Shots, Milk and Care

Pulling and fixing shots, tamping, frothing milk for lattes and keeping your machine clean and descaled.

  • Ninja Luxe Café Premier ES601
    Shots, Milk and Care

    Best Espresso Machines for Lattes at Home

    Compare the best espresso machine for lattes, from hands-free frothing to manual steam wands. Find a home machine that fits your space and routine.

  • Breville Barista Express BES870XL
    Shots, Milk and Care

    Best Espresso Machines With a Steam Wand

    Compare the best espresso machine with steam wand picks for home lattes and cappuccinos, from compact models to machines with built-in grinders.

  • Maestri House S2 Espresso Scale
    Shots, Milk and Care

    How Long Should You Pull an Espresso Shot?

    Learn how long to pull an espresso shot, what timing can tell you, and how to adjust grind, dose, and yield when a shot runs too fast or slow.

  • Urnex Dezcal Descaler
    Shots, Milk and Care

    How Often Should You Descale an Espresso Machine?

    Learn how often to descale an espresso machine, how water hardness and use affect the schedule, and how to follow your machine maker’s care instructions.

  • De'Longhi Milk Frothing Jug, 12 oz
    Shots, Milk and Care

    How to Froth Milk for a Latte or Cappuccino

    Learn how to froth milk for a latte or cappuccino, use an espresso machine steam wand, make foam without one, and pour it into your drink.

  • Ninja Luxe Café Premier ES601
    Shots, Milk and Care

    How to Make a Latte With an Espresso Machine

    Learn how to make a latte with an espresso machine, from pulling a balanced shot to steaming milk and pouring it smoothly into your cup.

  • 54mm Self-Leveling Tamper for Breville
    Shots, Milk and Care

    How to Tamp Espresso: Pressure, Level and Tools

    Learn how to tamp espresso with a level, steady press, choose useful tools, and spot common puck problems without chasing a specific pressure number.

  • Baratza Encore ESP
    Shots, Milk and Care

    Why Is My Espresso Sour? Simple Fixes to Try

    Why is my espresso sour? Learn how grind size, shot time, dose, and coffee freshness affect flavor, plus simple adjustments to try at home.