Keeping your Instant Pot Duo clean is essential for safe, efficient cooking and to prolong its lifespan. Regular cleaning prevents buildup of food residues and ensures your appliance functions properly.
Get kitchen gear delivered free — and shop member deals
- Fast, free delivery on millions of items
- Access to Prime Big Deal Days deals on October 6–7
- Prime Video, Amazon Music and more included
This guide provides practical, step-by-step instructions to clean your Instant Pot Duo safely, along with troubleshooting tips for common issues.
Gather Your Supplies
- Soft cloth or sponge
- Dish soap
- White vinegar or lemon juice
- Non-abrasive brush or toothbrush
- Water
Remove and Clean the Inner Pot
- Unplug the Instant Pot and remove the inner pot.
- Wash the inner pot with warm, soapy water using a soft sponge.
- If there are stubborn stains, soak in a mixture of water and vinegar or lemon juice for 15 minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly and dry completely before reinserting.
Clean the Lid and Sealing Ring
- Remove the lid and take out the sealing ring.
- Wash the lid with warm soapy water, paying attention to the steam release valve and float valve.
- Clean the sealing ring with a non-abrasive brush or cloth; replace if damaged or odor persists.
- Dry all parts thoroughly before reassembling.
Clean the Exterior and Accessories
- Wipe the exterior with a damp cloth; avoid abrasive cleaners.
- Clean accessories like the steamer basket, if used, with warm soapy water.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- If your Instant Pot isn’t sealing properly, check the sealing ring for damage or debris.
- For persistent odors, soak the sealing ring in vinegar or replace it if necessary.
- Ensure all parts are dry before reassembling to prevent malfunction.
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 inner pot and accessories after each use to prevent buildup and odors.
Can I use abrasive cleaners on my Instant Pot?
No, use soft cloths and non-abrasive cleaners to avoid damaging the surface.
What should I do if my sealing ring smells?
Soak it in vinegar or baking soda solution, or replace if odor persists or it is damaged.
Is it safe to put the lid in the dishwasher?
Yes, most parts including the lid and sealing ring are dishwasher safe, but check your model’s instructions.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
Fall Picks
fall essentials
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
![Dove Mangiare A Milano: Le Nuove Aperture [In Aggiornamento]](https://ashgrind.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/dove-mangiare-a-milano-le-nuove-aperture-in-aggiornamento-featured-260x140.jpg)
