How to Use a Nespresso VertuoPlus

On this page (8 sections)

1. How do you prepare a Nespresso VertuoPlus?
2. How do you brew a capsule?
3. What should you do when the brew finishes?
4. How do you choose the right cup and capsule?
5. What if the machine does not brew?
6. Is a VertuoPlus the same as an Essenza Mini?
7. Which VertuoPlus machine can you use?
8. How do you use a Nespresso VertuoPlus every day?

To use a Nespresso VertuoPlus, fill the water tank, insert a Vertuo capsule, lock the head, and press the button. The machine reads the capsule barcode and sets the brew, so you choose the capsule and cup rather than a manual brew size.

For a first cup, start with a compatible capsule and an empty cup under the outlet. After brewing, wait for the cycle to stop before opening the head and clearing the used capsule.

How do you prepare a Nespresso VertuoPlus?

Prepare a Nespresso VertuoPlus by filling its water tank and checking that the machine is ready. Follow the manual for first-use rinsing, cleaning, and setup steps for your exact model.

Set the machine on a dry, level counter with enough room to open its head and position a cup below the outlet. Fill the tank with fresh drinking water and seat it as the manual shows.

The VertuoPlus Deluxe model includes a 60 oz water tank. Keep the tank filled enough for the cup you plan to brew, and refill it when needed.

How do you brew a capsule?

To brew, place a cup under the outlet, insert one Vertuo capsule, close and lock the head, then press the button. The capsule barcode controls the brew parameters for that capsule.

Use a capsule made for the Vertuo system. Vertuo capsules and Nespresso Original capsules belong to different systems, so check Nespresso Original vs Vertuo capsules if you are unsure which type you have.

When the button stops and the brew is complete, remove the cup. Open the head only after the machine has stopped, then let the used capsule drop into the container.

Why does the VertuoPlus read a capsule barcode?

The VertuoPlus reads a barcode on the rim of a compatible capsule and automatically sets brewing parameters. That is why you should use the intended capsule type and let the cycle finish.

A capsule also determines the drink style and serving size. For instance, the Nespresso Vertuo variety pack includes 30 capsules in Stormio, Odacio, and Melozio blends, each designed for a 7.8 oz coffee serving.

The pack gives you several coffee blends to try with your machine. Check the capsule packaging for the intended cup size and follow the machine manual if you need guidance on cup placement.

What should you do when the brew finishes?

When brewing finishes, wait for the machine to stop, remove your cup, then open the head to eject the capsule. Empty the used capsule container before it gets too full.

The VertuoPlus Deluxe is described as holding up to 17 used capsules. Capacity can vary with capsule size, so check the container regularly and empty it when needed.

Nespresso says its aluminum capsules are recyclable and offers different recycling options. Check which options are available where you live, and follow local recycling guidance.

How do you choose the right cup and capsule?

Choose a capsule based on the drink you want, then use the cup size intended for that capsule. The VertuoPlus Deluxe model offers 4 brew sizes: 5 oz and 8 oz coffee, plus single and double espresso.

The product description gives more specific sizes of 1.35 oz espresso, 2.7 oz double espresso, 5 oz gran lungo, and 7.7 oz coffee. Follow the capsule instructions for the actual serving, since capsules are designed for particular sizes.

The Vertuo capsules variety pack is a straightforward way to try coffee blends for longer servings. For the difference between the two machine families, see Nespresso Vertuo vs VertuoPlus.

Can you pour VertuoPlus coffee over ice?

Yes, you can pour brewed coffee over ice, but brew the capsule as directed first. The machine's capsule barcode sets its brew, and ice goes in the cup afterward.

The VertuoPlus Deluxe is described as suitable for coffee served hot or over ice. For an iced drink, use a cup that leaves enough room for both the brewed coffee and ice.

What if the machine does not brew?

If the machine does not brew, check the water tank, capsule position, and head lock before trying again. Use the manual's troubleshooting steps for any warning light or unusual behavior.

Make sure the tank is seated and has water, and verify the capsule is a Vertuo type. Remove a capsule only when the machine is stopped, and don't force the head if it feels stuck.

If the machine still won't run, check its manual for the light pattern and contact Nespresso support as directed. Avoid taking the machine apart unless the manual instructs you to do so.

Is a VertuoPlus the same as an Essenza Mini?

No, a VertuoPlus uses Vertuo capsules, while the Essenza Mini uses Nespresso Original capsules. They are separate systems, so capsules aren't interchangeable.

The Breville Nespresso Original Essenza Mini offers 2 one-touch cup sizes and is described as compatible with Nespresso Original pods. For other options, see our best Breville pod machines.

It won't brew the Vertuo capsules used by the VertuoPlus.

If you are comparing compact-machine bundles, our Nespresso Essenza Mini bundle guide explains when a milk frother may be useful. To understand the capsule systems first, read how a capsule espresso machine works.

Which VertuoPlus machine can you use?

The VertuoPlus Deluxe Coffee and Espresso Maker is a single-serve machine for Vertuo coffee and espresso capsules. Its listed features include 4 cup sizes and an extra-large 60 oz water tank.

The machine's capsule barcode reading sets the brew parameters, while the button starts brewing. Use the model's manual for setup, care, and troubleshooting instructions.

For a closer look at this machine's features and fit, see our Nespresso VertuoPlus review. The review can help you decide whether its capsule system and cup sizes suit your routine.

How do you use a Nespresso VertuoPlus every day?

For everyday use, keep water in the tank, brew with a compatible Vertuo capsule, and empty the used capsule container regularly. Follow the manual for cleaning and descaling intervals.

Use the capsule's intended serving size, place a cup beneath the outlet, and let the automatic cycle finish. Recycle used capsules through an available program where possible.

Choose the VertuoPlus if you want its Vertuo capsule system and listed coffee and espresso sizes. Choose an Essenza Mini only if you want the separate Original capsule system.

Frequently asked questions

How do you use a Nespresso VertuoPlus for the first time?

Set the machine on a stable surface, fill and seat the water tank, and follow the model's manual for first-use rinsing or setup. Once it is ready, place a cup under the outlet, insert a compatible Vertuo capsule, close and lock the head, then press the button to brew.

Which capsules work in a Nespresso VertuoPlus?

Use capsules made for the Nespresso Vertuo system. Vertuo capsules are not compatible with OriginalLine machines, and Original capsules are not the right type for a VertuoPlus.

Check the capsule packaging for Vertuo compatibility before inserting it.

Can you stop a VertuoPlus while it is brewing?

The machine brews based on the capsule's barcode, so let the cycle finish for the intended serving. If you need to stop a cycle, follow the manual for your exact model and avoid opening the head while the machine is running.

How do you remove a used capsule from a VertuoPlus?

After brewing has stopped, open the head according to the machine's instructions; the used capsule is ejected into the container. Empty the container when it is full, and recycle aluminum capsules through an option available in your area.