Let’s break it all down so you can make the best choice for both your coffee and your equipment.

Why Water Quality Matters for Your Espresso Machine

Espresso is around 95% water, so it makes sense that water quality affects both taste and performance. Hard water can create limescale, which damages internal components. On the other hand, water that’s too pure can also cause problems. That's why choosing the best water for espresso machines isn’t just about purity — it's about balance.

Is Distilled Water Safe to Use?

Many people assume that using distilled water for coffee is a smart move — after all, it’s super clean, right? Not quite.

Here’s the deal:

• Distilled water has zero minerals. While this means no limescale, it also means there's nothing to help extract flavors from your coffee grounds.
  
  

• It can corrode metal parts inside your espresso machine over time because it’s "hungry" water — it wants to absorb minerals, and it may take them from your machine.
  
  

• Many coffee equipment brands actually recommend against using distilled water for this very reason.
  
  

So, while distilled water sounds good on paper, it's not ideal for most espresso machines straight from the bottle.

How to Safely Use Distilled Water for Coffee

If your local tap water is hard or full of contaminants, you might still want to start with distilled water. The trick? Add minerals back in.

Yes, adding minerals to distilled water is a real (and smart) thing.

You can do this in two main ways:

• Mineral packets (like Third Wave Water): Simply pour the packet into a gallon of distilled water, shake, and you’re good to go.
  
  

• DIY mineral blends: If you're comfortable measuring small amounts of things like magnesium sulfate or calcium chloride, you can customize your water exactly the way you want it.
  
  

This way, you get the cleanliness of distilled water, plus the essential minerals needed for great espresso flavor and machine safety.

What About a Distilled Water Machine?

If you want total control over your water source, you might consider buying a distilled water machine. These devices purify water at home by boiling and re-condensing it, leaving behind all minerals and impurities.

They’re useful if:

• Your tap water is poor quality
  
  

• You want consistent results
  
  

• You’re planning to remineralize your distilled water for espresso
  
  

Just remember: never use 100% distilled water in your espresso machine unless you’ve added the right minerals.

The Bottom Line

So, is distilled water good for espresso machines? Not by itself.

The best water for espresso machines is clean, lightly mineralized, and balanced. If you're using distilled water, make sure you're adding minerals to distilled water before brewing. Whether you use filtered water, spring water, or create your own blend using a distilled water machine, just remember: your water is just as important as your beans.

FAQs

Can I use distilled water in an espresso machine?

Only if you add minerals first. Using pure distilled water can cause internal damage over time.

What is the best water for espresso machines?

Filtered or spring water with balanced minerals. Ideal mineral content includes calcium, magnesium, and a TDS of 75–250 ppm.

Why is distilled water bad for coffee machines?

Because it lacks minerals, it can be corrosive and result in flat-tasting coffee.

How do I add minerals to distilled water?

You can use commercial mineral packets or DIY with safe mineral additives like magnesium sulfate and calcium chloride.

Should I buy a distilled water machine?

It’s a good idea if your tap water is hard or inconsistent, but always remineralize the water before using it in an espresso machine.