✦ Brew Clever Dripper Like a Pro ✦
How To Brew with a Clever Dripper
COMBINE THE BEST OF POUR-OVER & IMMERSION—WITH NONE OF THE FUSS
The Clever Dripper Lowdown
The Clever Dripper is a brilliantly simple hybrid brewer that merges the clean flavors of pour-over with the forgiving immersion method of a French press. Thanks to its valve-based design, you can steep your coffee fully, then drain it into your mug—making it ideal for beginners and coffee lovers who value consistency, clarity, and ease.
Clever Dripper Fundamentals
Equipment
- Clever Dripper
- #4 paper filter
- Gooseneck kettle
- Digital scale (0.1g accuracy recommended)
- Timer
- Spoon or stirring stick
- Mug or carafe
OPTIONAL:
- Burr grinder (if grinding whole beans)
- Thermometer (for accurate water temperature if your kettle doesn’t have one)
Brew Ratio
- Mild: 1:18 coffee-to-water ratio
- Average: 1:16 coffee-to-water ratio
- Strong: 1:15 coffee-to-water ratio
- Robust: 1:13 coffee-to-water ratio
- Adjust to taste for more strength or clarity
NOTE: When it comes to water, 1 milliliter (mL) = 1 gram (g)—so measuring by volume or weight will give you the same result!
Grind Size
- Ideal Grind: Medium-fine ground (similar to table salt)
- Too fine will result in a slow drain and a bitter brew; too coarse will underextract and can lead to a weak brew
Water Temp
- Ideal Range: 195°F to 205°F (90.5°C to 96°C)
- Let boiling water sit for 30 seconds before pouring if not using a thermometer
Step #1
Prep & Rinse
Set up for a smooth, clean brew with even saturation.
Substeps:
- PLACE FILTER IN BREWER: Insert a #4 paper filter in the Clever Dripper.
- RINSE WITH HOT WATER: Pour hot water through to rinse paper taste and preheat the dripper. Discard the rinse water.
- GRIND BEANS (IF APPLICABLE): If you're grinding at home, use a burr grinder set to a medium-fine setting. The texture should resemble table salt. If using pre-ground coffee, ensure it’s labeled medium grind for Clever Dripper brewing.
- WEIGH YOUR COFFEE: Use 22g of coffee as a great starting point—adjust up or down to suit your taste or batch size.
- ADD TO DRIPPER: Place the Clever Dripper on a flat surface and add the coffee.
Useful Tips:
- Rinsing preheats the brewer and eliminates paper flavors.
- Use filtered water for best clarity.
- Set the dripper on a sturdy, level surface so it sits evenly before steeping.
Relevant FAQs
Can I use other filters?
Stick with #4 cone filters for best fit and flow.
Can I pre-grind my coffee?
You sure can, but freshly ground coffee yields the best flavor and aroma.
How much coffee should I use?
Start with 22g for a 12oz brew. Adjust to taste or batch size.
Step #2
Steep & Stir
Enjoy the consistency of immersion-style brewing.
Substeps:
- POSITION YOUR SCALE: Place your scale under the Clever Dripper so you can track your water weight as you pour. This ensures accuracy and consistency in your brew.
- START THE TIMER & POUR: Begin timer and pour all your water evenly over the grounds.
- STIR GENTLY: Give a quick stir to ensure all coffee is fully saturated.
- COVER & STEEP: Place the lid on the dripper and let it steep for about 3 minutes.
Useful Tips:
- Pour slowly and evenly to saturate grounds without disturbing the bed.
- A light stir improves extraction without over-agitating.
- Use a spoon or paddle to stir—not metal if your dripper is plastic.
Relevant FAQs
Can I steep longer than 3 minutes?
Yes—3 to 3:30 minutes is typical. Longer steeps intensify body.
What if I forget to stir?
Stirring improves even extraction, but it will still brew—just slightly less uniform.
Should I keep the lid on while steeping?
Yes—it helps maintain temperature and prevents evaporation.
Step #3
Drain & Serve
This is where immersion meets clean filtration.
Substeps:
- PLACE ON MUG OR SERVER: Set your Clever Dripper over your cup or carafe.
- LET IT DRAIN COMPLETELY: The built-in valve will release the coffee. Let it drain fully—this takes 1 to 1.5 minutes.
- ENJOY: Remove the brewer, swirl your cup or carafe, and serve.
Useful Tips:
- Don’t rush the drain—it’s part of the brew.
- Swirling mixes extraction layers for better consistency.
- Serve immediately for best clarity and flavor.
Relevant FAQs
Can I lift it off mid-drain?
Best not to—let it finish to ensure full extraction.
What if it drains too slowly?
Check your grind—too fine of a grind causes clogs.
Can I reuse the filter?
Paper filters are single-use. Compost after brewing!
Handy Tools
Perfect Picks for Clever Dripper
Still Have Questions?
Don’t worry—we’re here to help! If something’s not quite clicking or you’re just looking for extra brewing clarity, our Brew Crew is just a message away.
