Keeping your Instant Pot Duo clean is essential for maintaining its performance and ensuring safe cooking. Regular cleaning prevents food residue buildup, odors, and potential malfunctions.
This guide provides practical, step-by-step instructions to clean your Instant Pot thoroughly and safely, covering all parts from the lid to the inner pot.
Gather Your Cleaning Supplies
- Soft sponge or cloth
- Dish soap
- White vinegar
- Baking soda (optional)
- Non-abrasive brush or toothbrush
Amazon Product B07CMW3B95
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
Disassemble and Rinse Parts
- Remove the inner pot, sealing ring, and lid from the Instant Pot.
- Take out the sealing ring and any accessories like the steamer basket.
- Rinse all removable parts under warm water to remove loose food debris.
Clean the Inner Pot and Accessories
Wash the inner pot with warm, soapy water using a soft sponge. For stubborn stains or odors, sprinkle baking soda and scrub gently. Rinse thoroughly and dry.
Clean accessories like the steamer basket with warm, soapy water and a brush if needed.
Clean the Lid and Sealing Ring
- Wash the lid with warm, soapy water. Use a brush to clean around the valve and sealing area.
- Remove the sealing ring and wash it separately with warm, soapy water. If it has odors, soak it in a vinegar solution for 15 minutes before rinsing.
- Dry all parts completely before reassembling.
Wipe Down the Main Unit
Use a damp cloth to wipe the exterior and control panel of the Instant Pot. Avoid getting water into the vents or electrical components.
If needed, use a mild vinegar solution to remove any grease or stains, then wipe with a clean, dry cloth.
Products That Help
AOZITA Steamer Basket

A solid, widely-recommended pick for keeping your machine in top shape.
Pros:
Cons:
Best for:
Not ideal for:
Bottom line:
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I clean my Instant Pot?
Clean the removable parts after each use and wipe down the main unit weekly for optimal performance.
Can I use bleach or harsh chemicals to clean my Instant Pot?
No, avoid harsh chemicals. Use mild soap, vinegar, and baking soda to clean your appliance safely.
Why does my sealing ring smell bad?
Odors can develop from food residue or bacteria. Soaking the ring in vinegar or baking soda solution helps eliminate smells.
Is it safe to put the lid and sealing ring in the dishwasher?
Yes, most parts like the lid and sealing ring are dishwasher safe, but check your model’s instructions for specific guidance.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.