An espresso knock box is a tool used to dispose of spent coffee grounds after brewing espresso. It is typically a cylindrical container with a bar across the top that is used to “knock” or tap the portafilter (the device that holds the coffee grounds and attaches to the espresso machine) against to release the spent grounds. The spent grounds are collected in the container for easy disposal.
In fact, a knock box is a little box you set next to your espresso machine so that you can easily (and cleanly) throw away your pucks after every time you pull a shot. What makes a knock box a knock box is a bar that runs horizontally across the box for you to bang your portafilter to expel the puck.
If you’re frequently brewing espresso, you’ll know it generates a lot of coffee grounds. To remove the coffee puck from the filter basket, you need somewhere to knock out your portafilter. Continually knocking your coffee puck on the edge of your trash bin or sink not only damages your portafilter and kitchen but also splashes coffee residue onto your pristine white walls. You definitely want to avoid this.
Furthermore, separating coffee grounds can bring additional benefits. Use the knocked-out coffee for composting, place a container in the fridge to neutralize odors, or even use it as a body scrub! Hence, a knock box is perfect for every home barista.
