Steam wand is blocked or steams unevenly
Steam comes out of only some holes, sprays sideways, or the flow is noticeably weaker than it used to be.
Applies to: Espresso machine, Latte, Cappuccino
Safety note
Steam is hotter than boiling water. Never attempt to clear holes while the machine is switched on or pressurised, and never enlarge them with a pin — a deformed hole permanently changes the steam pattern.
Likely causes and adjustments
Try one adjustment at a time so you know what actually changed the result. Start with the first cause below — if it doesn't help, reveal the next.
Cause 1 of 2 · Commonly the cause
Dried milk inside the tip
Is the wand purged and wiped immediately after every drink?
Soak the tip in a milk-system cleaner following the product's instructions, then purge thoroughly.
Related issues
Learn the technique
Step-by-step guides to the skills this problem comes from.