An Instant Pot is a versatile and convenient appliance that can cook a variety of dishes in a fraction of the time. However, to keep it functioning well and prevent odors and bacteria, it is important to clean it properly after every use. In this guide, we will show you how to clean each part of your Instant Pot, from the base to the lid, using simple household items. We will also share some tips on how to deep clean your Instant Pot to remove any stubborn stains or mineral deposits.
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
What You’ll Need
Before you start cleaning your Instant Pot, make sure you have the following items ready:
- Dish soap
- Warm water
- Soft sponge or cloth
- Vinegar
- Q-tips or a small brush
- Towel or dishcloth
These are the basic supplies you will need to clean your Instant Pot. You may also use some baking soda or a non-abrasive stainless steel cleaner for some parts, as we will explain later.
Step 2: Disassembly and Basic Cleaning
Unplug and Disassemble
The first step is to unplug your Instant Pot from the power outlet and let it cool down completely. Then, remove the lid and the inner pot from the base. You can also detach the steam rack, the sealing ring, the anti-block shield, the steam release valve, and the float valve from the lid. These are the parts that you will need to wash separately.
Basic Wipe Down
Next, use a damp cloth to wipe down the exterior and interior of the base. Do not immerse the base in water or use any harsh chemicals, as this may damage the electrical components. Also, avoid touching the heating element with the cloth. If there are any food particles or grease on the base, use a mild dish soap to gently remove them.
Step 3: Deep Cleaning and Descale
Vinegar Solution
If you use your Instant Pot frequently, or if you have hard water in your area, you may notice some mineral deposits or scale on the inner pot or the lid. To remove them, you can use a vinegar solution to descale your Instant Pot. To do this, fill the inner pot with 3 cups of water and 1 cup of vinegar. You can also add some lemon peels for a fresh scent. Then, lock the lid and turn the pressure valve to SEALING. Choose the STEAM function and set the timer for 3 minutes. When done, allow natural release for 10 minutes, then release the remaining pressure and open the lid. Remove the seal ring, rinse both the lid and the ring with water, and let them dry completely.
Steam Vent and Float Valve
The steam vent and the float valve are the parts that regulate the pressure and steam inside the Instant Pot. They may also get clogged with food particles or grease over time. To clean them, you can use a Q-tip or a small brush dipped in vinegar to gently wipe them. You can also remove the float valve by pushing it from the bottom and pulling it out from the top. Make sure to rinse and dry them well before putting them back.
Step 4: Drying and Reassembly
Towel Dry
After washing all the parts of your Instant Pot, you should dry them thoroughly with a towel or a dishcloth. This will prevent any water spots or rust from forming on the stainless steel surfaces. You can also leave them to air dry on a rack or a counter, but make sure they are completely dry before reassembling them.
Reassemble
Once all the parts are dry, you can reassemble your Instant Pot. Start by placing the inner pot back into the base. Then, attach the anti-block shield, the sealing ring, the steam release valve, and the float valve to the lid. Make sure they are secured in place and aligned correctly. Finally, place the lid on the base and lock it. You can also put the steam rack inside the inner pot, if you wish.
FAQs
How often should I clean my Instant Pot?
You should clean your Instant Pot after every use, and deep clean it at least once a month. This will help you prevent any odors, bacteria, or malfunctions, and extend the life of your Instant Pot.
How do I get rid of the smell from the sealing ring?
The sealing ring is the silicone ring that seals the lid and prevents steam from escaping. It is also the part that tends to absorb odors and flavors from the food. To clean it, you can either hand wash it with warm water and dish soap, or place it on the top rack of the dishwasher. To remove any lingering smells, you can soak it in vinegar for a few hours, or place it in the freezer for a day. Some users also recommend having separate sealing rings for savory and sweet dishes, to avoid cross-contamination.
How do I prevent food from sticking to the inner pot?
he inner pot is the part that comes in direct contact with the food, so it may have some residue or stains from cooking. To prevent food from sticking to the inner pot, you can follow these tips:
1. Use enough liquid when cooking, as this will help create steam and prevent burning.
2. Use a non-stick cooking spray or oil to coat the inner pot before adding the food.
3. Use the sauté function to brown the food before pressure cooking, as this will create a layer of flavor and prevent sticking.
4. Deglaze the inner pot after sautéing, by adding some water or broth and scraping the bottom with a wooden spoon.
5. Use the natural release method when cooking starchy or foamy foods, such as rice, beans, or pasta, as this will reduce the pressure gradually and prevent clogging.
How do I clean the steam release valve and the float valve?
The steam release valve and the float valve are the parts that regulate the pressure and steam inside the Instant Pot. They may also get clogged with food particles or grease over time. To clean them, you can use a Q-tip or a small brush dipped in vinegar to gently wipe them. You can also remove the float valve by pushing it from the bottom and pulling it out from the top. Make sure to rinse and dry them well before putting them back.
Final Thoughts
Congratulations, you have successfully cleaned your Instant Pot! By following these simple steps, you can keep your appliance in good condition and ready for your next recipe. Remember to clean your Instant Pot after every use, and to deep clean it at least once a month. This will help you prevent any odors, bacteria, or malfunctions, and extend the life of your Instant Pot. Happy cooking!