Why Is Your Milk Frother Not Making Good Foam?

If your milk won’t foam the way you want, start with the simple things: the milk, the fill level, and whether the frothing parts are clean. You may not need a new machine.

Have You Added Too Much Milk?

Milk expands as it foams. Many frothing containers have different maximum marks for heating and frothing, so use the mark for the job you’re doing.

Filling to the top won’t give the milk room to foam. Check the instructions for the container or jug that came with your machine.

Try the Milk Itself

Different milks behave differently. A barista-style plant milk may foam differently from an ordinary version of the same brand. Start with fresh, cold milk and change one thing at a time.

Could Dried Milk Be in the Way?

Clean the removable parts as directed. Dried residue can interfere with the milk or air flow. Follow the manual if it identifies a frothing attachment or air opening to clean, and don’t poke tools into holes unless the instructions call for it.

Using a Manual Steam Wand?

Where you hold the wand affects how much air goes into the milk and how the milk moves in the jug. Use the starting technique in your machine’s instructions and a jug that suits the amount you’re making.

The Barista Express leaves that technique to you, while the Bambino Plus adds more milk assistance.

Using an Automatic Frother?

Check that the jug, lid, and any tubes are seated properly. Make sure the selected milk setting matches your drink and run the recommended cleaning routine.

If the normal checks don’t help, use the manufacturer’s troubleshooting and support. Our cappuccino machine guide explains the different milk systems if you’re comparing a replacement.

Coffee Machines You Might Want to Look At

Still deciding? Have a look at our coffee maker reviews, espresso machine reviews, or cappuccino machines to see what else might suit you.