The Instant Pot has quickly become the darling of the kitchen for many people. Not only does it multitask and do the work of several appliances, it also helps get dinner on the table in a hurry. Wondering what the best way to clean and care for your Instant Pot is? Let’s take a look at that today, including how to clean that odor-trapping silicone ring. 
Cleaning Cloth Kit / Detail Cleaning Brush
The Instant Pot doesn’t require much maintenance after you clean the insert and wipe down the exterior. However, to keep it in tip-top shape and ensure that you are getting a good seal, it is recommended to give it an occasional deep clean. Let’s get started!
SUPPLIES:
- warm water
- mild dish soap or castile soap
- microfiber cleaning cloth
- small detail brush
Simple Steps to Follow:
- Unplug the Instant Pot.
- Put some warm water in a bowl and add several drops of mild dish soap or castile soap. Submerge your microfiber cloth in the bowl and wring thoroughly so that it is just damp. Wipe down the exterior of the Instant Pot, taking care that you don’t use too much water. Alternatively you can spray an soap-based all-purpose cleaner like this one on the exterior and wipe clean.
- Use a small detail brush and gently scrub around the recessed area where the lid goes to remove excess crumbs and residue. Use your cloth to wipe away the residue after scrubbing.
- Remove the rubber stopper and filter in the lid and carefully hand wash and air dry. I put these parts in a small glass with a squirt of dish soap to keep them out of the way and out of the sink or dishwasher.
- I use the dishwasher to clean most of the components of the dishwasher after each use. If you’re going to do this, place the lid on the top rack of the dishwasher and the stainless steel inner pot on the lower rack. My dishwasher has a 3rd rack for silverware and I use this for the silicone ring. Alternatively, you can easily wash it in warm soapy water.
- Remove the steam release handle and check for food particles. If there are any, use your brush to remove them.
- Once everything is clean and dry reassemble.
Note: If you are unsure of the components or what the various parts are on your Instant Pot, refer to your manual or directly to Instant Pot for clarification.
Cleaning your Instant Pot is necessary and fortunately it’s an easy process and an essential component to a clean kitchen. Try putting your Instant Pot components in the dishwasher next time!
Ready for a favorite Instant Pot Tip? Did you know that you can put the lid in the side slot to keep it off the counter? This is great for sautéing or serving – try it!
Favorites for the Instant Pot
My 8qt Instant Pot
Mesh Steamer Baskets – great for stock!
Egg Bite Molds – love these!
Replacement Silicone Rings or these color-coded silicone rings if you want to use a different ring for different types of cooking
Want to clean your other small appliances too? Check out this post for how to clean small appliances.
If you’re looking for an in-depth cleaning guide, my brand-new PDF packet, Clean Mama’s Guide to Kitchens – it has checklists, a quick-start guide, DIY cleaning recipes and more. Check it out here.
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