Non-Plastic Coffee Makers

Anyone else rely on their daily coffee? I’ll be the first to admit how much I look forward to my first cup of the day. If you’re in the market for a new coffee maker and hoping to find a plastic-free option for health or sustainability reasons, look no further. Here are several of our favorite non-plastic coffee makers!

Our Picks:

Pour over	Hario Chemex
Percolator	Colletti Bozeman Camping Coffee Pot Farberware Classic Percolator Presto 12 Cup Electric Percolator
French Press	Mueller French Press Colletti Boulder French Press
Drip	Lindy’s Stainless Steel Drip Coffee Maker
Espresso	Giannini 103 Espresso Maker  Primula Stovetop Espresso Flair Signature Espresso Maker

Types of Plastic-Free Coffee Makers

If you’re looking for non-plastic coffee makers, several options are available that are made of alternative materials such as glass, stainless steel, and ceramic. These materials can be used to manufacture coffee makers in a few styles, including a pour-over style, drip style, or French press. Each has unique features and advantages, so it’s up to you to choose the one that best fits your needs and preferences.

Automatic vs. Manual Coffee Makers

There are two main types of coffee makers: automatic and manual. Automatic coffee makers have become increasingly common over the past few decades due to their convenience at the push of a button. However, finding a 100% plastic-free automatic coffee maker is pretty much impossible. Ultimately, the choice comes down to your personal needs and preferences, but I’ll offer some pros and cons for each below: 

Automatic coffee makers:

Pros:

• Easy to use with a push of a button
• Can keep coffee warm once brewed 
• May have additional features, such as programmable timers or the ability to brew multiple cups at once

Cons:

• Fewer plastic-free options available or they may have plastic add-ons (pods, etc.)
• May not give you as much control over the brewing process
• May not produce the best-tasting coffee

Manual coffee makers:

Pros:

• Easy to use
• Give you more control over the brewing process
• Can lead to a better-tasting cup of coffee
• More plastic free options 

Cons:

• More time-consuming and require more effort than automatic coffee makers
• Require you to control the temperature and timing of the brewing process
• May not keep coffee warm after brewing

Plastic-Free Pour Over Coffee Makers

These manual pour-over coffee makers are simple to use. You heat water separately using a stovetop or electric kettle and pour hot water over the coffee grounds in the coffee maker. Easy process and easy cleanup. Note that a filter is recommended when using this method. 

Hario

Hario, established in 1921 in Tokyo, Japan, introduced this pour-over coffee maker in 2005. Their ceramic drippers are made from Arita-yaki, a traditional style of Japanese ceramics with a rich 400-year history. Each Hario pour-over dripper is handmade by a local craftsperson in Japan. Hario describes their commitment to social responsibility with a pollution-free glass factory. 

This coffee maker contains no plastic or moving parts, but as it is a pour-over brew with no lid, your coffee may not be as piping hot as some other methods.

Pros:

• Potential to be long-lasting due to lack of moving parts 
• Plastic-free

Cons:

• Ceramic may break if dropped 
• Requires separate filters
• May not keep coffee as hot as stainless, lidded, or electric coffee makers

Specs:

• Capacity: Multiple sizes ranging from 1-2 cup and 1-4 cup capacity 
• Plastic Components: None. 100% Ceramic, though some reviews note that the smaller capacity Hario is made of plastic 

Chemex

The CHEMEX Coffeemaker was invented in 1941 by Dr. Peter Schlumbohm, Ph.D., to brew the perfect cup of coffee. The factory is located in Massachusetts, and CHEMEX describes their commitment to quality, including how they inspect, polish, and hand-tie each coffee maker. 

Like the Hario, this coffee maker contains no plastic parts or moving parts. But as it is a pour-over style brew with no lid, your coffee may not stay as hot as it would using other coffee-making methods. While I don’t use the CHEMEX at home, I have tried it and can share that I have not experienced any issues with lukewarm coffee.

Pros:

• Dishwasher safe 
• Potential to be long-lasting due to lack of moving parts 
• Plastic-free

Cons:

• Glass may break if dropped 
• Requires separate filters
• May not keep coffee as hot as stainless, lidded, or electric coffee makers

Specs:

• Capacity: Multiple sizes ranging from 3-cup to 8-cup capacity 
• Plastic Components: None

Plastic-Free Coffee Percolators

These coffee percolators are generally considered the old-fashioned way of making coffee. Percolators boil the coffee grounds until the desired strength is reached, so it may make for a stronger cup of coffee than a pour-over or drip method. Manual percolators can be used on the stovetop or while camping, and there are also corded electric options. 

Colletti Bozeman Camping Coffee Pot

Coletti is a veteran-owned and operated small business based in Spokane, Washington. They donate 10% of profits to interfaith dialogue to educate on Christianity. 

This percolator is completely stainless steel, and I appreciated their commitment to standing behind their product with a lifetime replacement guarantee. Despite being described as a camping coffee pot, I thought the shiny stainless steel exterior could work nicely in the kitchen as well. 

Pros:

• Plastic-free
• Keeps coffee hot 
• Lifetime replacement guarantee
• Separate filters optional 
• Durable stainless steel

Cons:

• Not dishwasher safe

Specs:

• Capacity: Multiple sizes ranging from 9-cup to 12-cup capacity
• Plastic Components: None

Farberware Classic Percolator

Farberware is a well-known brand for kitchen items. Their percolator has a large capacity and a shiny mirror-like stainless steel exterior. While the handle is plastic, it does not touch the brewing liquid. 

Pros:

• Keeps coffee hot 
• Dishwasher safe
• Separate filters optional 
• Durable stainless steel

Cons:

• Not 100% plastic free

Specs:

• Capacity: Multiple sizes ranging from 8-cup to 12-cup capacity
• Plastic Components: Handle is plastic; unclear whether BPA-free

Presto 12 Cup Electric Percolator

Presto offers an electric percolator if you prefer to plug in your coffee maker. While you may have less control over the temperature, it also can be easier to hit a button to start brewing. 

Note that while the handle, exterior base, and knob are plastic, these parts do not touch the brewing liquid. 

Pros:

• Keeps coffee hot 
• Separate filters optional 

Cons:

• Not dishwasher safe
• Not 100% plastic free

Specs:

• Capacity: 1-12 cups
• Plastic Components: Handle, exterior base, and knob; unclear whether BPA-free

RELATED: How to Clean a Stainless Steel Coffee Pot Without Any Scrubbing

Plastic Free French Press

The French press is my current method of making coffee at home since I’m the sole coffee drinker in our home, and I only do one serving of coffee per day. I love the rich taste of coffee brewed with this method compared to drip methods. 

Mueller French Press

This is an attractive stainless steel French press from Mueller Austria. As a stainless steel press, it will keep liquid at a more consistent temperature than a glass French press. This coffee maker was durable and easy to clean and care for. 

Pros:

• Keeps coffee hot 
• No separate filter needed
• Durable stainless steel
• Dishwasher safe

Cons:

• No way to see coffee while it brews

Specs:

• Capacity: 34 fl. oz. 
• Plastic Components: None 

Colletti Boulder French Press

Coletti is a veteran-owned and operated small business based in Spokane, Washington. They donate 10% of profits to interfaith dialogue to educate on Christianity. They offer a brushed steel French press and I appreciated their commitment to standing behind their product with a lifetime replacement guarantee. 

Pros:

• Veteran owned 
• No separate filter needed
• Keeps coffee hot
• Durable stainless steel
• Dishwasher safe
• Lifetime replacement guarantee

Cons:

• No way to see coffee while it brews

Specs:

• Capacity: 42 fl. oz.
• Plastic Components: None

Plastic Free Drip Coffee Maker

Lindy’s Stainless Steel Drip Coffee Maker

This is a manual (non-electric) stovetop-style drip coffee maker. It is made of stainless steel and has plastic handles that will not come into contact with liquid. Note that there are mixed reviews on the functionality and flavor of the coffee it brews. It may require some tinkering for a successful brew. 

Pros:

• Durable stainless steel
• No separate filter needed
• Dishwasher safe (top rack) 

Cons:

• Filter recommended 
• Not 100% plastic free

Specs:

• Capacity: 1-10 cups
• Plastic Components: Handle, knob; unclear whether BPA-free

Plastic Free Espresso Maker

Two common ways to make espresso are to use a Moka pot device or an espresso maker that “pulls” an espresso shot using pressure and liquid to create your espresso beverage. 

Giannini 103 Espresso Maker 

This Moka pot-style espresso maker made in Italy is small and has a shiny finish. While on the pricier end at just under $200, it is built to last, and the reviews indicate that as well.  

Pros:

• 100% plastic-free
• Durable stainless steel

Cons:

• Not dishwasher safe
• Pricy

Specs:

• Capacity: 4 cups
• Plastic Components: None

Primula Stovetop Espresso

This is another more affordable Moka pot-style espresso maker. While at a more affordable price point, it does include some plastic parts that do not come into contact with liquid. 

Pros:

• Durable stainless steel
• Affordable price point

Cons:

• Not 100% plastic free

Specs:

• Capacity: Multiple sizes ranging from 1-cup to 12-cup capacity
• Plastic Components: Handle, knob; unclear whether BPA-free

Flair Signature Espresso Maker

The Flair Signature espresso maker is a manual device to pull handcrafted espresso shots. This espresso maker even comes with a carrying case — while not sure why you may need it, I thought it was a neat feature. 

Pros:

• Many parts are durable stainless steel
• 3-year warranty

Cons:

• Pricy
• Not dishwasher safe
• Not 100% plastic free

Specs:

• Capacity: Multiple sizes ranging from 0.04 liters to 1.3 liters capacity
• Plastic Components: Only the bottom of the piston, but it is an FDA-approved material for food and beverages contact and storage; it is inert, safe, and BPA-free (according to the manufacturer)

Why Choose a Plastic-Free Coffee Maker

Why choose a plastic-free coffee maker? There are a few advantages, depending on your personal preference, including: 

• Sustainability: Plastic is not biodegradable and can contribute to environmental pollution. By choosing a plastic-free coffee maker, you can reduce your environmental impact and help to promote sustainability.
• Health: Some plastics can release harmful chemicals when exposed to heat or hot liquids, potentially harming your health. By choosing a plastic-free coffee maker, you can reduce exposure to these chemicals and enjoy a safer and healthier cup of coffee.
• Durability: Plastic coffee makers can be more prone to cracking or breaking, especially if they are exposed to high temperatures or rough handling. Coffee makers made of stainless steel are more durable, and with care, glass and ceramic may be as well.
• Taste: Some people believe that plastic can affect the taste of coffee — I agree. I personally can’t drink coffee from a plastic travel mug because of the plasticky taste. Choosing a plastic-free coffee maker can help ensure you get the best possible taste from your coffee.

What is BPA?

BPA stands for bisphenol A, which is a chemical that is often used in the manufacturing of plastic products, such as water bottles, food containers, and some types of coffee makers. BPA has been found to have potential health risks and has been a topic of concern in recent years.

Studies have shown that BPA can mimic the hormone estrogen in the body, potentially disrupting the endocrine system. Impacts can include developmental problems in children, fertility issues in adults, and an increased risk of certain types of cancer.

Due to these findings, the NIH recommends opting for glass, porcelain, or stainless steel containers for hot foods or liquids. While you can opt for BPA-free plastics, substitute or analog compounds are sometimes used instead of BPA, such as bisphenol S (BPS) and bisphenol F (BPF) that may also have harmful effects. It’s hard to know as a consumer, and I personally find the most peace of mind using glass, stainless, and ceramic for anything I heat food or liquid in.

Phthalate Leaching

Phthalates are commonly used to make plastic more flexible and durable, and they are often found in plastic products such as food containers, water bottles, and children’s toys. However, studies have shown that phthalates can harm human health, particularly the endocrine system, which regulates hormones in the body.

When plastic products containing phthalates are exposed to heat, high acidity, or repeated use, the chemicals can begin to break down and leach out of the plastic, potentially contaminating the food or beverage stored inside. 

To reduce the risk of phthalate exposure, consider using glass, stainless steel, or ceramic containers for food and beverages instead of plastic. 

How Important is a Completely Plastic-Free Coffee Maker?

This depends entirely on personal preference. From a health standpoint, any plastic parts that do not touch liquid are not a health concern. From a sustainability standpoint, stainless steel, glass, and ceramic beat plastic due to their durability and ways to reuse at the end of the coffee maker’s usable life. 

If you want to be completely plastic-free, you’ll need to opt for a manual coffee maker. If you’re looking for an automatic coffee maker, you can opt for one with less plastic, as today, no 100% plastic-free automatic coffee makers are available. 

Considerations Before Purchasing a Non-Plastic Coffee Maker

If you’re considering purchasing a plastic-free coffee maker, there are a few things to consider. However, this really goes for selecting any coffee maker you’re considering buying. 

You’ll want to consider what material the coffee maker is made of, which impacts durability. The design of the coffee maker impacts how easy it is to clean. Depending on how much coffee you brew at once, make sure you purchase the right capacity for your needs. Read on for more detail and considerations: 

• Material: Non-plastic coffee makers are typically made of glass, stainless steel, or ceramic. Glass and ceramic coffee makers are more fragile and require careful handling. Stainless steel coffee makers are durable and long-lasting and can also retain heat. 
• Capacity: Consider the amount of coffee you typically brew and choose a coffee maker that can accommodate your needs. Some non-plastic coffee makers come in various sizes, while others are designed for single servings.
• Brewing method: Non-plastic coffee makers come in multiple styles, including French press, pour-over, and drip coffee makers. Each method produces a different flavor profile, so consider your preferences and choose a coffee maker that suits your taste.
• Ease of use and cleaning: Some non-plastic coffee makers can be more challenging to use or clean than others. Consider each coffee maker’s cleaning and maintenance requirements and choose one that fits your lifestyle.
• Price: Non-plastic coffee makers can be more expensive (but only sometimes!) than their plastic counterparts, so consider your budget when choosing a coffee maker. 

Non-Plastic Coffee Maker Comparison Chart

STYLE	PRODUCT LINKS	CAPACITY	PLASTIC COMPONENTS
Pour over	Hario	1-2 cup and 1-4 cup capacity	None
Pour over	Chemex	3-cup to 8-cup capacity	None
Percolator	Colletti Bozeman Camping Coffee Pot	9-cup to 12-cup capacity	None
Percolator	Farberware Classic Percolator	8-cup to 12-cup capacity	Handle
Percolator	Presto 12 Cup Electric Percolator	1-12 cups	Handle, exterior base, and knob
French Press	Mueller French Press	34 fl. oz	None
French Press	Colletti Boulder French Press	42 fl. oz	None
Drip	Lindy’s Stainless Steel Drip Coffee Maker	1-10 cups	Handle, knob
Espresso	Giannini 103 Espresso Maker	4 cups	None
Espresso	Primula Stovetop Espresso	1-cup to 12-cup capacity	Handle, knob
Espresso	Flair Signature Espresso Maker	0.04 liters to 1.3 liters capacity	Bottom of the piston

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