How to Clean an Instant Pot, Including the Parts You Might Miss

How to Clean an Instant Pot

Use our tested method for cleaning and caring for your pressure cooker.

1. Unplug and Disassemble

   Make sure your Instant Pot is unplugged and cooled down before you begin cleaning. Remove the lid, steam rack, and inner stainless steel pot from the base. At this time, you might also want to check for damage to the cord or any needed repairs.
   

2. Clean the Base

   Much like a slow cooker, the base of your pressure cooker contains the heating element and electronic components, so this part should never be submerged in water or placed in the dishwasher. To clean the Instant Pot base, wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth, removing crumbs or food splatters. If you need to clean the inside of the base, wipe it with a clean, damp cloth and immediately dry the interior. Clean the recessed area around the lip of the base with a small scrubbing brush or toothbrush to remove any stuck-on food.
   

3. Wash Inner Pot and Steam Rack

   The inner bowl and steam rack are made of stainless steel, so these can be washed by hand in warm, soapy water, or for tougher food stains or particles, it can be placed in the dishwasher on either rack. Over time, you might notice water stains or discoloration on the bottom of the inner pot, which can be easily removed with vinegar. To renew the finish, pour 1 cup of white vinegar into the stainless-steel bowl and let it sit for 5 minutes before pouring it out and rinsing with water. Avoid using steel wool or abrasive cleaners, which can damage the stainless steel.

   How to Clean Stainless Steel (Even Those Dark Water Stains!)
4. Clean Instant Pot Lid and Components

   Before cleaning your pressure cooker's lid, the anti-block shield and silicone sealing ring should be removed and cleaned separately. The anti-block shield is a small round or oval element (depending on your pressure cooker) installed underneath the lid. To remove the shield, use your thumb to gently push the piece toward the rim of the lid, then lift up to pop it off. Hand-wash the shield in warm, soapy water and wipe it dry with a clean cloth. Remove the sealing ring and inspect it carefully for cracking, warping, or other damage, which are signs you need to replace it. The sealing ring can be handwashed in soapy water or placed in the dishwasher. Because it's heat-resistant, you can place it on either rack of your dishwasher.

   With the anti-block shield and sealing ring removed, wash the Instant Pot lid in warm, soapy water or place it on the top rack of the dishwasher. (Yes, the lid is dishwasher-safe.) Once clean, check the lid's steam release valve and float valve to ensure they're clear of food particles that could prevent the cooker from maintaining pressure. If needed, remove and handwash the cup that collects condensation.
   

5. Reassemble Instant Pot

   Once all parts are clean and dry, reassemble the Instant Pot lid. Double-check that the sealing ring, anti-block shield, and float valve are securely in place, as these are essential for the cooker to function properly. Put all the pieces back together on the base and enjoy your newly clean Instant Pot.