Nespresso pods come with great coffee, and if you prefer, excellent flavor. Their ability to brew a kickass cup of espresso is commendable. However, sometimes, we’d rather use our own coffee to brew an espresso. That’s where the best Nespresso refillable capsules come in.
As the name implies, these capsules can be used several times, making them more useful than the standard single-serve options.
Top Nespresso Reusable Pods To Consider
- RECAPS Stainless Steel Refillable Filters
- CAPMESSO Coffee Capsule, Stainless Steel Reusable Coffee Pod
- SEAL POD Reusable Nespresso Capsules
- Cafilas Stainless Steel Reusable Capsules
- My-Cap Sampler Capsules for Nespresso VertuoLine Brewers
- Geesta Reusable Aluminum Foil Seals
- Alchemy Bar Goods Nespresso Capsules Refillable
Editor’s Choice: SEAL POD Reusable Nespresso Capsules
Seal Pod is an interesting and almost elegant solution for using Nespresso reusable pods. These are small stainless steel pods topped by plastic or aluminum sticker lids. You’ll often have to stock up on lids, but the capsule itself can last years. It’s also relatively easy to fill, empty, and clean.
Quick Review For Top Nespresso Refillable Capsules
1. RECAPS Stainless Steel Refillable Filters
The biggest draw to these refillable capsules is perhaps the packaging. It’s not something luxurious or out of the world but the careful arrangement is quick to catch attention. RECAPS Stainless Steel Refillable Filters are built to last. They’re made from #304 stainless steel that’s sturdy and safe for use with edible items.
Its filter and tamper are made from stainless steel. Silicone rings are placed at the bottom of each Recaps filter. The package includes aluminum lids to be used with the filters. Though they will get used up and will have to be replaced regularly.
Compatibility
Recaps stainless steel filters are compatible with most Nespresso Original Line Machines. However, it’s best to talk to the seller and confirm compatibility. Some compatible machines are Lattissima, Lattissima+, Essenza Mini, several models of Pixie and Inissia series, CitiZ, CitiZ Milk, Gran Maestria, Maestria, Breville Creatista Plus BNE800BSS, and Nespresso Creatista Plus.
Highlights
- Reusable and long lasting capsule
- Needs replacement lids and silicone rings
- Slightly smaller than conventional Nespresso capsules
- High-quality construction
- Prone to some leakage into the drip tray
2. CAPMESSO Coffee Capsule, Stainless Steel Reusable Coffee Pod
These are Nespresso VertuoLine reusable capsules. CAPMESSO Coffee Capsules are made from food grade 304 steel that’s long-lasting. It’s likely that you’ll never need to buy another reusable pod for your Nespresso VertuoLine machine.
Using these pods is pretty simple and straightforward. You put coffee grounds in, tamp it a bit, and place the pods in the machine. There are no extra lids needed here, unlike those used in Nespresso OriginalLine machine reusable capsules. However, it does use a silicone ring to prevent spills and that may have to be replaced after some uses.
Be sure to clean these pods and occasionally descale them to prevent any clogging. Since these are made for the VertuoLine, a larger pod suitable for coffee use is also available. They also offer Capmesso reusable capsules for OriginalLine, though these are made of plastic.
Compatibility
Nespresso Vertuoline GCA1, Delonghi ENV135 series, VertuoPlus BNV420 series, and VertuoPlus De’Longhi ENV150 series.
Highlights
- High-quality construction
- No need to replace lids regularly
- Includes replaceable silicone rings
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Available in different sizes for espresso and coffee brewing
3. SEAL POD Reusable Nespresso Capsules
Seal Pod Reusable Nespresso Capsules are our top choice for this category. These small stainless steel capsules carry enough coffee to make a strong and enjoyable espresso. They’ve put all necessary items in the package, including the capsules, sticker lids, scoop, silicone rings, and covers.
The job of the silicone ring is to minimize leakage, though there is always a risk of that happening. Since these are made from stainless steel, they’re sized smaller than conventional capsules to prevent damage to the machine. Seal Pod reusable capsules are quick and easy to refill and clean, so there’s less for you to worry about.
Compatibility
Nespresso Original Line, preferably models after 2010.
Highlights
- High-quality construction using 304 stainless steel
- Easy to use and clean
- Capsule size slightly smaller than conventional Nespresso capsules
- Needs replacement lids and silicone rings
- Risk of some leakage
4. Cafilas Stainless Steel Reusable Capsules
Cafilas Stainless Steel Reusable Capsules include a reusable lid along with the reusable capsules. With these, there is no need to regularly stock up on lids thus they’re more convenient in general use. A silicone ring is included to reduce the risk of spilling and leaks.
As these are made for the OriginalLine, they are somewhat smaller than conventional capsules. This is a trait you’ll find across stainless steel reusable capsules. It’s not necessarily a drawback – it is a functional necessity. Make it a point to clean the capsule and lid after use. Descaling the capsule and lid is necessary after a few uses to ensure there are no clogged holes.
Compatibility
Nespresso Original Line, preferably models after 2010. Nespresso U, CitiZ (Not Fit for D110 and Prodigio Krups), Pixie, Le Cube, Essenza, Maestria, Lattissima, Inissia, Concept. It might be useful to contact the seller to ensure compatibility.
Highlights
- High-quality construction using 304 stainless steel
- Includes reusable capsule and lid
- Easy to use and clean
- Capsule size slightly smaller than conventional Nespresso capsules
5. My-Cap Sampler Capsules for Nespresso VertuoLine Brewers
My-Cap Sampler Capsules for Nespresso VertuoLine Brewers is a bit of a hack, rather than a full reusable capsule. The idea here is to reuse your old Nespresso capsule by putting on a new foil and lid. As such, the kit includes a reusable plastic cap, filters, foil, and a brush. Should plastic not be your choice, they also offer a silicone cap for use.
To use these capsules, you’ll need one of the empty original Nespresso pods. Now simply refill it with coffee and place the aluminum lid over the package. Be careful not to cover or damage the barcode on the pod. The machine is still going to read that pod.
It might take some effort on the first go, but it gets easier to use as you get more practice. Those depending on the plastic or silicone cap will need to restock the paper filters as necessary.
Compatibility
Nespresso VertuoLine. The foils can be used with all manual and automatic closing brewers. When using caps and filters, avoid automatic closing brewers like the Vertuo+ and VertuoPro.
Highlights
- The set includes lids and caps
- Requires original Nespresso pods to be reused
- Fairly convenient to use, though there is a learning curve
- Users will need to buy the foil and paper filters, as necessary
6. Geesta Reusable Aluminum Foil Seals
Geesta Reusable Aluminum Foil Seals are conceptually the same as My-Cap Sampler Capsules that also make an appearance on this list. The idea is to reuse a Nespresso VertuoLine pod.
Fill the pod with coffee, place the lid over it, and put it to use again. It’s as simple as that! Be careful not to cover the barcode on the pods, because these are necessary for operation. It might take some time to get into the groove of replacing foils, but it is usually worth the effort.
Compatibility
Nespresso VertuoLine.
Highlights
- Includes aluminum lids/foils
- Original Nespresso pods required for the foils to function
- Convenient to use, but there’s a learning curve
7. Alchemy Bar Goods Nespresso Capsules Refillable
Alchemy Bar Goods Nespresso Capsules Refillable are made from plastic and have their own lids. They are easier to use and manage than stainless steel capsules, but the downside is that they’re made from plastic. The good thing is that the capsules are made from BPA-free plastic.
The capsules include an attached lid which makes the whole operation quicker and easier. When using Alchemy Bar Goods Nespresso Capsules, you simply fill them up with coffee, close the lid, and set it to brew. The capsules are dishwasher safe, so cleaning isn’t much of a problem either.
Lids and the bottom of the capsules have a stainless steel mesh to act as a filter. While regular cleaning will keep these running, there can be an occasional need for descaling.
Compatibility
Nespresso OriginalLine. Essenza, U, Milk, Citiz, Citiz- Milk, Gran Maestra, Maestria, Pixie, Lattissima, Lattissima +, Concept, Le Cube, and Inissia.
Highlights
- Easy to use and clean
- Made from BPA-free plastic, includes stainless steel mesh as filter
- Lower crema than foil options
- Easy and quick to use as compared to other options
Things You Should Know About Nespresso Reusable Pods And Capsules — A Guide
Nespresso And Reusable Pod Connection
When we think of single-serve machines, Nespresso and Keurig are the two that come to mind. Both of these are popular options and leaders in their respective segments. However, there is a difference. Keurig seems to have embraced the idea of reusable K cups and even introduced its own reusable offering.
Nespresso doesn’t seem to be on the same page. As we see in this review, there are several Nespresso refillable capsules. However, none of them seem to have the blessing of Nespresso. In fact, they seem to be working around the restrictions placed by Nespresso, rather than working with the machine.
I think it would be more responsible for Nespresso to embrace refillable pods and capsules openly. That opens up more options for the consumers and is a more eco-conscious approach.
Why Is The Refillable Capsule Smaller Than Conventional Capsules?
You’ll notice that most refillable capsules, especially those made from stainless steel are smaller than conventional Nespresso capsules. This is done to avoid puncturing that happens with conventional capsules. Stainless steel capsules aren’t about to get punctured, so it makes sense to stay away from the needle.
This way, damage to the needle is avoided. Users will need to exercise some caution placing these capsules to make sure that the smaller size fits right. Another side-effect of the smaller size is that it obviously holds less coffee.
The brew you make is likely to be weaker than the conventional cup. This might be a good time to slightly reduce the volume of coffee brewed to come in line with the lower coffee amount.
Due to the very nature of this approach, some trial and error is unavoidable. Although, once you get the hang of it, things go along a lot smoother.
Nespresso VertuoLine Reusable Capsules Versus Classic Capsules
There is an inherent difference in the working of Nespresso VertuoLine Pods and Classic Capsules. The classic series behaves more like conventional espresso machines. Water is added under pressure and the capsules themselves play a part in increasing the pressure before water is pushed through the coffee.
For VertuoLine, water is pushed into the pod. Rather than using a pump for pressure, the pod rotates as a way to mix water and coffee as well as create a pressure system. It makes a great espresso, but there is a higher level of finesse involved. Plus, these systems need a barcode to function correctly.
All these points have to be considered by various refillable capsule makers. The VertuoLine pod is difficult to make and get the same results. That’s why you see more OriginalLine refillable capsules rather than Nespresso VertuoLine reusable capsules.
Working The Lid – Reusable Or Single Use?
The approach to the lid is a major difference between various refillable capsules. You’ll see two major approaches here:
- Single-use lids (sticker lids)
- Reusable lids
The single-use or sticker lids use an adhesive and are disposable. These lids are capable of handling pressure better and usually result in a better crema and stronger drink. On the downside, these are single-use, and you’ll need to stock up occasionally.
Reusable lids are generally attached to the capsule or cup. There is no need to continue stocking up on items. However, these don’t handle pressure build-up as well, and the espresso crema and brew strength will be lower with this type of lids.
FAQs — Common Questions For Best Nespresso Refillable Capsules
Are refillable Nespresso pods any good?
Refillable Nespresso pods make a fairly good brew. In terms of simple quality, it isn’t something you’ll begrudge choosing. However, there are some differences here. Though the coffee (or espresso) brewed is great, it is likely to be weaker than the brew made with conventional capsules/pods. There’s also additional work involved in refilling/reusing the capsule.
The biggest advantage is cost. Using refillable pods saves you a substantial amount of money, and that adds up quickly if you use a few pods every day. This isn’t saving pennies on the dollar. You’re pretty much going to save the entire dollar (and spend a few pennies).
Can I use my own coffee with a Nespresso machine?
You’ll need to use a refillable capsule to use your own coffee with a Nespresso machine. The suggested coffee grind is fine or medium-fine. Using coarse grind results in a weak espresso with little or no crema. An extra-fine grind risks clogging up the filter on your reusable/refillable Nespresso capsule.
Can I use a Nespresso capsule twice?
Yes, you can reuse your Nespresso pods. This is best applicable to the VertuoLine capsules/pods and not the OriginalLine capsules. To reuse these capsules, you’ll need an adhesive aluminum lid. Here are the steps:
- Clean the pod
- Fill the pod with your choice of coffee grinds
- Make sure to leave space at the top so the pod is not overfilled
- Clean around the brim to ensure there are no coffee particles
- Place an adhesive aluminum lid on the top carefully to avoid covering the barcode
- Brew your espresso or coffee
It’s best not to reuse a pod beyond two-three times as the material will degrade with each use. You can buy the aluminum lids online, or make your own using aluminum foil.
The Wrap For Reusable Nespresso Pods
Using the best Nespresso refillable capsules is economical and eco-conscious. Plus, they brew a great cup of espresso that’s pretty much like the original capsules. They require some work, like putting in the coffee and placing lids, but it’s all well worth the effort.
If you have a Nespresso OriginalLine machine, give the SEAL POD Reusable Nespresso Capsules a shot. Those with Nespresso VertuoLine machines should take a look at the CAPMESSO Coffee Capsule. Even the Geesta Reusable Aluminum Foil Seals are a good option here.