If you’ve ever used an Instant Pot, you know how quickly and easily they can cook meals. However, if you’re not careful, you can end up with a burnt bottom on your meal – something nobody wants! Fortunately, there are ways to clean the burnt mess off of your Instant Pot so that it looks as good as new.
In this blog post, we’ll walk through step-by-step instructions on how to clean burnt instant pot while still preserving its non-stick properties and ensuring no damage is done in the process.
With these tips in hand, you’ll be able to keep using your Instant Pot for years without worrying about messy surprises!
What Will You Need?
Before you get started, gathering the supplies and materials you’ll need to clean a burnt Instant Pot is important. Here’s what you should have on hand:
- Dish soap
- Baking soda
- A nonabrasive scrub brush or sponge
Once you have all these supplies, you’re ready to start the cleaning process!
8 Easy Steps on How to Clean Burnt Instant Pot
Step 1. Unplug and Cool Down the Instant Pot:
The first step in cleaning your burnt Instant Pot is to ensure safety by unplugging it from the power outlet and allowing it to cool down completely. Never attempt to clean a hot pot, as it can lead to burns. You can also put on some gloves and use oven mitts to handle the pot as an extra precaution.
Step 2. Remove and Clean the Inner Pot:
After ensuring the Instant Pot is completely cooled, remove the inner pot. Rinse it with warm water and dish soap. For stubborn, burnt-on food, create a paste by mixing warm water and baking soda in a 1:2 ratio.
Apply the paste to the burnt areas and let it sit for about 15-20 minutes. Afterward, use the nonabrasive scrub brush or sponge to scrub off the burnt residue gently. Rinse it again with warm water and dry it with a clean towel.
Step 3. Clean the Instant Pot Exterior:
Moving on to the exterior of the Instant Pot, use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe it down. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or sponges on the exterior, as they can scratch the surface.
Pay close attention to the control panel – keeping this area clean and free from residue is important to ensure your Instant Pot functions correctly. Dry the exterior thoroughly with a clean cloth to prevent any water stains or marks.
Step 4. Clean the Lid and Sealing Ring:
Next, focus on the lid of the Instant Pot. Remove the sealing ring and wash it with warm water and dish soap. Check the sealing ring for any cracks or damage – if found, it should be replaced. For the lid, use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down both sides gently.
Be sure to clean under the lip of the lid, where food residue can often accumulate. If any food particles are lodged in the steam release valve or the float valve, use a small brush or toothpick to remove them gently. Once cleaned, dry the lid and the sealing ring thoroughly before reassembling.
Step 5. Reassemble the Instant Pot:
After all parts of the Instant Pot have been thoroughly cleaned and dried, it’s time to reassemble. Begin by placing the sealing ring back into the lid, ensuring it’s seated properly.
Then, put the lid back onto the Instant Pot. Make sure to align the arrows on the lid and the pot for a correct fit. Finally, insert the cleaned inner pot back into the Instant Pot. With everything back in place, your Instant Pot is ready for your next cooking adventure!
Step 6. Regular Maintenance and Care:
To prevent burnt food from sticking to your Instant Pot in the future, consider implementing some regular maintenance and care practices. Always make sure to deglaze the pot after sautéing, which means adding a bit of liquid to the hot pot and scraping any food particles that might be stuck to the bottom.
Additionally, try not to overfill the Instant Pot as it can cause food to stick and burn. Keeping your Instant Pot clean and well-maintained will not only prolong its lifespan but also improve the overall cooking experience.
Step 7. Deep Clean Occasionally:
Even with regular maintenance, it’s a good idea to give your Instant Pot a deep clean every few months or more frequently if you use it often. This involves repeating the steps mentioned above but also includes detaching and cleaning the anti-block shield on the lid’s underside.
To do this, simply push the shield on one side, and it will unclip, allowing you to clean it with warm soapy water. Once cleaned, snap it back into place. Also, remember to clean the condensation collector by removing it from the Instant Pot and washing it out. Remember, a clean Instant Pot is a happy and efficient Instant Pot.
Step 8. Deodorize If Needed:
If you notice any lingering food smells after cleaning your Instant Pot, deodorizing might be necessary. Fill the inner pot with 2 cups of water and add 1 cup of white vinegar. Place the lid on the Instant Pot, seal it, and set it to ‘Steam’ for 2 minutes.
Once done, release the pressure and remove the lid. Let the inner pot air dry, and the smell should be gone. Remove and clean the sealing ring, as it can retain odors. Consider adding a few slices of lemon to the vinegar solution for a natural, fresh scent.
Following these eight easy steps will make your Instant Pot as good as new! With a little effort and attention, you can keep your Instant Pot in top condition for years. So don’t be afraid of the occasional burnt pot – cleaning it will be a breeze with these steps!
5 Additional Tips and Tricks
- If your Instant Pot is still not clean after deep cleaning, try using a specialized product like Bar Keepers Friend or baking soda to get it sparkling.
- Always deglaze the pot after sautéing by adding a bit of liquid and scraping any particles stuck to the bottom.
- If there is food lodged in the steam release valve, use a small brush or toothpick to remove it gently.
- Use oven mitts when handling the pot to avoid burns.
- For a natural, fresh scent, add some slices of lemon to the vinegar solution during deodorization.
By following these tips and tricks and the cleaning steps outlined above, you can ensure that your Instant Pot remains clean and efficient for years to come!
5 Things You Should Avoid
- Don’t Use Abrasive Cleaners or Tools: Avoid abrasive cleaners or tools to keep your Instant Pot’s surface shiny and scratch-free. Stick to mild dish soap, warm water, and soft cloths or non-abrasive scrub brushes.
- Avoid Cleaning a Hot Pot: Always wait until your Instant Pot has cooled down completely before you start cleaning. Cleaning a hot pot poses a risk of burns and can damage the appliance.
- Never Immerse the Base in Water: The base of the Instant Pot contains the heating element and electronics. Immersing it in water can cause severe damage and pose a safety risk. Only the inner pot, lid, and sealing ring should be washed with water.
- Don’t Put Parts in the Dishwasher If They Aren’t Dishwasher Safe: While the inner pot, sealing ring, and steam rack are typically dishwasher safe, other parts may not be. Always refer to the Instant Pot’s user manual to confirm which parts are dishwasher safe.
- Avoid Overfilling the Pot: Overfilling the Instant Pot results in undercooked food and can be dangerous. It can cause food to splatter and possibly interfere with the pressure release valve. Always follow the pot’s fill guidelines to ensure safe and effective cooking.
Avoiding these common mistakes will help you keep your Instant Pot in the best condition possible!
What Liquid to Deglaze?
Deglazing is important in keeping your Instant Pot clean and food residue-free. It involves adding a bit of liquid to the pot after sautéing and scraping off any food particles stuck to the bottom. Depending on what you’re cooking, several liquids can be used for deglazing.
Additionally, it’s important to remember that the liquid you use for deglazing should be appropriate for the dish and not too acidic. If in doubt, always refer to the recipe or manufacturer instructions. Common liquids used for deglazing include:
- Stock
- Wine
- Broth
- Apple cider vinegar
- Beer
- Water
- Milk
- Juice
Combining deglazing with regular maintenance and occasional deep cleaning will ensure that your Instant Pot is always in top condition!
Conclusion
Now you know how to clean burnt instant pot. This simple cleaning routine should take at most 30 minutes from start to finish and leave your pot as good as new. It’s important to pay close attention to any signs of corrosion or damage during the cleaning process so you can act quickly and prevent it from worsening.
Once you’ve completed the cleaning task, follow all instructions from your Instant Pot’s manual for use and maintenance to keep your appliance working optimally and with minimal risk of future damage.
A well-maintained Instant Pot can continue providing delicious meals for many years! So don’t forget — with some elbow grease, soap, water, white vinegar, and baking soda, your burnt Instant Pot will look brand new again in no time!