Unpleasant plastic or chemical taste in coffee from a new Russell Hobbs coffee maker.

Safety first: Normal operation; no extra hazards.

• Initial cleaning cycles: Run 2–3 full tanks of clean water through the machine without coffee.
• Use mild detergent: Wash the carafe, filter basket, and removable parts with warm soapy water and rinse thoroughly.
• Optional: Run one cycle with a mild vinegar solution (25% vinegar, 75% water), then rinse with 2–3 water cycles.
• If taste persists: Contact Russell Hobbs support; internal plastic parts may be defective and require replacement.