Common French Press Mistakes (and How to Fix Them)

The French press is a beloved brewing method known for producing a rich, full-bodied cup of coffee. It’s simple, elegant, and ideal for anyone who wants to take control of their morning brew. But even though it appears straightforward, there are a few common missteps that can result in a bitter, gritty, or weak cup. Whether you’re new to brewing or just want to refine your technique, this guide will help you identify where things might be going wrong — and how to make it right. If you’re after step-by-step instructions, this French Press Brew Guide offers a great foundation. But here, we’ll dive into the common errors and how to fix them for a consistently great cup.

Using the Wrong Grind Size

The mistake: One of the most frequent errors with French press brewing is using pre-ground or overly fine coffee. Fine grinds, typically used for espresso, can slip through the mesh filter and create a silty or sludgy texture. The fix: Always use a coarse grind, similar in consistency to sea salt. This helps keep the grounds contained and allows for optimal extraction. Invest in a burr grinder if you want consistent grind size every time.

Poor Coffee-to-Water Ratio

The mistake: Guessing measurements or using too much or too little coffee can throw off your entire brew. Too little results in a weak cup, while too much creates an overly strong, sometimes bitter result. The fix: Stick to a ratio of 1:15 — that’s 1 gram of coffee for every 15 grams (or millilitres) of water. For example, 30 grams of coffee to 450 ml of water makes two strong cups. Use a digital scale to stay precise.

Water That’s Too Hot (or Too Cold)

The mistake: Pouring boiling water over your grounds can scorch the coffee, resulting in bitterness. On the other hand, water that’s too cool won’t extract enough flavour. The fix: Aim for a water temperature between 92°C and 96°C. If you don’t have a thermometer, let the kettle sit for 30 seconds after boiling before pouring.

Not Stirring the Grounds

The mistake: After pouring in the water, some people simply put the lid on and wait — which leaves clumps of dry grounds floating on the surface. The fix: Give the brew a gentle stir about 30 seconds in to ensure all grounds are saturated. This leads to even extraction and a better flavour balance.

Pressing Too Early or Too Late

The mistake: Timing is everything. Press too early, and the coffee will taste underdeveloped. Let it steep too long, and you’ll likely get bitter, over-extracted flavours. The fix: Steep your French press for about 4 minutes. Set a timer — don’t wing it. Then press slowly and evenly, applying gentle pressure.

Letting the Coffee Sit in the Press

The mistake: After plunging, leaving the coffee in the French press is a rookie mistake that continues extraction, leading to bitterness. The fix: As soon as you’ve pressed the plunger down, pour the coffee into your mug or a thermal carafe. This halts the brewing process and preserves the ideal taste.

Not Cleaning the Press Properly

The mistake: Old coffee oils and residue can build up in your press, which can affect the flavour of future brews. The fix: Disassemble the plunger after each use and give it a thorough rinse. Once a week, use mild detergent to clean all parts. Don’t forget the mesh filter and inner walls.

Mastering the French press isn’t difficult — it just requires a bit of attention to detail

By adjusting your grind size, measuring carefully, and sticking to proper brewing times, you’ll consistently enjoy a rich, smooth, café-quality cup right at home. Brew smart, and your mornings will never be the same.