Rice cookers are invaluable kitchen tools for cooking fluffy, delicious rice with little effort. However, like any frequently used appliance, rice cookers can get dirty over time. Stuck-on rice, water deposits, and grease can build up in the inner pot, on the heating element, and around the lid. To keep your rice cooker functioning optimally and your rice tasting great, it’s important to clean it regularly.
Follow this simple guide to learn how to clean your rice cooker properly. With just a few inexpensive supplies and a little time, you’ll be able to remove dirt, bacteria, and odors from your rice cooker.
The removable cooking pot or bowl is the first part you should wash. Lift out the inner pot and wash it with dish soap and warm water using a sponge or dish brush. Scrub away any stuck-on rice or residue. Rinse thoroughly.
With the inner pot removed, you’ll be able to access the heating element more easily. Wipe it down with a soapy cloth to remove dust, grease, and other grime that has accumulated. Take care not to scrub too hard. Rinse with a clean wet cloth.
Lift off the lid and clean with soapy water. Use a bottle brush or cloth to scrub out the vent and rubber gasket. Rinse and dry completely.
Wipe down the outside of the rice cooker base with a soapy cloth. Pay special attention to the buttons and digital display, as these areas tend to collect dirt and oils from fingers. Rinse surfaces clean and wipe dry with a towel.
For a deeper clean, create a DIY rice cooker cleaning solution. Combine 1 cup water, 1 tablespoon baking soda, and 1 tablespoon white vinegar in the inner pot. Place the pot back into the rice cooker, close the lid, and turn it on for several minutes to allow the solution to bubble and loosen debris. Turn off the rice cooker, remove the pot, and scrub away any deposits. Rinse thoroughly.
It’s important that no water is left standing in any part of the rice cooker. Thoroughly dry the removable pot, lid, gasket, and heating element with a clean lint-free towel. Allow all surfaces to air dry as well before reassembling.
Even with regular cleaning, smells can linger in your rice cooker over time. Place a slice of lemon or orange inside the dry inner pot and leave it closed for a few hours. The citrus will help absorb any odors.
Once everything is dry, wipe down the exterior of your rice cooker with a soft cloth and appliance polish or silicone lubricant. This leaves surfaces shiny and helps prevent minerals in water from leaving hard water deposits next time you steam rice.
Get into the habit of washing the removable pot and lid after each use. It takes just a minute and prevents rice residue from hardening into tough, burnt-on clumps. If rice does stick after cooking, fill the pot with hot, soapy water to soak before scrubbing clean.
Be diligent about keeping your rice cooker clean, and you’ll be rewarded with better-tasting rice and a more efficiently functioning appliance. Your rice cooker should last for years with proper care and regular cleaning.
How often should I clean my rice cooker thoroughly?
You should do a thorough cleaning of the inner pot, lid, and heating element at least once a month. Clean it more frequently if you use your rice cooker several times a week.
Can I put the inner pot in the dishwasher?
The removable inner pot and lid are usually dishwasher safe. However, hand washing is recommended to preserve the non-stick coating and prevent detergent buildup.
What should I use to clean a stainless steel rice cooker?
For stainless steel rice cookers, use a non-abrasive cleanser made specifically for stainless steel. Avoid steel wool or harsh scrubbers. Dish soap and warm water is fine for routine cleaning.
Keeping your rice cooker clean takes just a little effort but makes a big difference in your appliance’s performance and the taste of your rice. By regularly washing each part with mild dish soap and occasionally deep cleaning with baking soda and vinegar, you can keep your rice cooker fresh and odor-free. Be diligent about drying all surfaces thoroughly before putting your rice cooker back together. With proper care, your rice cooker can continue cooking fluffy, delicious rice for many years to come.
