Grab a soft brush (a bottle brush or a clean toothbrush works—just not the one you use on your teeth, please) and scrub the reservoir’s interior. Focus on corners and the nozzle where the water comes out, because that’s where the bacterial parties happen. You’ll likely find a film that feels like a slick, alien egg sac; scrub it away with vengeance.
Now, flush the system: run fresh water through the dispenser (both taps) until the vinegar smell is gone. It usually takes two or three full rinses—don’t skip this, or your morning coffee will taste like a salad dressing. I speak from bitter experience, and let me tell you, a vinaigrette latte is not a trend worth starting.
