Understanding how to clean your blender is crucial whether you own one or are considering a purchase. Keeping it hygienic and in good condition can save time and effort.
Many high-quality blenders come with dishwasher-safe components, making cleanup easier. However, it's vital to know the proper cleaning techniques for your kitchen appliance.
This guide covers essential methods to clean your blender, allowing you to whip up tasty soups, smoothies, and more while simplifying your kitchen tasks.
Cleaning Your Blender
Before you start, take apart your blender if possible. If you have dishwasher-safe parts, consider that they can occupy significant space, especially if you use your blender daily. Using the dishwasher at high temperatures (over 176ºF/80ºC) may damage the jug, leading to a cloudy finish.
Another reason to avoid the dishwasher for some parts is that if the blades are dishwasher-safe, remove them right after the cycle ends. Otherwise, steam may dull or corrode the metal.
There's a quick method to clean your blender without disassembling it while it's still messy with ingredients. This technique works on any blender and is detailed below, along with instructions for deep cleaning and tackling stained or odorous jars.
Self-Cleaning Your Blender
The self-cleaning method is the easiest way to clean your blender, and it's adaptable for portable blenders, too.
Simply add a couple of cups of warm (not boiling) water with a splash of dish soap to the jug. Secure the lid and turn on the blender. Use the pulse setting a few times, or just blend on high until the debris is gone.
The swirling action of the soapy water will reach all those hard-to-reach spots around the blades.
After blending, empty the jug, rinse it under running water, and leave it to air dry or use a lint-free cloth for a spotless finish.
Cleaning an Immersion Blender
Immersion blenders can typically be separated, allowing for the blade to be cleaned in the sink or dishwasher, while the body usually just needs a quick wipe. For a thorough clean, you can dip the blade into warm soapy water and turn it on, rinsing afterward.
If there's stubborn debris, detach the blade and let it soak in warm, soapy water before trying the cleaning method again.
Deep Cleaning Your Blender
It's advisable to deep clean your blender at least twice a year, depending on usage.
The self-cleaning method is great for daily maintenance, but a comprehensive clean is necessary periodically. Moisture can accumulate in joints, especially around the blade and lid seal, promoting bacteria growth.
Most blenders have removable cutter blades that make this process easier. Handle the blade unit with care. Refer to your instruction manual to check if any parts are dishwasher-safe and at which temperatures. If not, wash each component in warm, soapy water, soaking stubborn areas as needed.
Avoid abrasive pads or granular cleaners, as these can scratch plastic surfaces.
For the motor body, clean it with a damp, soapy cloth, ensuring it's unplugged first. For oily residues, use a degreaser like Elbow Grease, applying it to a cloth rather than directly on the unit to avoid moisture seeping into the electronics.
Cleaning a Blender with Hard Water
If you notice your jug isn't as clean as desired, hard water may be to blame. Blender jugs can accumulate limescale like your shower screens, leading to a film even after cleaning.
To tackle this, add a coarsely chopped lemon, rind included, to the self-cleaning mix with the detergent. Blend, then rinse with plain water and let dry. The acidity will help break down limescale, keeping your blender sparkling. This step can be done once or twice a month, depending on usage and water hardness.
Removing Stains from Your Blender
Foods like tomatoes, spices, and beets can stain blenders, particularly those with plastic jugs. Oil residue can also cause cloudiness.
First, try the lemon method. If stains persist, you'll need to apply some elbow grease. A blender jug can also be cleaned with baking soda.
Unplug the base and take off the jug, then mix a paste of baking soda and water in equal parts. Use a long-handled brush or toothbrush to cover the inside of the jug with the paste and let it sit for about an hour (don't let it dry). Rinse afterward, then pour a couple of cups of warm water and add a cup of white vinegar, blending for about 30 seconds to remove any remaining residues and achieve a like-new jug.
Cleaning a Smelly Blender
Have you ever opened a clean blender only to be greeted by an unpleasant smell? This can happen if the blender is stored with the lid on, especially when damp. Leaving the lid off or slightly open when not in use can prevent stale air from building up.
Strong-smelling foods, like garlic or onion, can also cause odors, even with the lid off.
To eliminate smells, use baking soda. Fill the blender jug with warm water almost to the top, add a cup of baking soda, and soak overnight with the lid off before washing as usual. A splash of lemon juice in the soak will freshen it up.
Is It Safe to Wash a Blender?
You can safely wash several blender components, but never submerge the base housing the motor in water or place it in a dishwasher.
Cleanable parts include the jar, lid, gasket seal, and blades. Wipe down the base with a damp cloth.
If the blades aren't detachable, you'll need to clean the blender jar with them in place. Be cautious around the sharp edges.
Always consult the manufacturer's guidelines to determine which parts are dishwasher-safe, but hand washing is often better to avoid etching the jar and to keep blades sharp.
Cleaning Frequency for Your Blender
To maintain good kitchen hygiene, you should clean your blender thoroughly after every use. A simple rinse won't eliminate food residues where bacteria can thrive.
Although you can quickly clean it by blending warm water and soap, deep cleaning involves addressing the jar, lid, blades, gasket, and base.
The gasket is a common breeding ground for germs, so include it in your cleaning routine.
Check your blender's manual or search online for guidance on removable parts and their cleaning options.
