A good cup of coffee in the morning can set the mood for your whole day. But when we’re working from home, relying on a barista to serve your daily cup may not be the most convenient option. If that's the case, you might be looking to brew a good cup yourself. And, depending on the amount of coffee you drink a day, it could also save you some cash. With these simple tips, you'll be able to make your own perfect cup of coffee every morning, right in the comfort of your own home.

Know your beans
Spoilt by local cafes, I never understood the finer details that go into making a cup of coffee. Without question, good coffee starts with the right coffee beans. The two major types of beans are Arabica and Robusta. Arabica beans are considered higher quality with a sweeter and less harsh taste. On the other hand, Robusta beans are cheaper with a higher caffeine content but taste a lot more bitter. These beans are often used to make instant coffee and espresso blends. My current obsession is the “Sunrise Blend” from Shall We Coffee.

What’s your method?
Once you’ve figured out what types of beans you prefer, next you’ll need to decide on the best method for you. There are more ways to make coffee than you can imagine from espresso machines, French press, and stove coffee makers. After using coffee pods for many years, I’ve recently converted to a manual espresso machine. Personally, I prefer a latte with oat milk and a dash of honey, which certainly makes the perfect cup. I love being able to grind my beans fresh out of the bag.

Keep your equipment clean
Whichever method you choose, it’s important to keep your machine clean. To avoid any oily buildup that can change the taste of your coffee, clean your containers and grinders at least weekly. A deep clean monthly with a strong solution of vinegar can help dissolve away any mineral deposits. Remember to rinse thoroughly before reuse.

Speak with your local barista
If you’re after more in-depth tips, start a conversation with your local barista. After a lot of trial and error, I reached out to the team at Shall We Coffee in District Docklands. Danny and Angie were more than happy to share their trade secrets, and with their help, I was able to find the perfect brew. If you live locally, be sure to drop by. From specially blended coffee beans to filter coffees, I’m sure they’ll have something that’s perfect for you.