Working out which refillable capsule is compatible with your machine and is best suited to your caffeinated needs can be a daunting venture. Luckily we’ve put together this handy guide to give you a great overview of what’s available, and help get you sustainably brewing in no time!
Citiz / Citiz with milk
The Nespresso Citiz is an excellent mid-range machine that works well with a variety of reusable capsules. Available as a solo machine ($179-$299) or with milk ($269-$399)*.
The Citiz is an ultra-convenient and stylish espresso machine with a very slim profile. It's intuitive design is best suited to the convenience-oriented coffee lover, looking for a compact and sleek appliance that delivers a speedy, automatic espresso! Unlike some of the entry level models, the Citiz also offers an integrated milk frother option. This particular appliance tends to be a workplace favourite due to the simple exterior (meaning minimal clean-up)!
Reusable capsules
WAYCAP
Pros: When it comes to sustainability, 100% stainless steel capsules reign supreme! WayCap are infinitely reusable and come with 4 interchangeable steel filters – each one suited to a particular grind size. This gives you the flexibility to enjoy your espresso with whichever coffee you choose to brew! Whilst you’ll output more money on the initial purchase, in the long run WayCap capsules are an extremely cost-effective product, with no ongoing purchases required. The WayCap brand is also famous for its sustainable and ethical production practices.
Cons: Some consumers have experienced occasional jamming in the Citiz machine whilst using this reusable pod. As these capsules are made from high quality stainless steel, they can expand a little during use. Whilst this won't cause damage to the machine, they may require a little nudge to drop from the brewing chamber into the drip tray. If the jam feels more firm, this issue can usually be resolved by simply adjusting the placement of the silicone gasket on the pod.
WayCap can require a little more experimentation to perfect the resulting brew. We recommend trialling the different filters to refine your method, and find out what works best for you and your machine. To attain a strong, or long coffee with WayCap, we recommend brewing 2 pods per coffee.
BLUECUP
Pros: These reusable capsules come out on top when it comes to coffee strength and a great crema! The user friendly design and affordable price point (as well as the low ongoing cost of 10¢ per lid) make Bluecup a stand out for anyone wanting to start brewing more sustainably without compromising on flavour. The simple act of piercing the capsule lid (which is firmly pressed on using the Bluecup Cup Creator) creates a pressure build-up, resulting in a richer brew and crema.
The Bluecup system tends to receive great reviews by consumers, and critics alike, such as this recent review by The Sydney Morning Herald.
Bluecup capsules and components are ISO certified, BPA free, and are tested for food safety and durability. The capsule itself is made from polypropylene (the safest food-grade plastic.)
Cons: Bluecup lids are made from aluminium, and do need to be recycled. If your local recycling facility are unable to sort items of this size, you can simply collect them in an aluminium can, squeeze it shut when full, and place in your home recycling bin.
Bluecup are not infinitely reusable (though they are a vast improvement on the single-use variety). Generally, consumers should expect to get somewhere between 200 and 400 uses out of their Bluecup capsules. At the end of their life, they can be recycled in the same way as you would recycle other plastics, through your household recycling system.
SEALPOD
Pros: Made from 100% stainless steel, the SealPod capsule base is designed for a lifetime of use. Simply fill the base with ground coffee, and seal with your choice of compostable paper lid or recyclable aluminium lid. This super convenient system also delivers a great coffee with rich crema. Cost-effective and highly economical, this option only incurs an ongoing cost of 15¢ per lid.
SealPod can also be used to brew loose-leaf tea using the Biodegradable Lids.
Cons: Whilst the capsule base should outlive your machine, SealPod aluminium lids are a recyclable component. If your local recycling facility are unable to sort items of this size, again, simply collect you lids in an aluminium can, and place in your home recycling bin when full.
The verdict
Bluecup is our top pick as the ideal sustainable system for use with the Citiz machine. Bluecup is compatible with all Citiz machines, including DeLonghi and Breville models.
By refilling your capsule, and composting the grounds, you'll be drastically reducing your kitchen waste, whilst still enjoying the lovely espresso coffee that Bluecup is famous for.
Compatible models include the entire Citiz range (EN165B, EN165CW, EN167W, EN167B, EC600MR, EN265BAE,
EN265SAE, EN266BAE, EN266CWAE, EN267BAE, EN267WAE,
BEC650MC, BEC600MC, BEC600MR, BEC620SIL, BEC620RED,
BEC630CR, BEC650MR, BEC650MS, BEC660CRO etc.)
*Nespresso® and The Good Guys Discount Warehouse (Australia), Dec 2019.