But the way to use it is always the same. Read on to find out.

Many people are unsure about the exact amounts to be used.

Even though most people (like me) tend to unpack the new gadget then straight away plug it in and start using it. But we should really read the manual first and find out if there is something you have to do before brewing the first cup of coffee.

Black and Decker SmartBrew

There is a debate on whether you should use a permanent filter, thus saving the bother of having to buy paper filters. To this I can say that after you have used your drip coffee maker, you are left with the wet grounds.

But not only that, the brewing process has also left coffee oils. When you use a permanent filter, you have the wet grounds to get rid of and also the oils, these have attached themselves to the mesh of the filter.

If not properly cleaned, these oils will build up in the course of time and spoil the flavor of your of coffee more and more.

So do yourselves a favor and use those paper filters, they make it easier to get rid of the wet grounds and to keep the machine clean.

Here is the proper procedure to get the best out of the automatic coffee maker.

1. Start by filling the water container attached to the coffee machine with cold water, the amount depends on the number of cups of coffee that you want.



2. The coffee filter has been put in its designated place and is now filled with coffee.
   The amount depends on the amount of water, that you have put in the water container.
   Rule of thumb is: you add 2 tablespoons of coffee per cup and at the end add one for the coffee maker.
   
   This is a case of learning by doing, so you will vary the amount of coffee depending on your preference.
   
   
   Use 10 tbsp per 4 cups of water.
   
   
   Don't try to speed the whole process by putting hot water into the coffee maker.
   
   This will ruin the coffee flavour as the coffee maker will use water at a temperature just below boiling point. You might possibly damage the coffee maker.



3. Now turn the coffee maker on , and let it do its job.



4. When all the water has gone from the water container, make sure that there is no more water dripping on the coffee grounds. Then you can now pour the coffee into the cups.



5. Most coffee makers have a hotplate that the carafe sits on.
   
   Don't keep the hotplate on for more than half an hour, after this the coffee will become bitter.
   
   To keep the coffee warm for longer it is advisable to use a thermos flask
.

Read more on the drip coffee makers

More How-To Articles

Go from How to use drip coffee makers to the best coffee makers reviews