The De'Longhi Stilosa EC 260.BK is a user-friendly manual coffee machine designed for home baristas who appreciate traditional espresso making. Its key benefit is the ability to create a wide range of coffee beverages, including creamy cappuccinos, thanks to its effective frothing system and durable stainless steel boiler. Be aware that as a manual machine, achieving perfect results requires some practice and attention to detail, but offers full control over your brew.
Cappuccino System: This integrated system efficiently mixes steam, air, and milk to produce a rich, creamy milk froth, ideal for crafting authentic cappuccinos, lattes, and other milk-based coffee drinks. It provides excellent texture for your beverages.
Durable Stainless Steel Boiler: The machine features a high-quality stainless steel boiler. This construction ensures longevity, resistance to corrosion, and consistent heating, which is crucial for extracting optimal flavor from your coffee.
Adjustable Drip Tray: The flexible design includes an adjustable drip tray, allowing you to accommodate various mug and glass sizes, from small espresso cups to taller latte glasses, enhancing convenience and preventing spills.
Beverage Versatility: Beyond just espresso, this machine can be used to prepare a multitude of coffee beverages. Its capabilities allow you to experiment with different recipes and cater to diverse taste preferences.
Authentic Espresso Experience: Offers manual control for those who enjoy the art of coffee making.
Excellent Milk Frothing: The cappuccino system consistently produces creamy milk froth for a variety of drinks.
Built to Last: Features a durable stainless steel boiler designed for long-term, consistent performance.
Accommodates Various Cup Sizes: The adjustable drip tray adds convenience for different beverage preparations.
Variety of Coffee Options: Capable of making a range of drinks beyond basic espresso.
Manual Operation: Requires hands-on effort and some practice to achieve desired results consistently.
No Integrated Grinder: Users will need to purchase pre-ground coffee or a separate coffee grinder.
Single Boiler System: May require a short wait between brewing espresso and steaming milk as the boiler adjusts temperature.
Authentic Espresso Experience: Offers manual control for those who enjoy the art of coffee making.
Excellent Milk Frothing: The cappuccino system consistently produces creamy milk froth for a variety of drinks.
Built to Last: Features a durable stainless steel boiler designed for long-term, consistent performance.
Accommodates Various Cup Sizes: The adjustable drip tray adds convenience for different beverage preparations.
Variety of Coffee Options: Capable of making a range of drinks beyond basic espresso.
Manual Operation: Requires hands-on effort and some practice to achieve desired results consistently.
No Integrated Grinder: Users will need to purchase pre-ground coffee or a separate coffee grinder.
Single Boiler System: May require a short wait between brewing espresso and steaming milk as the boiler adjusts temperature.
The De'Longhi Stilosa (EC 260.BK) is designed for those who appreciate hands-on coffee preparation.
To make an espresso, simply add ground coffee to the filter holder, tamp it down evenly, and lock it into place. The stainless steel boiler quickly heats water to the optimal brewing temperature, ensuring a consistent shot with good crema. For best results, use fresh, finely ground espresso coffee.
The integrated cappuccino system is a standout feature. After brewing your espresso, switch to steam mode. Once ready, immerse the steam wand into cold milk. The system precisely mixes steam and air, allowing you to create rich, velvety microfoam perfect for lattes, or stiff, airy foam for traditional cappuccinos. The key is to position the wand correctly and regulate the steam flow for your desired texture. Always clean the steam wand immediately after use by wiping it with a damp cloth and purging a small amount of steam to clear any milk residue.
With its manual controls, the Stilosa allows you to go beyond basic espresso.
Espresso: Enjoy rich, concentrated shots.
Cappuccino: Combine espresso with equal parts steamed milk and frothed milk.
Latte: Mix espresso with more steamed milk and a thin layer of microfoam.
Americano: Add hot water to your espresso.
The adjustable drip tray is practical for daily use. You can easily remove it to accommodate taller mugs or glasses, making it convenient to prepare various drink sizes directly into your serving cup.
Proper setup, understanding compatibility, and regular care are essential for the longevity and optimal performance of your De'Longhi Stilosa (EC 260.BK).
Unboxing: Carefully remove all packaging materials and read the user manual.
Clean Components: Before first use, wash the water tank, drip tray, filter holder, and filters with warm water and mild detergent. Rinse thoroughly.
First Flush: Fill the water tank with fresh, cold water. Run a few cycles of just hot water through the machine without any coffee or filter holder attached. This primes the pump and cleans internal components.
Placement: Place the machine on a stable, flat surface away from heat sources and direct sunlight.
Coffee: This machine is designed for use with ground coffee only. It does not have an integrated grinder. For best flavor, use fresh, high-quality espresso grind.
Water: Use fresh, cold drinking water. Filtered water is recommended to prevent mineral buildup and improve taste.
Daily Cleaning:
Steam Wand: Immediately after frothing milk, wipe the steam wand with a damp cloth. Purge a short burst of steam to clear any internal milk residue.
Drip Tray: Empty and clean the drip tray daily to prevent odor and mold buildup.
Filter Holder & Filters: Rinse these components after each use to remove coffee grounds.
Weekly Cleaning:
Water Tank: Clean the water tank thoroughly with mild soap and water weekly.
Group Head: Wipe the group head (where the filter holder locks in) with a damp cloth.
Descaling: Over time, mineral deposits can build up in the machine. Descale your machine regularly according to the manufacturer's instructions in the user manual. This typically involves using a descaling solution and running it through the machine. > Info needed: [refer to user manual for specific descaling frequency and procedure.] Regular descaling ensures optimal performance and extends the machine's lifespan.