Can reusable capsules be used in a Nespresso machine?

Every morning, millions of cups of Nespresso coffee are enjoyed around the world. Convenient, quick, and delicious, the capsules have revolutionized the way we make espresso at home.

But behind this simplicity lies a less pleasant reality: billions of disposable capsules end up in the trash every year . Aluminum, plastic, transport, packaging… the environmental impact of capsule coffee is considerable.

So, one question comes up often:

Can reusable capsules be used in a Nespresso machine without damaging it or losing quality?

Good news: yes, it's possible! And even better: it's a simple, economical and profoundly ecological gesture.

In this article, we explain how to use reusable capsules with your Nespresso machine, what precautions to take, and why this change can transform both your coffee… and your consumption habits.

Nespresso and reusable capsules: compatibility now possible

For a long time, Nespresso users believed that their machines only accepted official Nespresso capsules.

This was true in their early days: Nespresso's patents limited compatibility. But these patents have expired, paving the way for innovative alternatives like Cafécolo reusable capsules .

Made from high-quality stainless steel , calibrated to the millimeter, they fit perfectly on most Nespresso OriginalLine models.

Their micro-perforated lid ensures a smooth and even extraction , replicating the same pressure as a disposable capsule. The result: a rich, aromatic espresso topped with a beautiful crema, without any waste.

👉 Discover Cafécolo reusable capsules for Nespresso

Why adopt reusable capsules: ecology, economy and freedom

Using reusable capsules is much more than just a change of equipment.

It's a new way of consuming coffee: more conscious, more respectful and more free.

A strong gesture for the planet

Each disposable capsule takes several centuries to decompose. Even recycling programs struggle to absorb the volume produced: only a minority are actually recycled ( source ADEME ).

In contrast, a reusable Cafécolo capsule can be used more than 1000 times . This represents hundreds of coffees without generating a single piece of waste .

It's a small gesture, but a big impact: less plastic, less aluminum, less CO₂ related to manufacturing.

Immediate savings

A disposable capsule coffee costs on average €0.45 to €0.60 per unit.

By using ground coffee in bulk, your cost per cup drops to around €0.10 .

So you divide your coffee budget by four or five — and your Cafécolo capsule pays for itself in just a few weeks.

👉 See all Cafécolo reusable capsules

The freedom of taste

With reusable capsules, you can rediscover coffee: choose your grind, your roaster, your intensity.

Organic Arabica, full-bodied Italian blend, Ethiopian mocha, mild decaf… anything is possible.

You go from a standardized, industrial coffee to a unique and personalized sensory experience .

How to properly use your reusable Nespresso capsules

Using a reusable capsule is easy. But to get the perfect coffee, you need to follow a few simple rules.

Choosing the right grind

The grind should be medium to fine , like that used for traditional espressos.

Too large: light coffee, without body.
Too thin: the capsule gets clogged and the coffee doesn't flow.

👉 To learn more, discover our tips in the article The best tips for zero-waste coffee at home .

Fill the capsule without packing it down tightly

Pour a heaped teaspoon of ground coffee into the Cafécolo capsule, then level the surface.

Do not pack too tightly: light packing is sufficient to ensure good extraction.

Close the capsule securely

Cafécolo capsules have a micro-perforated stainless steel lid.

Make sure it is securely clipped in before inserting the capsule into the machine. This ensures optimal pressure and a smooth flow.

Clean after each use

Rinse your capsule with hot water, without soap.

The stainless steel material does not retain odor or taste, and regular maintenance prolongs its lifespan.

👉 Discover our Cafécolo cleaning accessories

Which Nespresso models are compatible?

Cafécolo reusable capsules are compatible with most Nespresso OriginalLine machines , including:

Inissia
Pixie
Essenza Mini
Citiz
Lattissima
U

These machines use a standard mechanical drilling system. Cafécolo capsules fit perfectly and guarantee a smooth coffee.

⚠️ However, they are not compatible with Nespresso Vertuo machines , which work with a unique barcode.

To ensure your model is correct, Cafécolo has developed a free and interactive tool:

👉 Take the quick compatibility test here

In 3 clicks , find out immediately if your machine is compatible with Cafécolo capsules.

It's fast, reliable, and avoids any ordering errors.

(ℹ️ For more technical information on Nespresso machines, you can also consult the (Official Nespresso website)

Common mistakes to avoid

Here are the most common mistakes when using it for the first time — and how to avoid them:

Grind too fine → bitter coffee, blocked flow.
Coffee too tightly packed → same result.
Coffee too oily → residue in the capsule.
Cleaning forgotten → taste altered over time.
Lid not properly secured → loss of pressure, weak coffee.

Once you've mastered these small details, you'll have a perfect espresso, every time.

Barista tips for a perfect espresso

Baristas know: perfection lies in the details.

Here are some tips from the Cafécolo community:

Run a little hot water through the machine before making your coffee to preheat it.
Use filtered water to avoid limescale and improve taste.
Vary your coffees : organic blends, pure arabicas or specialty coffees reveal their full richness with reusable capsules.
Adjust the coffee length to your taste: ristretto, espresso or lungo.

👉 Check out our full article on World Coffee Day to learn more about coffee culture and its secrets.

Environmental impact: when every cup counts

One coffee is a small thing. Millions of coffees is immense.

A disposable capsule weighs approximately 1 gram of aluminum. Multiplied by the billions of capsules sold each year, this represents more than 100,000 tons of waste produced annually.

With reusable capsules, this impact drops to almost zero.

A single Cafécolo capsule can last you for several years , without ever ending up in a landfill.

It's a concrete, measurable, and motivating change.

An economical and responsible approach

Contrary to what you might think, taking action for the planet can also be good for your wallet .

Let's take a concrete example:

1 pack of 250g organic ground coffee: €5 for 35 cups of coffee
35 disposable capsules: €17 to €20

Result: you save more than 70% per month, while reducing your waste.

And since a reusable Cafécolo capsule lasts for years, the return on investment is rapid.

The Cafécolo experience: sustainable, aesthetic and simple

Cafécolo does not just manufacture sustainable capsules.

Every detail is designed to make your experience simple, enjoyable and consistent with your values:

Elegant brushed steel design
Compatibility tested on numerous Nespresso models
Easy to use for immediate handling
Zero plastic , for clean and responsible consumption

👉 Discover Cafécolo reusable capsules for Nespresso

And if you want to go further, also read our article:

👉 Stop throwing away your capsules: the eco-friendly solution every coffee lover should know

A more responsible coffee, without compromising on pleasure

At Caf'écolo , we believe that the ecological transition begins with simple actions.

Adopting a reusable capsule means rejecting disposable products without giving up on pleasure.

It proves that you can love coffee, real coffee, while respecting the planet.

If you too want to reduce your environmental impact while enjoying your espresso every morning, now is the time to take the plunge.

👉 Discover Cafécolo reusable capsules compatible with Nespresso

Your coffee will never taste the same again — in every sense of the word.