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Best Nespresso Refillable Capsules
A guide to refillable coffee pods for Nespresso machines. Nespresso machines are known for being convenient, easy to use, and producing delicious coffee with a generous crema. With a Nespresso machine from the Original or the Vertuo line, you can make instant single servings of coffee with ease.
Published March 25, 2022
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Daniel Hedlund
Coffee experts@The Coffee Lab
Thanks to the pods, there’s also no mess to worry about. However, the main downside to the pods is that they are single use. If you have a Nespresso machine, there are several things that might concern you about the pods, including the environmental impact of pods that are not recyclable, or having to deal with disposing of piles of used capsules every day. If this sounds familiar to you, then it might be worth looking into reusable coffee capsules for Nespresso. You can get Nespresso reusable pods for your Nespresso machine and fill them with your choice of ground coffee instead. Refillable Nespresso pods can have lots of different benefits including being cheaper and kinder to the environment, along with allowing you to choose from a wider range of coffee options rather than only being able to get the single-serve brands that are available.
How to Choose the Best Refillable Capsules for Nespresso
With various refillable capsule options out there to choose from, it’s a good idea to know what to look out for if you want to make the switch to using reusable Nespresso pods with your Nespresso machine. Some of the main things to consider before you choose the best reusable coffee capsules to buy include:
Original or Vertuo?
The type of Nespresso coffee machine that you have is going to play a main part in deciding which Nespresso machine reusable pods you use. Check your Nespresso machine to make sure that you are finding compatible pods, as the last thing that you want is to get a reusable pod that does not work with your coffee maker. If you can buy lots of different pod brands like Starbucks pods for your machine and the pods are small, then you likely have an Original line Nespresso machine. On the other hand, if your machine takes larger pods and you need to buy them from Nespresso, then you have a Vertuo machine, and you will need to get reusable Nespresso vertuo pods to make sure that they actually fit in the pod holder.
There are basic mechanical differences between the Original and VertuoLine brewers. Original lines create high pressure with the capsules before the water is pushed through the coffee grounds, in a similar way to a traditional espresso machine. On the other hand, a Vertuo machine will push water into the capsule before spinning it around to blend the grounds and the water. This produces better drinks but involves more design work in the capsules which is why the range if limited. Because of this, you are more likely to find reusable espresso pods for the Original machines. However, you can find Nespresso VertuoLine refillable pods but you may need to look a little harder.
Capsule Tops
The top of the capsule is one of the most important aspects of any Nespresso coffee pod. The lid is what allows the pressure to build up before the coffee is released, and that’s what creates the generous crema that you get from your Nespresso coffee maker. Because of this, it’s important to look for Nespresso machine reusable pods that have a good seal. This is especially important if you are looking for the best reusable Vertuo capsule since the VertuoLine of machines spin the pod around during brewing, so the lid needs to be really secure.
The best reusable Nespresso pods tend to come with two different lid designs: either a latching top or a sticker-type top. The main difference between the two is that latch tops are a part of the capsule while sticker tops are attached using adhesive and are disposable. While there are some drawbacks of the sticker tops as you will still have a single-use part and will need to restock occasionally, the benefit is that they are usually better at handling a high build-up of pressure before the coffee is released.
Alchemy Bar Goods Reusable Nespresso Pods
These reusable Nespresso pods from Alchemy Bar Goods are designed for the Original line and are easy to clean and maintain. They are dishwasher safe, and very easy to use. All you need to do is fill the capsule with your favorite coffee grounds, lock the lid, and brew your coffee. Dispose of the coffee grounds once finished and just throw the pod into the dishwasher for next time.
Unlike other models, these capsules use a latching top rather than a sticker top, which means that the pressure builds up before the water is released through a valve. However, while this does not usually produce as much pressure as you would expect from the sticker tops, it is easier to use, more reliable, and doesn’t require restocking stickers.
The capsules are made using BPA-free plastic and are durable enough to withstand the temperature of the Nespresso brewing process.
Sealpod Stainless Steel Pods
These stainless-steel refillable pods use a sticker top, which is very convenient as they are easy to load up. Although you’ll need to dispose of and stock up on tops occasionally, they can be a great option if you don’t mind doing this. Thanks to the sticker top, the pressure can build up in a more reliable way compared to other options, which ensures that you get a great crema on your espresso.
Most user reviews praise these pods with reports that it works well. However, the size can cause some small issues, since these pods are slightly smaller than the usual options. This is because they are made from stainless steel and therefore need to avoid being punctured. This can result in slightly smaller shots, but it’s not usually that noticeable. They’re designed for using with the Nespresso Original line.
CAPMESSO Reusable Espresso Capsules
Another great reusable pod to consider for your Original line Nespresso machine is the CAMPESSO capsule. They are great for anybody who is okay with sticker top and wants a simple experience. The capsules use a foil top that adheres to the cup. All you need to do is press the foil cover onto the top of the capsule after filling with your favorite coffee before putting the pod in your machine as normal.
One downside to these pods is that they are very light, so they might need to be replaced sooner compared to other options. However, they will of course last longer than your typical single-use Nespresso pod. Most users report that they can handle up to around a month of consistent use, which might not be ideal if you want something that you can rely on for longer.
Bluesea Coffee Capsule
If you have a Nespresso VertuoLine machine, then you might find it harder to find reusable pods that are suitable due to the differences in the brewing process. This means that most of the reusable capsules that you can find are usually designed for the Original line of machines. The Vertuo process mechanics are more complicated since the pods need to rapidly spin to mix the water and coffee grounds while brewing.
However, just because you have a VertuoLine machine, does not mean that you can’t get refillable pods. This option from Bluesea does the job quite well. The pods are made from stainless steel, so not only are they aesthetically pleasing but they are also quite durable and last for a long time. It also prevents espresso from seeping into the surface and leaving a residue behind.
Cafilas Reusable Capsules
If you have an Original Line Nespresso coffee machine, Cafilas is one of the best refillable capsule options to consider. They make a lot of big promises about crema, and so far, users have found that they live up to the hype. The stainless-steel construction means that they are very durable and can be reused over and over again for a very long time. Around the rim of the pod, there is a rubber gasket that creates a strong seal and ensures you get the important crema on the top of your espresso.
If you decide to get these pods for your Nespresso machine, then it’s recommended to fill them to just below the top. This is because they do have a common problem with the water not being able to push all the way thorough. Thankfully, you can reduce the risk of this happening by leaving some room for the water to fill the capsule before the seal is broken; this will also help you achieve coffee that is stronger and more satisfying. They are best used with coffee beans that have been finely ground.
If you have a Nespresso machine but want to use your own coffee beans, these refillable pods might be an ideal way to make that happen. While most refillable capsules are made for the Original Line, reusable VertuoLine capsules are also coming on the market to help you save money and be more environmentally friendly.
About the author
Daniel Hedlund
Working with the Era of We initiative and loves knowledge sharing and a really good cup of coffee.
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