The Beginner's Guide to Cleaning Your Instant Pot

So you've finally worked up the nerve to use your Instant Pot. Maybe you've figured out everything you need to know about making easy pressure cooker recipes, but now you wonder, "how do I take care of this thing?"

The good news is, taking care of your Instant Pot is really simple. It's not difficult to clean, and with these tips and tricks, you'll be able to keep your Instant Pot in tip-top shape.

The Basics of Cleaning Your Instant Pot:

• The exterior (sometimes referred to as the "shell" or "base") of the Instant Pot should never be immersed in water. The exterior can easily be wiped clean with a soapy washcloth.
• The rim of the exterior sometimes collects drips and crumbs. This area can be cleaned with a wet soapy washcloth, or a brush for those hard-to-reach crevices.
• The inner pot, or insert pot, can be washed with soap and water or put into the dishwasher. If it gets spotted stains (sometimes called "rainbow stains"), these can be cleaned with white vinegar or Bar Keeper's Friend cleaner.
• The lid, sealing ring, and vent shield can be washed with soapy water. These pieces are also dishwasher safe.
• One overlooked piece is the condensation cup at the back of the unit. This collects condensation and should be emptied and cleaned with soap and water (or placed in the dishwasher) after each use.

What if the Sealing Ring Smells?

The silicone sealing ring can take on the odors of the food that is cooked in the Instant Pot. For instance, if you make a batch of chili, you can expect your sealing ring to smell like that.

The downside to this is that the sealing ring can then impart that flavor to the next food you cook. So if you make a cheesecake next, it could end up having a slight hint of chili flavor.

To get the odor out of the sealing ring, add two cups of vinegar to the insert pot of the Instant Pot. Use the Steam function and select a 2 minute steam time. Afterward, the odor should be gone!

What if I Have Burnt Residue on the Insert Pot?

Certain ingredients are more likely to leave a burnt residue on the bottom of the insert pot. Things like milk (for instance, when making yogurt) or oatmeal can do this. That's one reason why I make my Instant Pot yogurt in jars and I use mugs to make single-serve oatmeal in the Instant Pot. Making those things in smaller containers helps to prevent the burnt residue.

But, if you do have burnt residue, you can try the following trick.

Add 2 cups of water, 2 Tablespoons of baking soda, and 1/4 tsp dish soap to the insert pot. Select a 3 minute cook time at high pressure. After the cook time is complete, allow at least a 10 minute natural release before performing a quick release of any pressure (or just allow a full natural release). That should loosen and soften the burnt residue, making it easier to scrub out.

That's it! By following a few simple steps, you'll be able to keep your Instant Pot clean and ready for the next easy recipe!

Chrysti writes at Margin Making Mom, where she helps busy women simplify food, family, and finances.