An electric rice cooker is a must-have appliance in every household. It is easy to use and convenient, but it can get dirty over time, especially if it is not cleaned properly. This can affect the quality of the rice cooker and the taste of the cooked rice.
Here are some quick tips to help you clean your rice cooker in just a few minutes:
Cleaning the Outside of the Rice Cooker
– Use a clean cloth to wipe down the exterior of the rice cooker to remove any dust or debris. If there are stubborn stains, dampen the cloth and wipe again, then dry the surface with another cloth.
– For more thorough cleaning, use a soft sponge or cloth to gently scrub the inner pot under running water. Be gentle to avoid damaging the coating. If the pot still has an odor after cleaning, fill it with water and bring it to a boil for about 30 minutes. Then, discard the water and wipe the pot clean with a dry cloth.
It is important to note that many people only clean the outer surface and the inner pot of their rice cookers. However, there are a few other areas that can get just as dirty and should not be overlooked.
Cleaning the Inside of the Rice Cooker
First, clean the heating plate
Over time, the heating plate of your rice cooker can accumulate a dark layer of grime. If left unattended, this grime will thicken and harden, reducing the plate’s heat conduction abilities, resulting in slower cooking times and higher electricity consumption. To prevent this, regularly clean the heating plate using the following method:
Prepare a large bowl and pour in an appropriate amount of white vinegar. Soak a paper towel in the vinegar and place it on the heating plate for about 5 minutes. Remove the paper towel and apply a generous amount of toothpaste to the heating plate. Use a toothbrush to scrub away the dirt. Once you’re done, use a clean paper towel to wipe away the toothpaste residue, and then use a damp cloth to give it a final wipe down.
The combination of vinegar, which softens and loosens dirt, and toothpaste, which has mild abrasive properties, works effectively to remove stubborn grime. Additionally, the toothbrush provides the necessary friction without damaging the surface, and its small size makes it easy to maneuver within the rice cooker, ensuring a thorough clean.
Second, clean the area outside the heating plate
Fill a spray bottle with white vinegar and spritz it onto the area outside the heating plate. Apply toothpaste to a toothbrush and carefully scrub this area. Finally, use a damp, clean cloth to wipe away any remaining toothpaste and vinegar residue.
The third area that requires cleaning is the rice cooker lid
The lid of your rice cooker may appear clean, but it can harbor bacteria, impurities, and dust. To clean it, disassemble the lid and wash its components with water mixed with salt and baking soda, which will disinfect and remove dirt. Pay special attention to the steam vent, as its small crevices provide an ideal environment for bacterial growth if left uncleaned. After rinsing with water, dry the components with a soft cloth and reassemble the lid.
According to Khoevadep