The single-serve K-cups took the coffee lovers by storm. The idea of enjoying a hot cup of brew within seconds was well-embraced. However, the environmental impact of this one-time use of plastic waste was a deep concern. The ecological problems were put to rest with the introduction of the best reusable k-cup which gives the same single-serve and convenience without impacting the climate.
What Are The Reusable K-Cups?
The reusable K-cups are made of stainless steel and plastic in varying percentages. Read below to know what you should look for to find the best reusable cup in the market. K- cups are manufactured by many companies today. The makers take care to ensure that the k-cups are compatible with as many coffee models as possible.
Here are a few aspects that should be kept in mind when shopping for reusable k-cups.
Capacity
The reusable k-cups offer different fill lines. Usually, these hold two tablespoons or two teaspoons of ground coffee which is the standard. The more ground you can fill in the K-cup does not mean that the coffee will be stronger. If you overfill the K-cup then this will give you a weak coffee as the water will not be able to penetrate the ground to release the coffee flavor. In turn, it only causes a mess.
Material
K-cups are made of plastic and stainless steel. The plastic model should be eco-friendly and BPA-free to avoid chemical exposure. Some models have a lid and frame made of plastic and a mesh of stainless steel. Others have a stainless steel basket and perforated holes instead of a mesh or stainless steel.
Either kind is fine, be it plastic or metal. They work equally well. The models that are made of stainless steel will cost more because they can withstand the dishwasher heat much better than the plastic models. However, if both of them are gently hand washed, then these can last for years to come.
Mesh Size
The mesh size affects the coffee grind. It will be determined by the fine or coarse texture of the grind and will ultimately decide on the coffee flavor. A fine mesh will give you a fine ground and thus a strong flavor. A fine mesh will also not let the grounds get in the coffee. A wide mesh is suited for coarse grinds, which need more time for the water to penetrate through it and extract the coffee flavors.
Compatibility
The reusable K-cups should be compatible with several machines. Make sure to check this list first to not end up with a K-cup that does not fit into your machine.
Standard Vs. Reusable K-Cups
The standard disposable varieties are made of plastic and foil and are suited for single use. Once these are placed in the machine chamber, small needles perforate the lid of the foil and the plastic bottom of the pod. This lets the hot and pressurized water get in, and the brewed coffee comes out. These empty pods are then trashed, which is indeed not a suitable option.
The best reusable K-cup, on the other hand, needs to be first filled with ground coffee, and then these should be inserted into the machine. Once the cup is filled, it gives the same convenience of a single-serve, letting the user make their blend. If the reusable K-cups are cared for properly, then these last for several years depending on how you use them and whether you hand wash them or put them in a dishwasher.
