Non-Toxic Guide to Coffee
I am definitely not trying to take away your beloved coffee but a lot of coffee makers are made of plastic or contain lead. HOWEVER, you know I found better alternatives for all you coffee lovers! Before we get to the better options, let’s look at things to avoid when shopping for coffee and coffee makers.
In this blog you will find: Classic Coffee Makers | Pour Over Coffee Maker | French Press | Espresso & Coffee Machine | Espresso Accessories | Coffee Filters | Mold Free Coffee | Coffee Storage | Coffee Mugs | Coffee Flavors | Coffee Creamer
Toxic Materials to Avoid in Coffee Makers:
BPA (Bisphenol A): Often found in polycarbonate plastics, BPA can leach into your coffee, especially when plastic components are exposed to hot water. BPA exposure is linked to various health problems, including hormonal disruptions and heart issues.
Aluminum: While less common, some coffee makers still feature aluminum elements. Acidic drinks like coffee can cause aluminum to corrode and leach into your brew, potentially leading to a metallic taste and health risks.
Lead and Cadmium: These heavy metals can be found in the soldering of some coffee machines or the glazes used in ceramic parts. Both lead and cadmium are highly toxic and dangerous even in small amounts.
PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances): Sometimes used in non-stick coatings within coffee pots and other appliances, PFAS are a group of chemicals linked to a range of health issues, including cancer and liver damage. They are persistent in the environment and difficult to avoid completely, but awareness and careful choice can significantly reduce exposure.
Choosing a Safer Coffee Maker:
To minimize your exposure to these toxins, consider the following tips when selecting a coffee maker:
Opt for Stainless Steel: Choose coffee makers that primarily use stainless steel in their water reservoirs and brewing mechanisms. Stainless steel is not only durable but also resists leaching, ensuring that your coffee remains pure and safe.
Look for BPA-Free Labels: Many manufacturers now specify if their products are BPA-free. Check for this label, especially on models that use plastic components.
Consider Glass or Ceramic: For those who prefer a different material, glass and certified lead-free ceramic are excellent alternatives. These materials do not leach chemicals and can withstand high temperatures without degrading.
Avoid Non-Stick Coatings: Be cautious of coffee makers with non-stick interiors, which may contain PFAS. Instead, look for models without such coatings to keep your coffee free from these harmful chemicals.
By choosing your coffee maker wisely and paying attention to the materials used in its construction, you can enjoy your daily coffee ritual without the worry of unwanted chemicals. A little awareness goes a long way in safeguarding your health against the hidden dangers lurking in everyday appliances. Happy brewing!
*it can be hard to find a 100% plastic free coffee makers (basically impossible unless you choose a pour over or french press) but I made sure to find BPA free options with minimal plastic.
Balance is so important while you are ditching toxins (you know I use the 80/20 rule) so don’t beat yourself up if your coffee maker has a few plastic pieces. All of these coffee makers are BPA free which is the best option if you do have plastic.
CLASSIC COFFEE MAKERS:
OXO Brew 8 Cup Coffee Maker
Stainless steel | Affordable | Sleek Look | 8 cup | BPA Free | Can make a single cup as well as a pot
Moccamaster Coffee Maker
Stainless Steel & Glass | 10 Cup | Quick Brew | Looks Premium |
Pour Over Coffee Maker
Glass | Affordable | Easy to clean & store | Comes with reusable stainless steel filter |
Glass French Press
Glass | Affordable | Quick Coffee | Easy to use | Can make cold brew | Last Forever
Stainless Steel French Press
*any glass or stainless steel french press is approved by me - I pick the 2 highly rate french presses Espressione Drip & Espresso Coffee Maker
Stainless Steel & Glass | Drip Coffee | Espresso | Milk Frother | 10 Cup
Sean is the coffee drinker in our house and wanted a drip and espresso combination maker. I found this one that is majority glass and stainless steel. It also includes a milk frother! We just got it, I will keep you updated with how we like it. I am not too worried about the few plastic elements because it is BPA free and a much better option than the rest of the coffee/espresso combos. You've got to get what is going to work best for you while be conscious of toxins. 80/20 besties.1.5 week update: We LOVE it! So easy to use and makes great espresso. Love that is has the milk frother attached too - cold foam who?! No complaints so far - I will keep you updated!
De'Longhi Combination Coffee Maker & Espresso
Stainless Steel & Plastic | BPA Free | Includes Milk Frother | 10 Cup
It does contain some plastic but those parts are not heated up so you don’t have to worry. Espresso Accessories
Always opt for glass or stainless steel!
Coffee Pot Filters
Instead of using the one use bleached paper coffee filters opt for a reusable stainless steel filter or if you have to use the paper ones…get the unbleached!
8-12 Cup Reusable Coffee Filter | Stainless Steel | No Waste | Easy to clean
We have this one and it works great! 
Unbleached Natural Coffee Filter | 8-12 Cup | Affordable
Coffee Beans:
Now lets talk about the actual coffee beans! Yes, unfortunately there can toxins like mold in your coffee beans or grounds. The mold is the main concern in coffee so here is what to look for to ensure you are getting high-quality mold free coffee and brands to shop!
Choosing mold-free coffee is essential for enjoying a healthier and tastier brew. Here are some key steps to ensure your coffee is mold-free:
Look for Certified Brands: Choose coffee brands that are certified organic. Organic certifications often involve rigorous quality control measures that reduce the likelihood of mold contamination.
Check for Specialty Certifications: Certifications such as “Clean Coffee,” “Mold-Free,” or “Mycotoxin-Free” indicate that the coffee has been tested and verified to be free from mold and mycotoxins. Brands like Bulletproof and Purity Coffee specifically test for these contaminants.
Research the Brand's Quality Control: Investigate the brand’s processing and quality control measures. Reputable brands will often share information about their harvesting, drying, and storage processes, which are critical for preventing mold growth.
Read Reviews and Lab Tests: Look for independent reviews and lab test results. Some third-party organizations and consumer groups test coffee for mold and mycotoxins, and their findings can be insightful.
Proper Storage: Once you have your coffee, store it properly. Keep your coffee beans or grounds in an airtight container in a cool, dry place to prevent mold growth.
Buy Fresh, Whole Beans: Purchasing fresh, whole beans and grinding them just before brewing can also reduce the risk of mold. Whole beans are less likely to have mold compared to pre-ground coffee, which has a larger surface area exposed to moisture and contaminants.
By following these steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of mold in your coffee and enjoy a healthier, more flavorful cup each time.
Shop mold-free organic coffee 👇
Lifeboost Coffee:
Organic | Mold Free | Pesticide Free | Toxin Free | Lots of variety (whole bean, ground, espresso beans, decaf)
Purity Coffee
Organic | Mold Free | Pesticide Free | Sustainably Farmed | Dark Roast, Medium Roast and Decaf
Clean Coffee Co.
Mold Free | Pesticide Free | Good for Iced Coffee | Medium & Dark Roast | Ground or Whole Beans
Natural Force:
Organic | Certified B Corp | Mold Free | Tested for Mold Annually | Medium & Dark | Whole Bean & Ground
Storing your coffee beans or ground in an airtight glass or stainless steel jar in a dark dry space is ideal to reduce the chance of mold! Here are some good options:
The best option for coffee mugs are glass or stainless steel! Ceramic isn’t a terrible option either but definitely avoid plastic. Here are some of my favorite non-toxic coffee mugs & travel cups!
Coffee flavors can be filled with artificial sweeteners, flavors or dyes but I found that the organic line of Monin syrups have good ingredients! (Organic flavor is significantly better than natural flavors)
Coffee creamers with all clean ingredients can be hard to find! I do my best to avoid natural flavors, artificial sweeteners and inflammatory oils like canola, vegetable or sunflower oil. Here are some better options! Making your own is the best option.
Was this guide helpful?! I would love for you to share it with a friend!
Reminder: An 80/20 balance is so important to maintain a non-tox lifestyle without going crazy or getting overwhelmed. Make one small swap at a time…if you are on this blog post that means you care about the ingredients in your everyday products and that is the first step to ditching toxins!
Proud of you - enjoy your coffee!
Karly Alane