How To Clean And Descale The OXO 8‑Cup Coffee Maker (Model 8718800)

Keeping your OXO 8‑Cup Coffee Maker (model 8718800) clean and free of mineral buildup is essential for the machine to perform as designed. The official OXO 8‑Cup Coffee Maker (model 8718800) instruction manual provides a clear, model‑specific routine that distinguishes the Clean cycle from a normal brew, specifies the exact preparation and rinse sequence, and explains how to care for the stainless‑steel carafe without importing glass‑carafe or vinegar instructions.

Hands rinsing a generic stainless insulated coffee vessel and lid at a home kitchen sink. — Illustrative stainless coffee-carafe care scene; the pictured vessel is not identified as OXO model 8718800.

Table of Contents

When to Descale

The Clean button lights after every 90 brew cycles as a reminder to descale. Descaling frequency also depends on water hardness; using filtered water helps prevent mineral buildup.

Descaling Procedure (in order)

Four source-checked stages for descaling OXO 8-Cup model 8718800. — Model 8718800 descale overview from the OXO manual; follow the full instructions for lid and basket setup.

Fill the reservoir with the descaling solution and filtered water (not distilled water), following the solution directions, and do not exceed the MAX line. Source
Place the empty stainless‑steel carafe with its lid fully screwed on. Remove the paper filters and the Single‑Serve Accessory from the brew basket, then secure the brew basket. Source
Slide the switch to Carafe mode, press Power, and then press Clean. Source
Allow the Clean cycle to finish. The machine will chime and the Clean light will go out. The cycle takes about 25 minutes, varying with mineral deposits. Source
After descaling, fill the reservoir to MAX with clean water, run one 5‑to‑8‑cup water‑only brew cycle, and discard that water before brewing coffee. Source

Routine Carafe and Body Care

Manual-backed hand-washing and dishwasher warning for the stainless OXO 8-Cup carafe and lid. — OXO manual says hand-wash the stainless carafe and lid; do not put them in the dishwasher.

Unplug the machine and allow it to cool before hand‑washing the carafe or wiping the exterior. Source
Hand‑wash the stainless‑steel carafe and lid with mild detergent after each use, rinse thoroughly, and dry. The carafe is not dishwasher safe because the dishwasher compromises vacuum insulation. Source
For coffee‑oil stains inside the carafe, soak overnight with a small amount of dishwasher detergent and water. Source
If you use the Single‑Serve Accessory, rinse it after each use to prevent clogs or overflow. Source
Wipe the exterior of the machine with a damp cloth and dry it. Avoid alkaline cleaners, abrasive pads, harsh chemicals, or spray cleaners. Source
Do not immerse the coffee maker, power cord, or plug in water. Source

Common Issues and Fixes

Problem	Possible Cause	Solution
Brew takes more than eight minutes	Mineral obstruction	Follow descaling instructions above
Overflowing brew basket	Blocked drain hole	Clean with a soft‑bristled brush

By following this model‑specific routine, you will keep your OXO 8‑Cup Coffee Maker running smoothly, following the manufacturer’s model‑specific maintenance schedule.