Reusable coffee capsules: a response to the most common criticisms

A few days ago, we received a rather pointed comment on our page:

“Your reusable capsules are a rip-off. They never work properly, the coffee is bad, and on top of that, they're a pain to clean.”

It's the kind of message that stings a little, of course. But at Cafécolo, we don't run from criticism. We welcome it, we respond to it kindly… and above all, we take the opportunity to do a little educating.

So today, we are taking the time to calmly respond to this comment, because we know that behind this message, there are surely doubts shared by many people.

“The coffee is bad with these capsules”

This is probably the most frequent criticism. And it's perfectly understandable… if you compare a reusable capsule that's misused to an industrial capsule calibrated to the millimeter.

But what you need to understand is that reusable capsules offer a freedom that disposable capsules will never have: you can choose your coffee, your grind, your dosage, your tamping. And that's precisely where the difference lies.

Are you using a grind that's too fine? Your machine will struggle, and the coffee won't flow properly.

Are you using a grind that's too coarse? The water will pass through too quickly, and the coffee will be weak.

But once you've found the right coffee and the right settings , you never go back. It's a bit like learning to make a good Italian espresso: the first few times it's not perfect, but then... it's magic.

At Cafécolo, we support you every step of the way, with guides , tutorials, and assistance if needed. Our goal? To help you achieve barista-quality coffee while reducing your waste.

“It’s a pain to clean.”

Here too, we understand. We live in a world of speed and instant gratification. So taking 30 seconds to rinse a capsule after use can seem inconvenient.

But let's ask the question differently: 30 seconds to avoid throwing away a single-use aluminum or plastic capsule every day , is that really such a "hassle"?

The Cafécolo capsule is made of stainless steel and rinses very easily with hot water. And if you're really in a hurry, a quick wash in the dishwasher now and then is all it takes.

It's a matter of habit, like taking your reusable bag when you go shopping or using a water bottle instead of buying plastic bottles. It's a small gesture... that has a big impact.

“It doesn’t work”

We sometimes receive this comment from people who haven't read the instructions (we know, we're all a little impatient when we unpack a product).

Our capsules are compatible with most Nespresso® * and Dolce Gusto® * machines. However, they must be inserted correctly, filled without packing them too tightly, and closed securely.

And above all, you need to take some time to test and adjust:

Try different grinds (espresso grind, sold in bulk or from a roaster, often gives the best results)
Fill the capsule completely, but without pressing too hard.
Pack lightly, just enough to even out the surface

Once you find the right dosage, you have a delicious, zero-waste coffee at a lower cost… and you are proud of it.

If you have any doubt about the compatibility of your machine with our capsules, you can take the test now (it takes 30 seconds).

In summary: why persist with a reusable capsule?

Because beyond the coffee, it's an act of activism.

This means saying no to the 10 billion capsules thrown away each year.

It's about choosing to consume differently, taking back control over what we drink, what we buy, what we throw away.

And frankly, that's well worth a few tries at the beginning.

Yes, we hear your criticisms. And yes, we respond to them.

Because at Cafécolo, we don't just sell a product.

We propose another way of doing things.

More responsible. More sustainable. More humane.

And we are here, step by step, to support you through this transition.

Are you still hesitating? Do you have questions or have you had a bad experience?

And if you're ready to take the plunge, our capsules are waiting for you.

Be one of those who make a difference, one coffee at a time.