Discover our home compostable Original capsules

Try these tips to get the best coffee experience from Nespresso's home-compostable Original capsules:

• First, open the freshness pouch with scissors.
• After making your Nespresso coffee, wait a few seconds for the capsule to cool, then eject it by gently lifting the lever. Check that the capsule drops down into the capsule bin. We recommend emptying the capsule bin at least once a day and cleaning it regularly as part of your machine maintenance routine.
• Throw your used capsules into your home compost or in your Nespresso compost bin (before throwing it in your home compost).
• Store unused capsules in the pouch, closing it after each use and securing it with a clip. Keep the pouch in a cool, dry place, but not in your fridge.
• Remember to enjoy your paper-based capsules within two to four weeks after opening the pouch for the best coffee experience.

By following these simple steps, you can enjoy a delicious cup of coffee with Nespresso's home-compostable Original capsules.

As part of the TÜV OK Home Compost certification process, our paper-based capsules were tested under controlled conditions (at 28°C) and the results showed they composted within 6 months. However, the length of time it takes for the capsules to compost in your garden depends on various factors, such as the management and conditions of your home compost.
For example, many people find that composting takes longer during the colder months. So, while we can’t give you an exact timeframe for composting in your garden, we can assure you that our capsules are designed to compost with the rest of your kitchen and garden waste.

No. The Nespresso paper-based capsule contains coffee grounds that contaminate the paper recycling process. Please do not place the capsule in your paper recycling bin.

Can you see the entire capsule?

Yes
The possible cause of the capsule becoming stuck is that it is wet and is sticking to part of the machine interior or that it has tilted inside the machine (above the brewing unit). In that case, we suggest using the tip of a teaspoon to gently apply pressure on the highest side of the capsule, to correct the angle of the tilt (make it horizontal). The capsule should now drop through the machine. Please do not use your finger.

No
It’s possible the capsule may be stuck inside the brewing unit of your machine. We advise you to wait a couple of minutes for the capsule to cool, then slowly and gently close and lift the lever again. This should eject the paper-based capsule. If it remains blocked in the brewing unit, we suggest waiting at least 15 minutes (an hour if possible), then repeating this process.

Check the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h2Bh7dGVYuI

Please don’t insert your fingers or any tools into the brewing unit to dislodge the capsule. If the problem persists, contact us: 0800 162 64 / (+32 2 788 09 60)

The capsule can be recycled in your compost at home and should not be disposed with organic waste or paper waste.

Nespresso compostable coffee capsules are designed to be used with Nespresso Original coffee machines. These capsules are made from materials (paper and biodegradable lining) that can decompose naturally in a composting environment, reducing their environmental impact.

From 1 January 2023, you can dispose of your used coffee capsules in your blue PMC bag. The bag will then be collected and taken to the nearest recycling center.

Using coffee grounds in compost can provide several benefits, enhancing the composting process and improving the quality of the resulting compost.
Nutrient-rich: coffee grounds are rich in nitrogen, which is an essential nutrient for plant growth. When added to compost, they help create a balanced nutrient mix, providing vital nutrients such as phosphorus, potassium, magnesium and copper.
Improves soil structure: compost containing coffee grounds can improve soil structure, making it more friable and better able to retain moisture. This helps promote healthy root growth and improves overall soil health.
Attracts beneficial organisms: coffee grounds in compost can attract beneficial organisms like earthworms and microorganisms. These organisms help break down organic material more efficiently and contribute to soil aeration and fertility.
Balances carbon-rich materials: coffee grounds are considered "green" compost material, meaning they are high in nitrogen. They help balance "brown" compost materials like leaves, straw, and paper, which are high in carbon. This balance is crucial for the composting process, ensuring that materials break down properly.
Odour control: coffee grounds can help neutralise odours in compost. This is particularly beneficial if you are composting kitchen scraps that might otherwise produce unpleasant smells.
To maximise these benefits, it's important to use coffee grounds as part of a balanced compost mix, combining them with other green and brown materials to ensure efficient decomposition and nutrient balance.

An LCA (life cycle assessment) conducted by expert external firm Quantis in Switzerland shows that the environmental impact of a coffee made with a home compostable Nespresso paper-based capsule is comparable to a coffee made with a Nespresso recycled aluminum capsule that’s also recyclable. The paper-based capsule is another alternative to the current recycled aluminium capsules for those who have access to and prefer to compost. You can read more here