Creating a home coffee set-up doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. With a few thoughtful tools and a little organisation, you can build a space that makes brewing easier.
Here’s what we recommend for anyone wanting cafe-quality coffee at home – without the overwhelm.
1. A brewing method that suits you
Your machine doesn’t have to be fancy, it just has to match your routine and the style of coffee you enjoy.
- Manual (often called "pump") espresso machines for hands-on brewing and more control
- Automatic espresso machines for convenience and consistency
- Stovetop or mokapot for strong, rich coffee with simple steps
- French press for smooth, full-bodied brews
The best set-up is the one you’ll actually use every day.
2. A good grinder (it matters more than you think)
A consistent grind is one of the biggest factors in better-tasting coffee.
Choose a burr grinder (manual or electric) for uniform particle size, balanced extraction, and smoother flavour. If you only upgrade one thing, let it be your grinder.
3. Coffee beans made for home machines
Most supermarket beans are roasted for commercial cafe machines, which is why they can taste flat, sharp, or inconsistent at home.
Ours are roasted specifically for home extraction, meaning:
- smoother flavour
- easier dial-in
- consistent results
- less waste
Start with Smooth Medium if you like balance, or Rich Strong if you love intensity.
4. A scale (small tool, big difference)
A digital scale helps you measure your dose and yield accurately, removes the guesswork and keeps your brewing consistent. Aim for 18g in and 36g out in 25–30 seconds.
5. A tamper you like using
A flat, firm, consistent tamp leads to even extraction. It doesn’t need to be expensive – just comfortable, sturdy, and the right size for your portafilter. The one that came with your machine is probably a good starting place!
6. A good milk jug
A small stainless-steel jug gives you control over pour speed and steaming temperature. If you steam milk, keep it between 55–60°C, stop before it’s too hot to touch and swirl to keep it glossy.
7. A clean and organised workspace
Great coffee starts with a set-up that feels easy to use.
A few simple additions help:
- an easy to clean tray or mat to catch stray grounds
- a knock box or compost bowl
- a soft brush for your grinder
- a clean cloth for your steam wand
Keeping things tidy helps your machine run well and your coffee taste better.
The most important part of any home coffee set-up isn’t the gear – it’s the feeling. Organising your space and routine, finding a quiet moment, a cup you love holding – that’s what turns brewing at home into something satisfying, not stressful.
Ready to build your set-up?
Start with the essentials, keep things simple, and choose tools that make your routine smoother.
And remember – the right beans make all the difference. Find Smooth Medium and Rich Strong at your local Woolworths or online anytime.
