Best Water for Espresso Machines: Use Distilled + Minerals

Making café-quality espresso at home is more accessible than ever, especially in coffee-loving countries like the Netherlands. But one overlooked element often separates a good cup from a great one: the water. In this blog, we’ll explore why a distilled water espresso machine — with added minerals — might be the best choice for your espresso machine, your coffee’s flavor, and even your wallet.

Why Water Quality Matters for Espresso Machines

In cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague, tap water is clean and safe — but it's often hard (rich in minerals like calcium and magnesium). Over time, these minerals build up inside your best water for espresso machines causing scale, reducing efficiency, and increasing the risk of damage.

If you’ve invested in a high-end espresso machine, protecting it should be a priority. That’s why many baristas and home brewers in the Netherlands are switching to adding minerals to distilled water.

Is Distilled Water Good for Espresso Machines?

Yes, but with a twist. 1 liter distilled water is free from minerals, which is great for machine longevity. However, it can negatively affect coffee flavor because it lacks the essential minerals that help extract the full taste from coffee grounds.

That’s where mineral additives come in.

Enhancing Distilled Water: The Third Wave Coffee Approach

Third Wave Water, a startup that gained popularity after its appearance on Shark Tank, offers a practical solution. They provide mineral packets designed to mix with 1 liter of distilled water, creating the ideal water chemistry for espresso.

This method is part of a broader Third Wave Coffee philosophy — one that focuses on highlighting the natural flavors and origins of high-quality beans.

You simply:

1. Get distilled water (bottled or from a distilled water machine at home).
   
   

2. Add a Third Wave Water mineral packet.
   
   

3. Pour the mineralized water into your espresso machine.
   
   

4. Brew — and taste the difference.
   
   

Where to Buy Distilled Water in the Netherlands

• Pharmacies (Apotheek): Often sell 1-liter bottles of distilled water.
  
  

• Supermarkets: Some carry it in cleaning or ironing sections.
  
  

• Online retailers like Bol.com or Amazon.nl: You can find both distilled water and Third Wave Water.
  
  

• DIY: You can buy a distilled water machine if you want to produce it at home in bulk.
  
  

FAQ: Distilled Water and Espresso Machines

Q: Can I use tap water in my espresso machine?
A: Tap water in the Netherlands is clean but often too hard for espresso machines. It may cause scaling and damage over time.

Q: Is distilled water safe for my espresso machine?
A: Absolutely. It helps prevent scale buildup. Just add minerals to improve flavor.

Q: Do I need to add minerals to distilled water for coffee?
A: Yes, if you care about taste. Distilled water lacks the minerals needed for proper extraction.

Q: What is Third Wave Water?
A: It’s a mineral supplement designed for adding to 1 liter of distilled water to create the perfect brewing water for espresso and other coffee methods.

Q: Where can I buy Third Wave Water in the Netherlands?
A: Online stores like Bol.com or specialty coffee retailers.

Conclusion

In a country that appreciates both craftsmanship and sustainability, using distilled water — enhanced with minerals — is a smart move for Dutch coffee lovers. It protects your espresso machine, ensures consistent brew quality, and enhances your coffee’s flavor.

Whether you're in Utrecht, Eindhoven, or Groningen, brewing espresso with the right water puts you one step closer to café-level quality — right from your kitchen.