Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the safe and efficient operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your Tchibo Cafissimo Classic Capsule Coffee Machine. Please read these instructions carefully before first use and keep them for future reference.

Image: Front view of the Tchibo Cafissimo Classic Capsule Coffee Machine with a prepared cup of coffee.
Safety Instructions
Always observe the following safety precautions to prevent injury or damage to the appliance:
- Ensure the machine is placed on a stable, level, and heat-resistant surface.
- Do not immerse the machine, power cord, or plug in water or other liquids.
- Keep the appliance out of reach of children.
- Unplug the machine from the power outlet before cleaning or when not in use for extended periods.
- Do not operate the machine if the power cord or plug is damaged, or if the machine malfunctions or has been damaged in any way.
- Only use original Tchibo Cafissimo capsules with this machine.
- Be cautious of hot surfaces and steam during operation.
Product Overview
Familiarize yourself with the components of your Cafissimo Classic machine:

Image: Diagram illustrating the main components of the Tchibo Cafissimo Classic machine, including water level indicator, selection buttons for filter coffee, Caffè Crema, and Espresso, rotary knob for milk frothing, On/Off button, 1.5-liter water tank, capsule holder, swivel milk frothing nozzle, and drip tray with float.
- Water Level Indicator: Shows the current water level in the tank.
- Selection Buttons: Dedicated buttons for Espresso, Caffè Crema, and Filter Coffee.
- Rotary Knob: Used to activate and control the milk frothing function.
- On/Off Button: Powers the machine on or off.
- Water Tank: Removable 1.2-liter tank located at the back.
- Capsule Holder: Area where the coffee capsule is inserted.
- Swivel Milk Frothing Nozzle: For frothing milk for specialty coffees.
- Drip Tray with Float: Collects excess liquid and indicates when it needs emptying.
- Foldable Espresso Table: Adjustable cup stand for different cup sizes.
Setup
- Unpacking: Carefully remove all packaging materials and ensure all parts are present.
- First Rinse: Before first use, fill the water tank with fresh water. Place a large container under the coffee outlet. Run a cycle without a capsule for each coffee type (Espresso, Caffè Crema, Filter Coffee) to rinse the internal system.
- Water Tank: Fill the removable 1.2-liter water tank with fresh, cold drinking water. Ensure the tank is properly seated.
- Power Connection: Plug the machine into a grounded power outlet (230V).
- Preheating: Press the On/Off button. The machine will begin to preheat. The coffee buttons will flash and then illuminate steadily when the machine is ready for use.
Operating Instructions
Making Coffee (Espresso, Caffè Crema, Filter Coffee)
- Ensure the machine is preheated and the coffee buttons are steadily lit.
- Open the capsule holder and insert a Tchibo Cafissimo capsule. Close the holder firmly.
- Place a cup on the drip tray, adjusting the foldable espresso table if necessary for smaller cups.
- Press the desired coffee button (Espresso, Caffè Crema, or Filter Coffee). The machine will start brewing.
- The brewing process will stop automatically. Remove the used capsule by opening the holder; it will drop into the integrated capsule container.
Milk Frothing for Specialty Coffees
The integrated milk frothing nozzle allows you to prepare frothed milk for cappuccino and latte macchiato.

Image: A hand using the swivel milk frothing nozzle of the Tchibo Cafissimo Classic to froth milk in a metal pitcher.
- Fill a pitcher with cold milk (preferably cold, fresh milk for best results).
- Swivel the milk frothing nozzle over the drip tray and briefly open the steam valve using the rotary knob to release any condensed water. Close the valve.
- Submerge the nozzle tip into the milk in the pitcher.
- Turn the rotary knob to open the steam valve. Steam will be released, frothing the milk. Move the pitcher up and down slightly to achieve desired froth consistency.
- Once desired froth is achieved, close the steam valve by turning the rotary knob.
- Immediately clean the milk frothing nozzle after use by wiping it with a damp cloth and briefly releasing steam to clear any milk residue.
Maintenance
Daily Cleaning
- Drip Tray and Capsule Container: Empty and rinse the drip tray and used capsule container daily.
- Water Tank: Rinse the water tank and refill with fresh water daily.
- Coffee Outlet: Wipe the coffee outlet area with a damp cloth.
- Milk Frothing Nozzle: Clean immediately after each use as described in the operating instructions.
Descaling
The machine features an integrated descaling warning. When the descaling indicator lights up, it's time to descale your machine. Regular descaling is crucial for maintaining performance and extending the lifespan of your machine.
- Refer to the specific descaling instructions provided with your descaling solution.
- Typically, you will empty the water tank, fill it with descaling solution and water according to the product's instructions, and place a large container under the coffee outlet.
- Follow the machine's descaling program (usually initiated by pressing and holding specific buttons, refer to the full manual for exact steps).
- After the descaling cycle, rinse the water tank thoroughly and run several cycles with fresh water to flush out any remaining descaling solution.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Machine does not turn on. | No power supply. | Check if the power plug is securely inserted into the outlet. Check the fuse. |
| No coffee is dispensed. | Water tank is empty; capsule not inserted correctly; machine is clogged. | Fill the water tank. Ensure the capsule is correctly placed and the holder is closed. Perform a descaling cycle. |
| Coffee is not hot enough. | Machine not fully preheated; limescale buildup. | Wait until the coffee buttons are steadily lit. Descale the machine. |
| Milk frothing is insufficient. | Nozzle is clogged; milk is not cold enough; incorrect milk type. | Clean the frothing nozzle thoroughly. Use cold, fresh milk. Try different milk types (e.g., full-fat milk). |
| Descaling indicator lights up. | Limescale buildup detected. | Perform a descaling cycle as soon as possible. |
Specifications

Image: A diagram showing the Tchibo Cafissimo Classic machine with its height indicated as 38.0 cm.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | Tchibo |
| Model Number | 288032 |
| Color | Piano Black |
| Product Dimensions | 20 x 38 x 29 cm; 1 Kilogram |
| Water Tank Capacity | 1.2 Liters |
| Power/Wattage | 1050 Watts |
| Voltage | 230 Volts |
| Material | Plastic |
| Automatic Shut-off | Yes |
| Compatible Models | Tchibo Cafissimo Capsules |
| Special Features | Programmable, Milk Frothing Nozzle, 3 Brewing Pressure Levels |
Warranty and Support
For warranty information and customer support, please refer to the documentation included with your purchase or visit the official Tchibo website. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
Online Resources: For additional support, FAQs, and product registration, please visit the Tchibo official website.





