Bodum Caffettiera French Press Coffee Maker (Model 1918-01) Instruction Manual

Introduction

The Bodum Caffettiera French Press Coffee Maker offers a classic method for brewing aromatic coffee. This simple brewing technique extracts essential oils from freshly ground coffee, resulting in a rich flavor with minimal sediment. The design features a chrome-plated steel frame, a plastic handle and lid for heat protection, and a durable glass carafe. This method provides a pure coffee experience, avoiding the waste associated with single-serve capsules.

Product Components

Figure 1: Assembled Bodum Caffettiera French Press Coffee Maker, showing the glass carafe, chrome-plated steel frame, black handle, and plunger with lid.

• Glass Carafe: Heat-resistant borosilicate glass for brewing.
• Stainless Steel Frame: Provides structural support and protects the glass carafe.
• Lid with Plunger: Features a stainless steel filter mesh and a plastic knob for pressing.
• Handle: Ergonomically designed plastic handle for safe pouring.

Setup and First Use

1. Unpack: Carefully remove all components from the packaging.
2. Wash: Before first use, wash the glass carafe, plunger, and lid in warm, soapy water. Rinse thoroughly and dry. All parts are dishwasher-safe.
3. Assemble: Place the glass carafe securely into the stainless steel frame. Ensure the handle is aligned with the pouring spout.

Operating Instructions: Brewing Coffee

1. Pre-heat (Optional): Pour a small amount of hot water into the carafe and swirl it around to warm the glass. Discard the water.
2. Add Coffee Grounds: For optimal results, use coarse ground coffee. A general ratio is 1 tablespoon (7 grams) of coffee for every 4 ounces (120 ml) of water. Adjust to personal preference.
   

   Figure 2: Coarse ground coffee being added to the empty glass carafe.

3. Add Hot Water: Heat fresh water to just below boiling (around 200°F / 93°C). Pour the hot water evenly over the coffee grounds. Ensure all grounds are saturated.
   

   Figure 3: Hot water being poured over coffee grounds in the French press.
4. Stir: Gently stir the coffee and water with a plastic or wooden spoon (avoid metal spoons to prevent scratching the glass).
5. Place Lid and Steep: Place the lid on the carafe with the plunger pulled all the way up. Allow the coffee to steep for 3-4 minutes. For stronger coffee, steep longer.
6. Press the Plunger: Slowly and steadily press the plunger down. Apply gentle, even pressure. Do not force the plunger down. This separates the coffee grounds from the brewed coffee.
   

   Figure 4: A hand gently pressing the plunger down to separate coffee grounds.

7. Serve: Pour the freshly brewed coffee immediately to prevent over-extraction.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Regular cleaning ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your French press.

1. Discard Grounds: Once coffee is served, carefully remove the plunger and lid. Discard the used coffee grounds.
2. Rinse: Rinse all components under warm running water to remove any remaining coffee residue.
3. Wash: All parts of the Bodum Caffettiera French Press are dishwasher-safe. Alternatively, hand wash with warm, soapy water and a soft sponge. For thorough cleaning, the plunger assembly can be unscrewed and disassembled.
4. Dry: Ensure all parts are completely dry before reassembling and storing to prevent water spots or mineral buildup.

Troubleshooting

• Coffee is too weak:
  • Increase the amount of coffee grounds used.
  • Use a finer grind (but not too fine, as it can clog the filter).
  • Increase steeping time.
  • Ensure water temperature is hot enough (around 200°F / 93°C).
• Coffee is too strong/bitter:
  • Decrease the amount of coffee grounds used.
  • Use a coarser grind.
  • Decrease steeping time.
• Excessive sediment in coffee:
  • Ensure you are using coarse ground coffee. Fine grounds will pass through the filter.
  • Check if the filter mesh is properly seated and not damaged.
  • Press the plunger slowly and steadily.
• Plunger is difficult to press:
  • The coffee grounds might be too fine, creating too much resistance. Use a coarser grind.
  • Ensure the filter mesh is clean and free of clogs.
  • Do not force the plunger; if it's too difficult, lift it slightly and try again with less pressure.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

For specific warranty information and customer support, please refer to the documentation included with your product or visit the official Bodum website. Bodum offers replacement parts for their French press mechanisms.

You can visit the Bodum Store on Amazon for more products and information.