Coffe Pots. Pods vs. Brew
Other options you can include to give your guests the royal 5 star treatment is to include an espresso maker, French Press and tea pot. Having all of these options available on your coffee bar will ensure you have very happy guest com morning time.
A coffee bar is a must have. In fact, it is on my list of top 10 must haves in your STR. A well rounded coffee bar would also include tea, hot chocolate, decaf, cream, and sugar. You can also add flavorings to jazz up your bar. But, this review is on coffee pots. What is the best way to deliver a top cup of joe to your guests.
Let’s explore the pros and cons of Pods and traditional Brew style pots.
#1 Pod style coffee makers.
PROS: Convenience, guest can make a single serving. Multiple coffee flavors can be offered. Clean up is easy. Easy to use.
CONS: Pod machines are more expensive to purchase and maintain. Pods are more expensive that the equivalent brew grounds. Pods have a negative environmental impact as most are not recycle-able. Taste is sub par to fresh brewed. Water can become stale in reservoir and slime can build up internally.
#2 Traditional brew coffee makers.
PROS: Cost is less expensive to purchase and operate. Guest can control strength of brew, and control over the brewing process. Easy clean up with minimal to no waste. Brew more than one cup at a time. With a house full this is a must. Flavor is more robust. Grounds are cheaper to provide than pods
CONS: Extra steps to make a brew pot of coffee. Less flavors to choose from. Clean up can be a little messy.
#1 Our overall pick is this traditional brew pot. The thermal carafe is a must have along with auto shut off. No more replacing glass carafes that get easily broken.
BLACK+DECKER 12 Cup Thermal Programmable Coffee Maker with Auto Off, Brew Strength and VORTEX Technology, Black/Steel, CM2046S
#2 Triple action coffee center. Brew a large pot, brew single serve, or use a K-cup pod. This is #2 because it does not come with a stainless carafe.
Hamilton Beach 49915 FlexBrew Trio 2-Way Coffee Maker, Compatible with K-Cup Pods or Grounds, Single Serve & Full 12c Pot, Permanent Gold-Tone Filter, Fast Brewing
#3 The original Keurig is still the best Pod styled coffee maker around. Durable, simple and compact.
Keurig K-Compact Single-Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker, Black
If you have questions on other kitchen appliances, please reach out and we would be happy to help.
-Heidi