How to Clean Your Rice Cooker

Keeping your rice cooker clean not only keeps it in great condition but also ensures it continues delivering perfectly cooked rice. Rice cookers vary from basic models to premium models, and they have different features and cleaning needs. However, they have main parts in common, such as the inner pot, lid, steam vent, and water drainage tray. 

If you’ve recently purchased a rice cooker or simply want to ensure you’re providing the ideal cleaning maintenance, we’re here to provide you with this guide! 

1. Ensure your rice cooker is unplugged and cool, then gather a sponge, dish soap, and a clean cloth. 

2. Inner Pot Cleaning 

Remove the inner pot from the rice cooker, wash it with warm, soapy water with a soft sponge in order to avoid the chance of scratching the non-stick surface. Rinse and dry with a soft cloth. 

1. Inner Lid and Steam Vent Cleaning 

There is moisture and food residue that gathers in the lid and steam vent, so it is important to make sure it is free of both! For the steam vent, use a soft brush to gently clean it. Use a soft, clean cloth to wipe the lid. 

1. Exterior Cleaning 

Use a damp, clean, soft cloth to wipe down the exterior of the rice cooker. Avoid using any abrasive material that could potentially damage the rice cooker. 

1. Water Drainage Tray Cleaning 

Regularly emptying the drainage tray and washing it with soapy water helps keep your rice fresh and worry-free. 

1. Removing Unwanted Odors 

A natural solution is your best friend when it comes to combating unwanted odors in your rice cooker! Create a mixture of vinegar or lemon water and fill the inner pot, and run a short steaming cycle. This leaves your rice cooker fresh and in optimal condition to use for your next dish.