How to Clean an Instant Pot: Every Part, Step by Step

The Instant Pot is one of the most versatile kitchen appliances — but it also has more components than most, each requiring its own cleaning approach. The sealing ring in particular is notorious for absorbing strong food odors. Here's how to clean every part properly.

Instant Pot Parts That Need Regular Cleaning

• Inner pot (stainless steel)
• Sealing ring (silicone gasket)
• Lid (including the anti-block shield)
• Steam release valve
• Float valve
• Condensation collector
• Exterior housing

What You'll Need

• Dish soap
• Non-scratch scrub sponge
• Microfiber cloths
• Baking soda
• White vinegar
• Old toothbrush or small brush
• Long flexible brush (for the steam release valve)

Step 1: Clean the Inner Pot

The stainless steel inner pot is the easiest part to clean.

1. Wash with warm soapy water and a non-scratch sponge after every use.
2. For stuck-on food, fill with warm water and soak for 15-20 minutes before scrubbing.
3. For rainbow discoloration (common on stainless steel), wipe with a cloth dampened with white vinegar, then wash normally.
4. The inner pot is dishwasher-safe — place on the bottom rack.

Step 2: Clean the Sealing Ring

The silicone sealing ring is the most odor-prone part of the Instant Pot.

1. Remove the ring from the lid after every use.
2. Wash with warm soapy water and rinse thoroughly.
3. For odor removal: soak in a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water for 30 minutes, or place in the dishwasher (top rack).
4. For persistent odors: place the clean ring in the Instant Pot with 2 cups of water and 1 cup of white vinegar. Run a steam cycle for 2 minutes. This effectively deodorizes the ring.
5. Air dry completely before replacing — a damp ring can develop mold.

Pro tip: Keep two sealing rings — one for savory dishes and one for sweet/neutral dishes. This prevents flavor transfer.

Step 3: Clean the Lid

1. Remove the anti-block shield (the small metal cover on the inside of the lid) by pushing it sideways — it snaps off.
2. Wash the shield, lid interior, and lid exterior with warm soapy water.
3. Use an old toothbrush to scrub around the steam release valve socket and any crevices.
4. Rinse thoroughly and dry.

Step 4: Clean the Steam Release Valve

1. Pull the steam release valve straight up to remove it.
2. Rinse under warm running water.
3. Use a flexible brush or toothpick to clear any food particles from the valve opening.
4. Shake to ensure it moves freely, then replace.

Step 5: Clean the Float Valve

The float valve (the small pin that pops up during pressure cooking) can get sticky with food residue.

1. Wipe around the float valve with a damp cloth.
2. If sticky, remove (it pulls out from the underside of the lid) and rinse under warm water.
3. Make sure it moves freely up and down before replacing.

Step 6: Clean the Condensation Collector

1. Remove the small plastic cup from the back of the Instant Pot.
2. Empty and wash with warm soapy water.
3. Dry and replace.

Step 7: Clean the Exterior

1. Unplug the Instant Pot.
2. Wipe the exterior with a damp microfiber cloth.
3. For the heating element at the bottom of the housing, wipe with a barely damp cloth — never let water drip into the electrical components.
4. Wipe the control panel with a dry or barely damp cloth.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get the smell out of my Instant Pot sealing ring?

Soak in white vinegar for 30 minutes, or run a steam cycle with water and vinegar inside the pot. For very persistent odors, leave the ring in direct sunlight for a few hours — UV light helps neutralize odors in silicone.

Can I put Instant Pot parts in the dishwasher?

The inner pot, sealing ring (top rack), lid, anti-block shield, and steam release valve are all dishwasher-safe. The exterior housing is never dishwasher-safe.

How often should I clean the Instant Pot sealing ring?

After every use. Remove it from the lid, wash, and allow to dry completely before storing.

Why does my Instant Pot smell like the last thing I cooked?

The silicone sealing ring absorbs food odors. Clean it with vinegar after every use, and consider keeping separate rings for savory and sweet cooking.