Instant Pot Cleaning Guide: Step-by-Step Tips for a Like-New Pot

This post demonstrates how to clean an Instant Pot using a simple vinegar-and-water solution. Learn how to deep clean the sealing ring, lid, base, and exterior, and find out which parts are dishwasher-safe.

This post shows how to clean an Instant Pot with a simple vinegar and water solution (and even what you can and can't put in the dishwasher). See how to clean the lid, base, and inside easily.

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I write a lot about both cleaning and Instant Pot cooking, and this post brings those topics together. Small appliances like the Instant Pot often get overlooked when we clean the kitchen, but frequent use means they can collect spills, splatters, and odors. I include appliance care in my regular cleaning checklist and give my Instant Pot a thorough cleaning about once a month.

How Do You Clean an Instant Pot?

Cleaning an Instant Pot is straightforward once you know which parts to remove and which to treat carefully. With a little routine maintenance you can keep your cooker functioning well for years. These directions apply to most Instant Pot models; the author uses an Instant Pot Duo 6-quart.

Before

Here are some “before” photos showing typical wear after frequent use. Spills, stuck-on food, and residue usually gather on the lid, sealing ring, and the inner rim of the base. Regular monthly deep cleans help prevent buildup and lingering odors.

gunk in the inner edge of an instant pot.

dirty inner heating coil of an instant pot.

The photos show common issues: splatters, stuck food, and residue. Focus on the lid, sealing ring, and inner rim when you clean — those areas usually need the most attention.

Step 1: Remove the Steam Valve and Silicone Ring from the Lid

Start by removing parts that come off easily. The pressure release valve pulls straight off — it’s held by a simple magnetic connection — and can be rinsed by hand or placed in the dishwasher utensil basket. You may also see suggestions to remove the anti-block shield beneath the valve; check it for residue and remove only if it needs a deeper clean.

taking rubber sealing ring out of the lid of an instant pot.

Pull the silicone sealing ring out of the lid — it comes out with a little force. Over time the ring can discolor and retain odors; many people keep separate rings for savory and sweet cooking to avoid flavor transfer. If odors persist, replacing the ring is an option, but often a deep clean will restore it.

Step 2: Clean Some Lid Elements in the Dishwasher

The sealing ring, float valve, and small removable pieces can go on the top rack of the dishwasher. If the lid has grease or stuck food, give it a quick hand scrub with soapy water first. If you prefer to hand wash, soak these parts in warm, soapy water and scrub with a brush or sponge, then air dry before reassembling.

Step 3: Remove and Clean the Condensation Collector

taking back condensation collector off of an instant pot.

Pop the condensation collector off the back of the Instant Pot and place it on the top rack of the dishwasher or wash it by hand. This small cup can collect moisture, grease, and food particles and is often dirtier than people expect, so don’t skip it.

Step 4: Remove Loose Debris from the Base

Turn the base over and dump any loose burnt food particles into the trash. Do this before you begin detailed cleaning; it clears out most larger bits lodged in the rim or on the heater element area. Note: the stainless steel inner pot should be cleaned after each use — it’s dishwasher-safe and easy to maintain.

dumping instant pot debris into the trash.

Removing loose debris makes the next cleaning steps faster and more effective.

Step 5: Clean the Nooks, Crannies, and Surfaces of the Base

The narrow rim around the inside edge of the base can trap food. A good trick is to wet a paper towel with a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water, then use a fork to push the towel into the lip and scrub gently back and forth. The surface inside that rim responds well to this method and usually releases stuck-on bits.

cleaning edge of an instant pot with a fork and a paper towel.

After loosening trapped food, wipe the interior and exterior surfaces with the same vinegar-and-water mix in circular motions. Some discoloration or light scorching on the heating element area is normal and won’t affect performance. If needed, scrub gently with the vinegar solution and allow everything to air dry before storing or using.

wiping out inside heating coil of an instant pot

Step 6: Clean the Exterior

wiping outside of an instant pot with a paper towel.

Wipe the stainless-steel exterior with a damp cloth and the vinegar-and-water solution, working in circular motions to avoid streaks. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scouring pads that could scratch the finish. A gentle wipe restores the look of the cooker without risking damage.

Step 7: Reassemble

When the lid, sealing ring, float valve, and condensation collector are dry, reattach them to the Instant Pot. Replace the sealing ring and the steam release valve, snap the condensation collector back into place, and your cooker is ready for regular use.

After

A thorough clean makes a noticeable difference. After this process the Instant Pot looks and smells fresher and is ready for another month of frequent cooking.

Thanks for reading — I hope this guide to cleaning an Instant Pot is useful. A quick routine deep clean keeps your appliance working well and prevents lingering odors.