I guess I don't think the refillable pods make any more of a mess than a standard drip coffee maker.  I supposed most people are buying a keurig for convenience and then I would see why you wouldn't want to mess with a refillable pod.  My main reason for getting one was because I only drink 1-2 cups a day and I felt it was a waste to brew a whole pot for that. I suppose that same reasoning applies to why I don't use the pre-packaged pods, as I see that as a bit of waste too.