Last Updated on September 24, 2021 by John Moretti
While we might be coffee crazy, I mean enthusiasts, we care about the environment and the impact our demand for the precious cup of Joe has on it.
That is why we’ve been pressuring the manufacturers of K-Cups for more sustainable productions that will make us feel good inside for more reasons than one, and they’ve heeded the call with reusable K-Cups.
Now, not all K-Cups are created equal, and that brings us to the reason for today’s article; identifying The 5 Best Reusable K-Cups. I’ve tried them all and want to help you choose the best suits your lifestyle.
After reviewing all the reusable K-Cups out there, I came up with these five that, despite their minor disadvantages, still outshine the rest. Top of the list is:
Keurig’s K-Cup Universal Filter
No matter what model Keurig machine you have, the K-Cup Universal filter’s design comes equipped to match it. It means the filter should fit Keurig 1.0 and 2.0 models, and that extends to both the Keurig Mini and Plus Series coffee makers as well.
The cup comes with an adapter for Plus Series models, but if you remove it, you may use it with Mini-Series as well. The filter’s plastic components are all BPA-free.
We will know the quantity of coffee required for a typical cup or a travel tumbler by the two clear markings on the K-Cups. The adaptor appears to be a cause of uncertainty, as some customers claim to have difficulty hooking up the cup on various versions.
Different versions of the K-Cup Universal fit with various Keurig coffee machines contribute to the misunderstanding.
The filter basket, lid, and filter holder make up the K-Cup universal. The adapter for the Plus Series is also in the filter holder. Remove the Plus Series adaptor if you have a Classic Series brewer. Before using the Classic, you’ll also need to detach the filter’s pod attachment part.
Sure, neither series requires a lot of effort. However, it may be more straightforward to use a filter that will not require any adjustments.
This one, I believe, is better for the Plus Series versions. If you have a coffee maker like the Mini or Classic, it could be worth looking into reusable cups made exclusively for it.
Pros:
- With the Plus Size coffeemaker, everything is much easier, and we won’t have to make any adjustments, apart from trying to ensure the Plus Size adapter is in position
- Components are all BPA-free
- Good value
- Versatile
Cons:
- Requires multiple adjustments to fit in the different models.
Di ORO MaxBrew
Talk about versatility, and this is it, but with that comes a hefty price as well, so we have to dig deep into our wallets. The reusable filter from DI ORO MaxBrew gold is one of the more expensive reusable K-cups on the market.
Although the learning curve for getting it configured takes some time, it fits almost any Keurig. It’s a small adaptable gadget, given the variety of drinks it allows you to brew and the number of coffee machines with which it is compatible.
We also find its structure appealing, and it’s dependable, unlike specific reusable K-cups that are both pricey and poorly constructed. If you keep it clean, the MaxBrew will last us for a long time.
Due to seepage, it requires additional filters. The filter is already quite costly, but with this flaw, it becomes even more so.
Pros:
- Well-built and adaptable
- It fits a wide array of machines
Cons:
- One disadvantage is that the screens allow some coffee grounds to pass through, so you’ll want to use additional paper filters.
- That reduces the efficiency considerably and results in an incremental cost.
- It is expensive
iPartsPlusMore Reusable Mesh Filters
These are excellent deals for filters that can help you save money on coffee while reducing your carbon footprint. These K-Cups are durable, so while they’re cheap and appear to be semi-disposable, they’ll withstand the abuse that a coffee maker can dish out for a long time.
They’re also well-built so they won’t fall apart, and splatter grinds across the room throughout the brewing process. When you add in the fact that we can reuse them, it’s a solid choice.
They aren’t functional with every Keurig brewer, of course. Since they have a smaller cup volume, they are less suitable with larger machines.
Make sure to avoid putting too much stress on the mesh of iPartsPlusMore K-Cup (and certain other) reusable K-cups. Even at low pressures, it can come off. Always grasp it from the upper end or where the material is firm, not via the mesh.
Despite its low cost, this coffee filter has numerous fantastic features that rival those found in higher-priced reusable K-cups. The gold-coated steel filter is well-constructed, and the parts are BPA-free. We can wash it in the top rack of the dishwasher, making cleanup a breeze.
Pros:
- Dishwasher safe (top rack)
- Excellent value
- Dependable
- Well-constructed
- Plastic parts are BPA-free
Cons:
- The capacity is limited
- Mesh is sensitive
STYDDI Reusable Coffee Filters
STYDDI, one of the most popular and well-reviewed reusable K cups, excels in variety and ease of usage. The financial cost isn’t insignificant. This cup has a lifetime guarantee and uses a stainless steel micro-mesh filter.
Claims like this do a lot to pique people’s interest in the K-Cup. Remember that the goods will degrade with time; thus, the warranty is a little more complicated.
The lid on STYDDI K-Cup comes specially engineered to withstand extreme temperatures. It not only improves your coffee but also allows you to create other beverages such as tea and hot chocolate. It’s simple to operate with and will fit into nearly all compatible models without modification.
The fish-styled pattern on the Froz-cup is a little touch, but I like it. It’s just something that stands out among the other filters’ drab appearances. It is made of food-grade materials and is free of BPA and lead.
Pros:
- Claims to have a lifetime guarantee
- Needs no modification
- It fits into multiple models
- Makes multiple beverages
Cons:
- Not durable despite lifetime guarantee claim
EZ-Cup Reusable K Cup in Stainless Steel
The metallic construction of the EZ-Cup Reusable K-Cup drew my attention. Plastic clips are still in play, but they never come into contact with your beverage. BPA, DEHP, and lead are not present in the reusable stainless steel K-Cup.
Yes, it’s entirely metal, so if you’re wary about plastic K-Cups, a stainless steel alternative should set your mind at ease. The hinge comprises metal material, so we expect it to survive longer, but it appears fragile, so the verdict is still out.
Then there are the points made of plastic. These designs make removing the hot reusable cup from the Keurig machine easier, and cleaning it quickly after brewing is beneficial. It keeps the reusable K cup clean and the filter from becoming blocked.
When it comes to filters, there’s a fair probability that a few coffee grounds will find their way into your cup of joe. Every metallic filter has the potential to do so. They won’t absorb the coffee oils, and they won’t prevent finer grounds from making their way into the drink. If you don’t want to do that, you can always use a paper filter to line the EZ-Cup Reusable K Cup.
Pros:
- It doesn’t affect the coffee taste
Cons:
- Might need a paper filter to stop dregs
- Appears fragile
Maxware Reusable Coffee Filters
The Maxware reusable K-Cup comes designed can brew both coffee and tea. Its filter, made of steel mesh, does not soak up oils or provide a flavor to your drink. As a result, it addresses two difficulties associated with paper filters.
The Maxware container, like other reusable K cups, is excellent for strong coffee. If you fill it with fresh coffee grounds instead of pre-packaged pods, your 12oz cup will have more robust coffee. Because it’s a fine mesh, use coarsely ground coffee for a more extraordinary flavor.
Maxware’s advertising promotes it as a bargain product, yet it lacks certain basic comforts. Because it isn’t dishwasher safe, you should give it a quick clean after you’ve finished making your coffee.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Great for strong coffee
- It does not take away oils and taste
Cons:
- Leaks sometimes at the top
- It doesn’t fit every coffee maker
- Delicate
- Sometimes Keurig 2.0 doesn’t acknowledge it
How to Choose the Right K-Cup
Because of environmental concerns about landfills filling up with empty plastic pods, the market for reusable K-cups exploded. They’re also helpful in allowing you to consume specialized brews for which no K-cups are available.
If you’re not a coffee snob, a reusable coffee cup can also save you money on coffee machine maintenance. We’ll go through a few pointers on how to choose the best one for you.
Cost
It all comes down to how much you’re willing to spend in the end. Reusable K-cups are generally affordable to most people. Plus, if you use it frequently, it will quickly pay for itself. Save a couple of dollars if you can.
Capacity
The most crucial factor to consider when selecting a reusable K-cup is compatibility with your coffee machine. It doesn’t matter if it’s the best reusable K-cup the universe has ever seen if it doesn’t fit since you won’t be able to use it if it doesn’t work. If you buy your coffee machine online, it will usually recommend a compatible reusable cup. If you’re purchasing after the fact, check sure the item you’re considering will work with your machine.
Versatility
The reason this quality is significant is that having a capsule that fits multiple machines will be great for you to use at work and home. Additionally, if you choose to change your coffee maker, you’d not have to invest in another reusable K-Cup.
Functionality
The fewer parts something has, the less complicated and easier it is to operate it is. Many individuals purchase single-use coffee machines because they are simpler and easier to use than classic drip brewers. If you’re looking for a reusable K-cup, make sure it’s not complicated and doesn’t have parts that can cause it to malfunction easily
Durability
Anything that has to do with brewing coffee can take a beating, especially if the operator is sloppy before we pour a cup of coffee. We have to make sure our reusable K-cup can withstand being dropped, having things fall on it, exposure to hot and cold liquids, and even getting washed in the dishwasher. Keeping a coffee machine clean is an essential part of having one.
Variety
Reusable K-cups are available in a wide selection of colors and number groupings. Many people have carefully designed décor schemes for the areas where they place the coffee machines. Make sure your reusable cups are in line with that and that you don’t buy more than you need.
The Advantages of Reusable K Cups
Using single-use K-cups is convenient, but it comes with a cost. You’ve increased your spending. The amount of money spent on coffee depends on how frequently you consume it. In comparison, using reusable K-cups is relatively cost-effective.
Single-use capsules cost substantially more per pound than multi-use capsules, even with some of the more expensive artisanal coffee brands available.
You get to choose the coffee you drink when you use reusable cups. You don’t have to drink coffee that has been ground for months and is no longer fresh. Instead, you can grind your coffee as needed for a better flavor.
Even if you buy (relatively) pricey artisanal coffee, there’s a strong chance you’ll save money by not using single-use cups.
Sure, single-use cups can entice your taste buds with a variety of flavors. However, most of us stick to a particular flavor for our daily coffee. You can keep a few single-use cups on hand for that specific flavor, but for ordinary coffee, you’ll want to use your reusable K cup.
The Bottom Line
Keep in mind that manufacturers do not create reusable K-Cups in a one-size-fits-all fashion. Examine the model number and name of your coffee machine before purchasing a cup.
The coffee maker and the purchase should be compatible. While most models fall under the standard alternatives, it’s a good idea to double-check compatibility between the cup and the coffee maker.
Most reusable cups come with a complete set of instructions to help you understand how to use them. For universal cups, such as the Keurig My K-Cup, you may need to make some adjustments. The tiny adjustments you’ll need to make are what make this K-Cup #1.
It is compatible with the majority of coffee machines. If you’re using a Plus Series brewer, make sure to use the adapter that comes with it at the bottom. Remember to use coarse ground coffee instead of fine ground coffee, as finely ground coffee will clog the filter.
Make sure you purchase your reusable K cups from a reliable retailer. DEPH, lead, and BPA should not be present in your K-Cup. Responsible businesses do not use these chemicals in their consumer goods. Purchasing from a trusted source and brand makes sense.
Investing in the best reusable K cup is a wise decision. Keep the traditional pods on hand for special occasions if necessary. Switch to reusable pods for your usual coffee for stronger, better-tasting beverages. If you need another reason, reusable mugs are much more cost-effective. Now, enjoy!!
