Steam wand purge

Running steam through the wand for 1–2 seconds after each steaming session to clear residual milk from the tip and internal passages before the milk can dry.

Why it matters — Skipping the purge is the #1 cause of steam wand blockages. Milk dries inside the tip within minutes and crusts hard. A 2-second purge prevents almost all wand problems.

Good to know

• The full sequence is: wipe the wand exterior with a damp cloth → purge for 2 seconds → wipe again.
• Do it before you set the jug down. Most baristas develop the habit so it becomes automatic.