Cafetieres
Reliable cafetieres for full-bodied coffee, day in, day out. Whether you’re after a quick 3-cup or something bigger to share, these French presses are simple, solid and built to last. We’ve picked glass, stainless steel and ceramic designs that hold heat well and clean up easily. No fuss. Just good coffee, made well.
Cafetiere FAQs
How do you make great coffee in a cafetiere?
To make great coffee in a cafetiere, use freshly ground beans and water just off the boil (94°C hits the spot). Pop in a coarse grind, pour in water, stir, then pop the lid on. Wait 4 minutes, press down slowly and pour. It’s gloriously simple, but getting the temperature and timing right makes your brew sing. Too hot or too fine, and you may end up with a muddy cup. Not ideal.
What’s the right amount of coffee to use in a cafetiere?
For balanced coffee in a cafetiere, aim for 60g per litre of water - around one heaped tablespoon per 125ml. That’s roughly 8 tablespoons for a standard 1L cafetiere. It’s a solid place to start, and you can tweak to taste from there. A kitchen scale helps if you're channelling your inner barista.
Can you use a cafetiere to make espresso-style coffee?
A cafetiere can’t make espresso-style coffee, as it lacks the pressure needed to pull a proper shot. Espresso relies on high pressure to extract that thick crema and bold flavour. You can try a finer grind and less water for a stronger brew, but it won’t hit espresso territory. For the real deal, you’ll need a dedicated machine.
Which is the most durable cafetiere for everyday use?
The most durable cafetiere for everyday use is usually made from stainless steel or borosilicate glass with a solid frame. Look for a tough mesh filter, quality seals and a design with replaceable parts. Some even come with up to 10-year warranties. That’s a proper long-term brew companion.
What’s the best way to clean and care for a cafetiere?
The best way to clean a cafetiere is to rinse it right after use, before the coffee grounds dig in their heels. Disassemble it fully, then wash with warm, soapy water. Many are dishwasher-safe, though handwashing helps filters and seals last longer. A monthly deep clean with bicarbonate of soda keeps things fresh.
How long should you brew coffee in a French press?
You should brew coffee in a French press for four minutes, no more, no less. This sweet spot allows full flavour without tipping into bitterness. Start with a coarse grind, add hot water, stir once, then pop the lid on and wait. Press gently and pour - no faffing required.
What type of coffee works best in a cafetiere?
The type of coffee that works best in a cafetiere is coarse-ground, freshly roasted beans. Lighter or medium roasts shine, with their delicate flavours suited to the gentler brew. A coarser grind also keeps sediment at bay and gives the mesh filter an easier time. For more gear, explore our coffee-making range.