Drip Coffee Maker: The American Classic, Reinvented for Quality

For generations, the drip coffee maker has been the backbone of home and office coffee. With modern improvements in brewing technology and a focus on better beans, today’s drip coffee can be anything but ordinary.

History of Drip Brewing

The automatic drip brewer was popularized in the U.S. by brands like Mr. Coffee in the 1970s, but its roots go back to Melitta Bentz’s invention of the paper coffee filter in 1908 Germany. As American households shifted away from percolators, the convenience and consistency of drip makers won the day.

Cultural Impact and Milestones

Drip coffee is the fuel of countless morning routines, workdays, and family breakfasts. Its mass appeal shaped the U.S. coffee market, but the rise of specialty coffee has inspired home brewers to elevate their daily cup—trading commodity blends for fresh roasted, small batch coffee.

The Specialty Coffee Association has even created standards for optimal drip brewing, sparking a “home barista” revolution. Today, the best drip coffee is balanced, aromatic, and as enjoyable as any pour over.

Drip Brewing Tips

• Use a medium grind and a 1:17 ratio (e.g., 58g coffee per liter of water).
• Start with fresh, filtered water and clean your machine regularly.
• Use fresh roasted, ethically sourced beans for the fullest flavor.

Steel Oak Coffee’s small batch roasts turn an everyday drip into a daily highlight.

The Steel Oak Coffee Difference

Our beans are crafted to elevate even the simplest home brewer. Whether you like a rich breakfast blend or a bright single origin, you’ll notice the Steel Oak Coffee difference in every cup.

And if you're interested in checking out other brewing methods, take a look at our complete guide to brewing better coffee at home.