How To Clean Vitamix 5200: A DIY Guide

The Vitamix 5200 is one of the most popular high-performance blenders on the market. Its powerful motor and aircraft-grade blades can blend even the toughest ingredients with ease. However, cleaning this machine properly after each use is essential to keep it running in top condition.

Cleaning a Vitamix may seem intimidating at first, but it’s quite simple if you follow some basic steps. In this DIY guide, we’ll provide a step-by-step process on how to clean your Vitamix 5200 blender after use along with some handy tips and tricks.

Why Is Cleaning The Vitamix Important?

Before we dive into the cleaning process, let’s look at why it’s critical to clean your Vitamix thoroughly after each use:

• Prevent Growth Of Mold And Bacteria – Food residue trapped in the blades, container and lid can foster the growth of harmful mold, bacteria and pathogens if left uncleaned.
• Avoid Cross-Contamination – If you blend something like poultry and don’t clean your Vitamix properly afterward, the next smoothie you make could get contaminated with bacteria from the raw meat.
• Keep Your Blender Smelling Fresh – Ingredients like garlic and onions can make your Vitamix smell bad if left to sit after blending. Cleaning removes any lingering odors.
• Maintain Proper Function – Food buildup and dried liquids on the blades can prevent them from moving smoothly. Cleaning keeps everything running right.
• Make Cleaning Easier – It’s much simpler to rinse away fresh ingredients than scrape off dried sticky messes. Don’t let food residue cake on.

Now that you know why it’s important, let’s go through the cleaning process step-by-step.

What You’ll Need

Before getting started, gather the following cleaning supplies:

• Dish soap or mild detergent
• Vitamix cleaning brush
• Sponge, cloth or scrubbing pad
• Running water
• Towel for drying
• Citrus cleaner or sanitizing solution (optional)

The Vitamix brush usually comes included when you purchase a new unit. You can also find replacement brushes on the Vitamix website or Amazon.

Step 1: Rinse With Water Immediately

As soon as you’re done blending, fill the container halfway with warm water and secure the lid. Run the machine on its highest speed for 30 seconds. This will help rinse away any leftover bits of food before they have a chance to dry and stick.

Dump out the soapy water and give the container and lid a quick inspection. If you spot any obvious debris, pick it out by hand.

Step 2: Wash With Soap And Water

Add a few drops of dish soap and enough warm water to fill the container up about 1/3 of the way. Secure the lid.

Run the blender on low speed for 30 seconds. This creates soapy bubbles that break down and remove stuck-on residue.

Remove the container from the motor base. Take off the lid and thoroughly hand wash all surfaces with a dish sponge and warm, soapy water.

Pay special attention to the area around the blades. Use a soft brush or cloth to gently dislodge any material clinging to the blades. Avoid using anything abrasive that could scratch or damage the containers.

Step 3: Rinse Thoroughly

Once washing is complete, carefully rinse away every trace of soap under running water.

Fill the container halfway, replace the lid and run the blender for 30 seconds on its highest speed. Dump out the water.

Check closely to ensure there’s no lingering debris. Repeat the rinsing process if needed.

Step 4: Sanitize (Optional)

For an extra level of disinfection, you can sanitize your Vitamix with a citrus cleaner or sanitizing solution.

To sanitize:

1. Fill container 1/3 with water and add sanitizing liquid as directed on label.
2. Run blender on high for 1 minute.
3. Let sit for 5 minutes with solution in container.
4. Rinse thoroughly with water.

Sanitizing monthly or quarterly is sufficient for most users.

Step 5: Dry Completely

It’s important not to leave any moisture in the container or lid. Use a soft towel to dry all surfaces.

For the lid, open it up and place it upside down on the towel to air dry any water trapped between the lid and center piece.

Allow parts to fully air dry before reassembling the components.

Tips and Tricks

Follow these useful tips for keeping your Vitamix squeaky clean:

• Clean your blender right after use. Don’t let ingredients dry inside.
• Rinse blades under warm running water while spinning gently with your fingers to dislodge debris.
• For tough dried messes, soak the container for 20-30 minutes in warm soapy water before scrubbing.
• Use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to sanitize between the blades.
• Wash the tamper tool and under the blades regularly too.
• Periodically deep clean all parts with vinegar, baking soda or citrus-based cleaner.
• Always refer to the owner’s manual for the best cleaning practices for your model.

Avoid These Mistakes

When cleaning your Vitamix, avoid these common mistakes:

• Leaving it dirty for hours or letting food dry on components.
• Submerging the motor base in water or putting it in the dishwasher.
• Using abrasive scouring pads, which can scratch plastic.
• Not drying properly before reassembling.
• Spraying water directly into the bottom vent below the blades.
• Attempting to sharpen blades yourself; have a professional service dull blades.

Maintaining A Like-New Vitamix

Follow this simple cleaning routine after each and every use to keep your Vitamix performing like new for years to come. Proper cleaning not only keeps the blender hygienic but also prevents wear and tear.

While it may seem involved at first, the process becomes second nature very quickly. Just be sure to avoid any cleaning mistakes that could damage components. With the proper care, your Vitamix will deliver countless creamy smoothies, piping hot soups and other delicious treats.

FAQs:

How often should I fully disassemble and clean my Vitamix?

For regular use, disassembling and deep cleaning all parts every 6-12 months is sufficient. Clean normally after each use.

Can I put Vitamix parts in the dishwasher?

The container, lid and tamper can go on the top rack of the dishwasher. Never put the motor base or any electrical components in water.

What’s the best way to clean under the blades?

Use a small brush and warm soapy water. Avoid spraying water directly into the bottom vent. Gently spin blades to dislodge debris.

My container stained. How do I remove discoloration?

Soak in warm water with lemon juice or vinegar for 30 minutes. Use baking soda and a soft brush to gently scrub stains away. Avoid abrasives.

How should I store my Vitamix when not in use?

Disassemble components and allow to fully air dry. Keep the lid inverted. Store assembled base on your counter or keep the container and lid on a cupboard shelf.

Wrapping Up

Cleaning your Vitamix 5200 thoroughly doesn’t have to be a daunting chore. By following these simple steps after each use, you’ll keep your blender looking and performing like new. Invest a few minutes in regular cleaning and you’ll get years of reliable service from this Vitamix workhorse. Just be diligent to wash, rinse and dry properly after each blending session. Happy blending!