the capsule and Foil Lid. Press the top side downwards and turn. Unscrew the Cup Creator and press the black button on the top to release the capsule. Place in your machine, and brew!

A Bluecup can hold around 5.2 grams of ground coffee.

Yes - all Bluecup components are BPA free, and have passed the tests for food safety and durability.

Since launching in 2014, we've tested, trialled and experimented with a plethora of reusable capsule material options and combinations! As part of our research, the criteria included that the product must:
• Be as sustainable as possible (either closing-the-loop or fully recyclable)
• Be production compliant and
• Meet all food safety standards and regulations.
During our explorations and research, we discovered that the simple act of piercing the capsule lid creates a pressure build-up, which results in a richer brew and crema. When our customers switch to reusable - we hope they'll keep reusing for the lifetime of their pod machine! By refilling the steel capsule, and composting the grounds, our customers are drastically reducing their kitchen waste, whilst still enjoying a lovely espresso.

If your local recycling facility are unable to sort items of this size, simply collect them in an aluminium can, squeeze it shut when full, and place in your home recycling bin.

Sure thing! Your brew results will vary, dependant onwhichcoffee you use, andhowyou use it. You can check out our top tips here.

How kind of you for asking! Honestly, the best way you can help is telling your friends / family about us, and share share SHARE on social media! The more people that brew with reusables, the bigger our impact.

And if you know someone who could do with a little encouragement switching from single-use to reusable, or simply want to give us a shout out at your workplace, we have some handy downloadable / printable posters too:
Single-Use SwapsReusable Coffee Pod Info