If you own a Blendtec blender, you know how versatile and powerful these machines are. Blendtec blenders can pulverize even the toughest ingredients into smoothies, soups, dips, batters, and more. However, one common issue Blendtec owners face is cloudiness in the blender jar after repeated use. A buildup of residue on the inside walls of the jar leads to a foggy or opaque appearance, instead of the clear, pristine look you expect from the jar.
While cloudiness in the blender jar may seem like a purely cosmetic issue, it can impact the effectiveness of your blender over time. Residue buildup prevents thorough cleaning and allows bacteria to accumulate. It can also lead to subpar blending performance. But with some effort, you can restore your Blendtec blender jar to its original clear condition.
Blender jar cloudiness occurs due to a gradual buildup of fats, oils, pigments, and other substances that stick to the sides of the jar. Things like smoothie ingredients, milkshake mixes, peanut butter, chocolate, and even soap residue from washing can leave behind a film.
Over time, these residues fuse together and cause the jar plastic to appear foggy. The cloudier the jar gets, the harder it becomes to fully clean and remove all of the built-up gunk.
Cloudiness tends to develop faster if you regularly blend:
But with regular cleaning, you can minimize cloudiness and keep your blender jar crystal clear for optimal mixing and blending.
To get rid of cloudiness and residue in your Blendtec jar, you’ll need to do a deep cleaning. Basic rinsing or soaking won’t cut through built-up deposits. Here are some steps to clean and de-cloud your blender jar:
Add 2-3 tablespoons of dish soap along with hot water to fill the jar. Avoid using abrasive soaps. Choose a mild detergent or a degreasing soap suited for cleaning grease.
Secure the lid and blend the soapy water on high speed for 30 seconds to 1 minute. This will loosen clinging particles.
Use a long, narrow bottle brush to manually scrub the insides of the jar, targeting visible cloudy spots. This mechanical action helps dislodge stuck-on gunk.
Dump out the soapy blender mix and rinse thoroughly. Then repeat the hot soapy water blend and scrub cycle until the jar looks clearer. Going through the process 2-3 times often does the trick.
For stubborn cloudiness that persists after multiple soap cycles, do a bleach soak. Add 1-2 tablespoons of bleach and enough hot water to fill the jar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before rinsing thoroughly.
Finally, do a vinegar rinse. Fill the jar with equal parts hot water and distilled white vinegar. Blend for 30 seconds. This disinfects, deodorizes, and removes any lingering soap or bleach residue. Rinse thoroughly.
Always let the jar air dry completely upside down on a dish rack before reattaching to the motor base. This prevents water spots.
Always wash blender jars by hand. Never put them in the dishwasher, as high heat can warp the plastic over time.
Clean blender blade assemblies separately with hot, soapy water. Carefully wipe and dry any hidden crevices where food debris collects.
Once you get your jar looking pristine again, use these tips to prevent repeat cloudiness:
With proper care and regular deep cleaning as needed, your Blendtec blender jar will maintain its clarity and keep your smoothie blends looking perfect. Don’t hesitate to give your jar a thorough cleaning whenever cloudiness appears. Enjoy crystal clear blending for smoothies, soups, and more!
How do I know if my blender jar is cloudy?
Your blender jar will appear foggy, opaque, or milky instead of being crystal clear when held up to the light. You’ll notice a gradual buildup of cloudiness over many uses.
What is the white stuff on the sides of my blender jar?
The residue you see is usually a combination of fats from foods like nuts, oils, milk proteins, and soap buildup. These all leave behind a whitish film over time.
Can I put my blender jar in the dishwasher?
No, you should always hand wash blender jars with mild dish soap and water. The high heat of dishwashers can cause plastic jars to warp and degrade over time.
