Blenders are your go-to kitchen pal if preparations, such as smoothies, soups, and sauces, are an integral part of your routine diet. They come to your rescue and save you precious time by grinding and blending different ingredients, helping you create culinary wonders. However, what most people who own a blender dread is the cleaning process. Caring for and maintaining your blender does not have to be a daunting task, especially if you’re familiar with the tips below. With that said, let’s delve deeper into the essential cleaning tips that will help you with the long-term care and cleaning of your blender.
Table of Contents
Routine CleaningÂ
A clean blender is non-negotiable if you want your dishes to taste fresh and unspoiled. Follow these tips to ensure routine cleaning of your blender:Â
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UnplugÂ
Whether you perform regular cleaning, deep clean your blender, or handle the blade, always unplug it to avoid any accidents or injuries.Â
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Rinsing
As you blend away the ingredients for a meal and empty your blender, make it a point to immediately rinse it by filling the pitcher with warm water and a few drops of dish soap. Now, give this mixture a quick blend. By following this method, you can prevent the food residue from accumulating on the blades or the container.Â
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DisassemblingÂ
When giving your blender a thorough clean once a week, disassemble all its parts, including the blades, gasket, and other removable components. Once disassembled, wash each component thoroughly. However, do refer to the manual to determine parts that are safe to be washed using water and follow the instructions. As a thumb rule, it is best to wash the disassembled parts with hands rather than using a dishwasher. You can use warm soapy water to remove stubborn residue. If needed, use a soft-bristled brush to scrub off the dirt.Â
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Blade and GasketsÂ
When cleaning the blades, you must be extra cautious, as the sharp blades may cause injuries otherwise. Further, gaskets are the most delicate component of a blender. Therefore, every time you remove the gasket from the blender, inspect it to check for signs of wear and tear and get it replaced if you notice any damage.
Deep CleaningÂ
Deep cleaning your blender every once in a while can help with its upkeep and performance. Therefore, cover the extra mile by following these tips:
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Monthly Deep CleanÂ
As you use your blender continually for a month, take time to disassemble and give your blender a deep clean, this time by paying special attention to areas that are hard to reach.Â
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Soak in Vinegar
You can target stubborn stains or deposits by soaking your blender overnight or for several hours in a solution of water and white vinegar mixed in equal parts. This helps break down the grime and mineral deposits that may not be as easy to remove during regular cleaning.Â
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Clean the Base
The base of the blender is just as prone to gradually accumulating deposits as it gets exposed to dust. Therefore, give the base of the blender a clean once every month by wiping it with a damp cloth. However, avoid using abrasive cleaners or immersing the base in water. It is also recommended to limit the exposure of the base to moisture.Â
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DeodorizeÂ
When the components of your blender, including the blades and the hard-to-reach areas of the pitcher accumulate food particles that might be missed during regular cleaning, they may cause your blender to develop a peculiar smell. Use a mixture of water and baking soda to get rid of the lingering smell and rinse your blender.
Additional Maintainance Tips
Regular cleaning after each use and deep cleaning monthly can help you keep your blender hygienic. However, when maintained properly, you can also ensure that your blender lasts several years. The best practices to add to your blender’s longevity are to avoid overfilling the container and cooling down hot liquids before you open the lid of your blender. Further, store your blender in a place that is free of dust, debris, or moisture. Besides taking these steps, you should also get your blender regularly inspected to identify any worn-out parts and get them replaced on priority.
High-quality blenders manufactured by reputed brands are powerful kitchen appliances that are built to last. However, proper maintenance, cleaning, and handling are extremely crucial to ensure your blender performs well and requires minimal repairs unless its parts are worn out. Cleaning your blender regularly is also essential to ensure you’re consuming healthy, hygienic foods. When handled with care and kept clean, your blender will continue to serve you many delicious meals and beverages to come.