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Some barista tools make the life of a barista more enjoyable and efficient. Some are nice to have, whereas others are downright essential to the fluid operation of any coffee shop.

Since we specialize in barista tools, coffee grinders, and espresso machines, we thought we’d offer this helpful (but short) guide for anyone interested in opening a coffee shop - or just for those that already run one and are looking for holes in their workflow.

So, with no further ado, be sure your coffee shop has the following critical barista tools.

Espresso Knock Boxes

If you’ve never encountered an espresso knock box before, you might be wondering why on earth this item would take the coveted first space in a list of essential barista tools.

Can’t you just knock the puck out against the side or top of the trash can?

Well, sure, if you’re alright with leaving a trail of steaming drips in your wake on the floor or countertop.

Espresso knock boxes prevent messes and make it so much easier to dislodge a hot puck of spent espresso, containing all of the grounds in a convenient receptacle until it’s time to empty the whole thing in the trash. They are ideal espresso-machine-side accessories.

Plus, many of them are made with non-slip rubber feet and crafted from high-quality stainless steel that is corrosion-resistant and easy to clean.

So, they take spot number one. If your shop doesn’t have one next to your espresso machine, it’s time to get one.

Scales

Coffee and espresso grounds are compressible, which means volumetric measurements are not always as accurate as they should be. Consequently, weighing the shot is the best way to go.

Any scale is helpful if it is small and precise enough, but coffee scales often have timers and additional features such as flow-rate indicators that make them perfect for the job of weighing grounds.

Taking an accurate reading from a scale is the only way to ensure truly precise measurements, and therefore to essential to offering a consistently enjoyable customer experience.

Espresso Shot Glasses

Marked espresso shot glasses (in a variety of sizes) might also seem like something you don’t actually need to have in your coffee shop but think again.

For one, espresso shot glasses are useful for checking the shot you just poured, which is crucial to precise workflows and consistently prepared drinks.

More importantly, not all shot glasses fit underneath all espresso machines, especially machines with limited space under the handle. Make sure your shop is equipped with glasses that work with your machines.

Tampers & Tamping Mats

Tampers and to a lesser extent, tamping mats, are also surprisingly important barista tools.

It’s not good enough just to fill the brewing handle with grounds. You need to tamp them down to achieve the proper pack. Failing to do so will allow the water to run through too quickly, which will adversely impact extraction.

However, not all tampers fit all filter baskets, so be sure you get one in an appropriate (and compatible) size.

A tamping mat is another important accessory to have on hand. Is it 100% necessary? Maybe not, but tamping mats will protect your countertops by catching spilled grounds and stabilizing the portafilter (many tamping mats are made from non-slip materials).

Steaming Pitchers

Milk steaming pitchers, also known as steaming jugs, are handy little barista tools that make it easy to contain and dispense steamed and frothed milk. It’s helpful to have a few different steaming pitchers in different sizes around your shop.

Steaming Thermometers

Steaming thermometers, which enable you to take the temperature of steamed and frothed milk, are also vital.

One purpose of steaming milk is to convert the complex sugars in it to simpler, “sweeter” sugars that improve the flavor and texture of coffee. However, achieving a precise temperature range between 155℉ and 165℉ is necessary to do so.

Cooler and the sugars won’t develop, too hot and you’ll scorch the milk, making a thermometer absolutely essential to the process.

Grinder Brushes

Grinder brushes are useful for one very specific task, but it is an important one: cleaning your coffee and espresso machines, specifically the filters, screens, and brew heads. Brushes can dislodge loose grounds more efficiently than a cloth can, but both are handy to keep around.

Stock Up and Get Free Shipping on Orders Over $49!

In addition to these vital barista tools, we also carry important cleaning accessories, brewing supplies, and cupping tools, as well as coffee and espresso grinders and brewing equipment.

If you have any questions about the tools, accessories, or other equipment that we sell - we carry all of these tools and many others from TimeMore, Revolution, Pallo, and more - get in touch with us directly at 800-277-7277 or at Hello@VisionsEspresso.com.

And, while you’re shopping, keep in mind that orders over $49 through our website ship free!