The French Press How to Guide: How It Works & Why It’s Awesome

If your idea of coffee bliss involves bold flavor, low fuss, and a dash of old-school charm—meet the French press. This timeless brewer has been around for over a century, and it’s still a favorite among coffee lovers who like their morning ritual hands-on and flavorful. In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly how to use a French press coffee maker—from water temperature to the perfect plunge. Whether you're a total beginner or just brushing up, we’ve got tips, ratios, and expert tricks to make your next cup smooth, rich, and worthy of a slow sip.

What Is a French Press Coffee Maker, Exactly?

Think of the French press as the slow-brewed love letter to coffee:

1. No electricity
2. No paper filters
3. No fancy bells or whistles

Just hot water, fresh coffee, a metal mesh filter, and a little patience.

It’s a full-immersion brew method, which means the coffee grounds steep directly in hot water for several minutes — kind of like tea. The result? A full-bodied, richly textured cup with all the oils and depth that paper-filtered coffee tends to leave behind.

What You’ll Need

Before we get into the how-to, let’s gather your French press toolkit:

Equipment:

1. French press coffee maker (any size, but 1L is the standard)
2. Kettle (gooseneck optional)
3. Coffee grinder (manual or electric — burr grinder preferred) Check out these detailed guides for electric and manual coffee grinders )
4. Scale (for precision) or a trusty tablespoon
5. Timer
6. Wooden spoon or stir stick

Ingredients:

1. Coarsely ground coffee (very important!)
2. Freshly boiled water (just off the boil — around 200°F / 93°C)

French Press Coffee Ratio

The golden ratio:

1 gram of coffee to every 15–17 grams of water

Or in spoon terms:

About 2 rounded tablespoons of coffee per 6–8 oz of water

Here’s a quick cheat sheet:

How to Make French Press Coffee (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Heat Your Water

Boil your water, then let it sit for 30 seconds.

You want it just under boiling — around 195–205°F (90–96°C).

Step 2: Grind Your Coffee

Grind your beans coarse — about the size of breadcrumbs or kosher salt.

Too fine = over-extraction + sludge.

Too coarse = weak, sad coffee.

Step 3: Add Coffee to the French Press

Add your measured grounds into the carafe. Level them out for even saturation.

Step 4: Bloom (Optional, But Worth It)

Pour just enough hot water to saturate the grounds (about twice the coffee weight).

Let it sit for 30 seconds — this releases CO₂ and preps the coffee for extraction.

Step 5: Add the Rest of the Water

Pour the rest of the water slowly and evenly. Give it a gentle stir to break the crust on top and ensure all grounds are wet.

Step 6: Steep

Place the lid on (don’t plunge yet!) and let the coffee steep for 4 minutes.

Some go longer — up to 6 minutes — for extra boldness. Experiment!

Step 7: Plunge

Slowly press the plunger down, using gentle but steady pressure.

If it feels stuck, your grind may be too fine. If it drops like a rock, too coarse.

Step 8: Serve Immediately

Don’t let it sit — the coffee will keep extracting and turn bitter.

Pour it all into cups or a separate carafe to keep it fresh and tasty.

Cleaning Tips (Because It Gets Grimy Fast)

1. Dump grounds in the compost or trash — not the sink (trust us).
2. Disassemble the filter and rinse thoroughly.
3. Deep clean with baking soda or vinegar every few weeks to remove oils.
4. Let it dry completely to prevent rust or mold.

Why People Love French Press Coffee

Full-bodied flavor with natural oils

No paper filter = less waste

Portable, durable, and no electricity required

Simple to use, hard to mess up

Works for coffee and loose-leaf tea

Common French Press Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)

Top 5 Best-Selling French Press Coffee Makers

1.Bodum Chambord (from $24)

If the phrase “French press” conjures images of vintage chrome, glass swirl, and timeless elegance — you’re likely picturing the Bodum Chambord. It’s not just a brewer; it’s the original, until-now unchanged classic that’s been quietly elevating mornings since the 1950s.

What Makes the Chambord So Beloved?

1. Iconic Design That Lasts

Its retro charm is undeniable — a sleek borosilicate glass carafe held by a chrome-plated steel frame, topped with a domed lid and rounded plunger. It remains the visual blueprint for what most people imagine a French press should look like.

2. Straightforward Brewing, No Fuss

Brewing is refreshingly simple: add coarse coffee, pour in hot water (195–205°F), let it steep, and press. No buttons, no gadgets — pure, hands-on coffee magic.

3. Built for Durability (Mostly)

With robust stainless steel and heat-resistant glass, it’s built to handle regular use. The handle grips beautifully without burning your knuckles.

Many users attest to almost five years of daily use — only replacing the glass beaker once.

4. Flavors That Sing

No paper filter means every aromatic oil stays behind in your cup, giving a rich, full-bodied flavor. The steel mesh filter provides a cleaner pour than a blade setup — though a bit of authentic sediment may sneak through.

What Could Trip You Up (Tiny Quirks)

1. Fragile Glass Component

The glass carafe is heat-safe but brittle. A rough cleaning session or knock against a sink edge can spell trouble. Reddit stories even include trips to the ER — so handle with care.

2. Filter Isn’t Hotel Lobby Level

The classic mesh and gasket design can let finer grounds slip through. Expect a bit of sediment — especially if your grind is too fine.

3. Plunger Isn’t Perfectly Snug

Users occasionally report a wobbly plunge experience, or that the filter doesn’t seal fully to the bottom — requiring a firm press to fully engage.

4. Plastic Lid & Spout Wear

While the plastic parts help reduce heat transfer, some find them less luxurious and note issues with longevity around the lid and pour spout.

5. Not a Thermos Substitute

Glass offers minimal insulation. Expect your coffee to cool noticeably in 5–10 minutes — especially if steeping or during longer brunch sessions.

Quick Specs Snapshot

Final Verdict: Is the Chambord Worth It?

Absolutely — if you love:

1. Aesthetic elegance that does match performance
2. A no-fuss brewing experience with rich, bold flavor
3. A durable, replaceable design that feels like an heirloom
4. A daily ritual with personality embedded in both form and function

Just be ready to treat it with a delicate touch — literally and figuratively.

2. Espro P3 (from $36)

Imagine the classic French press you know and love—then ask it to brew a bolder, cleaner, and sharper cup. Enter the Espro P3: a brilliant blend of tradition and innovation designed to deliver café-worthy coffee minus the grit. It’s the modern French press upgrade your countertop has been missing.

What Elevates the Espro P3 Above the Rest?

1. Double Micro‑Filter System

Unlike traditional presses, the P3 uses a patented dual-layer micro‑mesh filter that’s 9× and 12× finer than standard press screens. This precision filtering means fewer oil and sediment intruders in your cup. Unlike other grimy experiences, your coffee stays clean, bold, and delicious.

2. Instant Extraction Lock

Incorporated silicone seals create a tight fit that stops extraction the moment you plunge—no more overbrewed bitterness, just smooth consistency from the first pour to the last.

3. Tough & Trusted Materials

Crafted with Schott-Duran borosilicate glass that’s 40% thicker than average—and held securely with a Safety Lock mechanism—this press is built to withstand daily use without the drama.

4. Chef-Level Clean-Up

Dishwasher-safe components and straightforward filter maintenance mean cleanup is nearly as satisfying as that first bold sip.

What Might Trip You Up (Tiny Quirks)

Quick Specs at a Glance

Why Reviewers Keep It in the Winner's Circle

1. Top-Ranked Choice

Recognized by The Spruce Eats as their “Best Overall” French press thanks to grit-free performance and ease of use.

2. Aesthetic & Functional Appreciation

Serious Eats praises its clean design and multi-grind compatibility, while BestReviews lauds its balance of affordability and advanced filter tech.

3. Value-Price Sweet Spot

At around $40, it brings Espro’s high-performance filtration to a wider audience—significant upgrade, modest budget impact.

Final Brew Verdict

If you're over coffee sludge and crave clarity without compromising body, the Espro P3 delivers. Its dual-filter system, thoughtful materials, and smooth extraction make it stand out in the French press world.

Ideal for:

1. Coffee lovers seeking sludge-free indulgence
2. Home brewers who enjoy fine-tuning every cup
3. Anyone who values design as much as functionality

Just know you'll be juggling a few extra parts at cleanup—and your coffee cools faster. But for cleaner, richer flavor, that trade-off is often worth it.

3. Espro P7 (from $115)

Looking for a French press that doesn’t compromise between rich flavor and clean taste? Meet the Espro P7, a powerhouse brewer that blends sleek stainless steel, cozy insulation, and unmatched filtration into one show-stopping package.

What Makes the Espro P7 Shine?

1. Dual Micro-Mesh Filter System

This is where the magic happens. Using two ultra-fine stainless steel filters, the P7 captures nearly every bit of sediment, delivering a remarkably smooth and grit-free cup—far cleaner than your typical single-filter press.

2. Double-Walled Stainless Steel Insulation

Hot coffee, meet longevity. The vacuum-sealed, insulating body keeps your brew toasty for up to an hour, while the exterior stays cool to the touch. It’s café-quality warmth with none of the fragility

3. Elegant & Durable Design

With finishes like matte black, polished steel, and cranberry, the P7 looks as refined as it performs. Tagged as the Best Insulated French Press by Food & Wine, its stainless build also means zero cracked glass incidents.

Tiny Quirks to Consider

Quick Specs

What Reviewers Are Saying

1. The Spruce Eats crowned the P7 Best Insulated French Press for its superior design and consistent, clean brews.
2. Homes & Gardens named it the top non-toxic French press, highlighting its sleek stainless construction and sediment-free extraction.
3. Tom’s Guide praised its insulating performance and forgiving brew profile — mixed with a bit of charm — even calling skeptics to convert.
4. At Honest Coffee Reviews, users raved about the P7’s dependable grit-free output and sturdy craftsmanship, noting its tea versatility thanks to an extra micro-filter option.

Is the Espro P7 Worth It?

If you dream of full-bodied coffee without the grit, and appreciate warm, patient sips over hot-water wars, the Espro P7 delivers — and then some. It’s more than a brewer; it’s a statement piece, built to last and built to impress.

Perfect for:

1. Coffee and tea lovers who value clean cups and long-lasting warmth
2. Design-conscious folks who want function that looks fantastic
3. Brew rituals that are worth the investment

Maybe skip it if:

1. You’re strapped for budget or space
2. You crave ultra-light portability
3. You don’t want to juggle multiple filter parts during cleanup

4. Secura Stainless Steel French Press (from $26)

Think of the Secura as the burly, dependable cousin of your dainty glass French press—durable, heat-retaining, and endlessly practical. If you're looking for a press that works just as well when you're juggling breakfast as it does during weekend slow mornings, this is your MVP.

What Makes the Secura a Sensible and Stylish Choice?

1. Double-Wall 18/10 Stainless Steel Build

With high-grade stainless steel on both the inside and out, this press is built to resist dents, shatters, and the general wear of daily use. Plus, the double-wall design keeps your brew hot up to 60 minutes longer than typical glass models.

2. Triple-Layer Stainless Steel Filter (with Extras!)

Equipped with a three-tiered filter—more efficient than your average press—this design catches the finer coffee particles, giving you a cleaner cup. And bonus: two spare screens are included, so it’s ready for the long haul.

3. Cool-Touch Handle & Knob

Unlike some steel mugs that are a hazard zone, Secura keeps you safe with handles and knobs that stay comfortably cool to the touch—even when the contents are piping hot.

4. Easy Clean & Dishwasher Safe

All parts are dishwasher-safe. No more gentle hand washing—just drop it in and move on.

5. Amazing Value (Without the Yeti Price)

As AllRecipes noted, it’s a budget-friendly alternative to premium insulated presses like Yeti—but delivers nearly the same insulation performance and durability, at a fraction of the cost.

Tiny Quirks to Be Aware Of

Quick Specs Breakdown

Is the Secura Press Right for You?

Absolutely—if you:

1. Want something needle-proof that can survive real life (read: no shattered recent memories)
2. Crave better heat retention than your old glass press
3. Love the idea of extra filters and not having to part with your press when one wears out
4. Appreciate top-tier value without paying Yeti money

Maybe look elsewhere if:

1. You want something ultra-lightweight for travel
2. You demand absolutely zero sediment in your brew (espresso grinders only, perhaps)
3. You need a thermos rather than a stationary heat-retaining carafe

5. Fellow Clara (from $84)

If your kitchen leans minimalist-chic and you want your coffee gear to look the part, the Fellow Clara is the French press that not only plays the part—it owns it. With clever features, thoughtful design, and a premium build, it elevates the classic immersion brew to an elevated coffee experience.

What Makes the Clara Stand Out

1. Double-Wall Vacuum Insulation (Heat-Lock Tech)

Coffee stays hot longer—typically up to 3 hours—without turning your hand into a stovetop. Food & Wine and Serious Eats call it one of the best-insulated presses around.

2. Enhanced Mesh Filtration & Nonstick Interior

Enjoy a clean, full-bodied cup—fewer grounds, brighter flavor. The PTFE-coated interior makes cleanup easier, although not completely effortless.

3. All-Directional Pour Lid

Pour from any angle—no more aligning spouts. It’s clever, practical, and just a little bit magical.

4. Ratio-Aid Fill Lines & Agitation Stick

Skip the scale—just fill to the lines for coffee and water. Stir using the included flat “oar” agitator for even extraction. These thoughtful touches underscore Fellow’s design-first mindset.

5. Sleek, Durable Build & Aesthetic Appeal

Matte-black steel with optional walnut accents gives Clara a modern, gallery-ready stance. It’s a coffee maker that looks as good as it performs.

Tiny Quirks to Consider

What Experts and Fans Are Saying

1. Serious Eats crowned Clara as their favorite French press after testing 18 models—praising the heat retention, pour design, and easy cleanup.
2. HomeGrounds singled it out for its modern design, durable build, and clean, flavorful brews—even while noting the price.
3. Homes & Gardens and other reviewers highlight glowing user reviews—many calling it "the sturdiest" and “best insulator” they've owned.
4. Redditors offer mixed thoughts: some applaud the cleanliness and design, while others question whether it’s worth the premium over simpler models.

Quick Specs

Should You Go With the Fellow Clara?

It's a match if you:

1. Want a stylish, high-performance French press that elevates your counter
2. Crave clean, bright flavor, sans grit
3. Appreciate thoughtful usability features (fill lines, 360° pour)
4. Value solid heat retention for slow sippers
5. Don’t mind paying a premium for design and innovation

Maybe pass if you:

1. Are budget-conscious and need the cheapest solid press
2. Need high capacity for groups or frequent brewing
3. Prefer ultra-easy cleanup (like turkeys lifting grounds or paper filters)

Quick Comparison Table at a Glance

Final Thoughts

French presses remain a coffee staple for good reason—they’re simple, effective, and endlessly satisfying. Whether you're drawn to the timeless body of a Bodum, the refined performance of Espro, or the modern flair of the Fellow, one thing is clear: the right press can elevate your daily brew ritual.

Is French Press Coffee Right for You?

Perfect for:

1. Coffee drinkers who love bold, rich flavor
2. People who enjoy slow mornings and rituals
3. Anyone who doesn’t want to fuss with filters or power outlets
4. Those who like full control over strength and brew time

Not ideal for:

1. People who want super clean, tea-like coffee (try pour-over instead)
2. Fans of automatic or set-it-and-forget-it coffee makers
3. Espresso lovers (this ain’t it)

French Press, Reimagined

The French press isn’t just a relic of college dorms and Airbnb cabinets — it’s a versatile, reliable, and underrated brew method that delivers rich, robust coffee with minimal gear and max flavor.

So next time someone asks “How do you make French press coffee?” — you’ll not only know how, you’ll be able to show them how to do it right.

Now go forth, brew boldly, and press like you mean it.