- High-quality coffee makers made of stainless steel or glass are generally safe to use, while cheaper models with plastic components may pose a risk of chemicals leaching into your brew.
- To ensure your coffee maker is non-toxic, opt for BPA-free, stainless steel, or glass parts, avoid aluminum heating elements, clean your machine regularly, and use filtered water to prevent mineral build-up.
- Some of the best non-toxic coffee makers on the market include the Espro P7 French Press, and De’Longhi All In One, which are made from high-quality materials like stainless steel.
Kelly Johnson-Arbor, a medical toxicology physician and interim executive director at National Capital Poison Center. She said that ‘plastics used in coffee makers can contain potentially dangerous chemicals, including BPA and PFAS’. These are used in lots of everyday kitchen products because they’re stain-resistant and waterproof. However, Kelly told me that BPA is associated with health issues, including endocrine disruption and impaired fertility.
Don’t panic – simply touching a coffee maker won’t have any repercussions on your health and wellbeing.
It’s more of a long-term effect; if your coffee maker becomes damaged or is consistently exposed to boiling water for long periods of time, the chemicals may slowly leach into your coffee.
To avoid exposure, opt for shorter, cooler brews.
These are the best non-toxic machines:
- ESPRO P7 COFFEE PRESS
ESPRO P7 the risk appears very low, given:
- BPA/BPS/phthalate‑free plastic parts
- Stainless steel body and filters
- Manufacturer claims of testing for extractable lead and passing those tests
If you are particularly sensitive, or want to be extra safe, some steps can reduce risk:
If you have any scratches, damage to stainless or coating, avoid using those damaged parts.
Generally, high-quality stainless steel does not leach harmful chemicals into your coffee, making it a safe and popular choice for mugs, tumblers, and coffee makers. But there are a few caveats worth knowing:
✅ Why Stainless Steel Is Safe
Wash the press well before first use, and rinse after each use.
Avoid leaving coffee / hot water sitting in the press for very long periods (though P7 is designed with insulation, which is part of why people leave brew in it, but longer exposure tends to increase any leaching).
- Non-reactive surface: Grades like 304 (18/8) and 316 (18/10) stainless steel are resistant to corrosion and don’t react with acidic substances like coffee.
- Durability: It doesn’t absorb flavors or odors and withstands high temperatures well.
- Hygienic: It’s non-porous and easy to clean, reducing the risk of bacterial buildup.
⚠️ Potential Risks (Rare but Possible)
- Low-quality stainless steel may contain trace amounts of heavy metals like nickel or lead, which could leach under extreme conditions.
- Acidic coffee can cause minor corrosion or etching over time, especially if the steel is thin or poorly made.
- Plastic or silicone parts in some coffee gear (like lids or seals) may leach chemicals if not food-grade.
🧼 Best Practices
- Use high-grade stainless steel (look for 304 or 316).
- Avoid leaving coffee sitting for hours in the container.
- Clean regularly to prevent buildup and corrosion.
If you’re using a reputable brand and maintaining your gear well, you’re in the clear.
De’Longhi All In One
Although this has some plastic finishes, the important, heated and pressurized parts are made from stainless steel. unfortunately, De’Longhi does not publicly specify whether the All In One coffee machine uses stainless steel grade 304 or 316 (also known as 18/8 or 18/10 steel). Most consumer reviews and product listings focus on features like the dual heating system, steam wand, and design but not the exact steel composition.
If you’re concerned about safety or durability, I recommend:
- Looking for NSF or food-grade certifications, which can offer reassurance even if the steel grade isn’t listed.
- Contacting De’Longhi customer support directly to ask about the steel grade.
- Checking the manual or product packaging, which sometimes includes material details (Maikel: but I couldn’t find any material information)
We used this machine like this for from De’Longhi and the coffee was tasting far less toxic in comparison to other populair machines so I think it should be okay but best is to do some extra research if you want the be 100% sure.
by: Maikel van Esdonk and Copilot + ChatGPT