Why Do You Spray Coffee Beans?
If you've ever watched someone lightly mist their coffee beans before grinding, you might wonder—why the extra step? Spraying coffee beans, known as the Ross Droplet Technique (RDT), is a simple but effective method to reduce static electricity during grinding. This small tweak can significantly improve your coffee workflow, especially when using a grinder with a metal chute or dosing cup.
What Is the Ross Droplet Technique (RDT)?
The Ross Droplet Technique involves adding a tiny amount of water to coffee beans before grinding. This helps neutralize static buildup, reducing the amount of fine coffee particles that cling to the grinder and surrounding surfaces. While static may seem like a minor issue, it can lead to messy coffee prep and inconsistent dosing.
Why Spray Coffee Beans?
1. Reduces Static and Mess
Freshly ground coffee tends to stick to the grinder’s chute, portafilter, or dosing cup due to static electricity. Spraying the beans before grinding helps minimize this effect, making your coffee prep cleaner and reducing waste.
2. Improves Dose Consistency
With less static, more coffee grounds fall directly into the portafilter or dosing cup rather than sticking to the grinder. This leads to more accurate dosing, which is crucial for dialing in your espresso shots.
3. Enhances Workflow Efficiency
A cleaner grind chamber means fewer retained grounds and less frequent grinder cleaning. Over time, this can save you effort and ensure that every dose is as fresh as possible.
How to Use the RDT Method
- Prepare Your Beans – Weigh out your coffee beans before grinding.
- Lightly Mist – Use a fine spray bottle (like Hypergrind’s RDT Coffee Mister) to apply a small amount of water—just one or two sprays is enough.
- Swirl and Grind – Gently shake the beans to distribute the moisture evenly, then grind as usual.
Is RDT Safe for Your Grinder?
Yes, when done correctly. The key is using minimal water—just enough to control static without introducing excess moisture. This technique has been widely used without causing damage to burr grinders, provided the water is evenly distributed and not excessive.
Who Should Use RDT?
If you’re using a single-dose grinder or grinding espresso with a machine that generates a lot of static, RDT can be a game-changer. It’s especially useful for those who want a cleaner workflow and more precise dosing.
Final Thoughts
Spraying coffee beans before grinding is a small step that can make a big difference in your espresso preparation. By reducing static, improving consistency, and keeping your workspace cleaner, RDT is a simple technique worth trying—especially if you want to get the most out of your coffee setup.
Explore Hypergrind’s range of dosing accessories, including our RDT Coffee Mister, to elevate your coffee workflow today!