How to Clean a Slow Cooker
To clean a slow cooker: unplug it and let it cool, remove the stoneware or removable insert, scrape away leftover food, wash the removable parts according to the manufacturer's instructions, soften stuck-on residue with a soak if needed, and wipe the heating base with a damp cloth. Never immerse the electrical heating base in water.
How to Clean a Slow Cooker Step by Step
- Unplug and cool the slow cooker. Never begin cleaning while the appliance is plugged in or hot.
- Remove the insert and lid. Check the manufacturer's instructions to see whether these parts are dishwasher-safe or should be hand-washed.
- Remove excess food. Scrape away loose food with a non-scratching utensil.
- Wash the removable insert. Use warm water and an appropriate cleaner. If using Powerizer Complete, follow the product label directions.
- Soak stubborn residue. If food is baked onto the insert, allow the removable insert to soak according to its care instructions, then gently loosen residue with a non-scratch sponge or brush.
- Rinse and dry. Rinse thoroughly and dry the insert and lid before reassembling the appliance.
- Wipe the heating base. Use a damp cloth on the exterior and interior surfaces of the base that the manufacturer identifies as wipe-clean. Do not immerse the electrical base.
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Powerizer Complete combines plant-based enzymes with oxygen-powered cleaning ingredients to help loosen stuck-on food and residue on washable slow-cooker components. Always follow the Powerizer label and your appliance manufacturer's care instructions.
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How Do You Remove Baked-On Food From a Slow Cooker?
Start with a warm-water soak in the removable insert. Giving dried food time to soften can reduce the amount of scrubbing needed. Use a non-abrasive tool so you do not scratch the cooking surface, and repeat the soak for stubborn residue.
Can a Slow Cooker Insert Go in the Dishwasher?
It depends on the model and material. Many removable stoneware inserts and lids are dishwasher-safe, but others have different care requirements. Check your slow cooker's manual before putting any component in the dishwasher.
How to Clean the Slow Cooker Heating Base
The heating base contains electrical components and should not be submerged. Once it is unplugged and completely cool, wipe appropriate surfaces with a damp cloth, then dry them. Follow the appliance manufacturer's directions for any spills that reach the heating element area.
How to Keep a Slow Cooker From Smelling
Remove leftovers promptly and clean the lid, rim, removable insert, and other food-contact areas after use. Lingering food residue and grease can contribute to odors. Allow all parts to dry completely before storing the appliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should you clean a slow cooker?
Clean the removable food-contact parts after every use and wipe the base whenever spills or splatters occur.
Can you soak an entire slow cooker?
No. Only soak removable components when their care instructions allow it. Never immerse an electrical heating base in water.
What is the easiest way to clean a Crock-Pot?
Cleaning it soon after use is usually easiest. Remove the insert, clear away leftover food, soak stubborn residue if necessary, wash, rinse, and dry.
Can Powerizer clean a slow cooker insert?
Powerizer Complete is a concentrated multipurpose cleaner with plant-based enzymes. For washable slow-cooker components, follow both the Powerizer label and the appliance manufacturer's cleaning instructions.
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Powerizer Complete is formulated as a concentrated powder for laundry, automatic dishwashers, and multiple washable household surfaces, making it useful beyond slow-cooker cleanup.
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Continue cleaning the kitchen with our guides to cleaning a dishwasher, deep-cleaning a garbage disposal, and cleaning a wooden cutting board.