The best way to clean a blender that doesn’t come apart is to fill it with hot water and dish soap, then run it on high speed for a few seconds, then rinse and dry it. This method will help you remove any food residue, stains, and odors from your blender without having to disassemble it. In this article, we will explain why this method works, what are the benefits of cleaning your blender regularly, and how to avoid common mistakes that can damage your blender.
Why does this method work?
Blenders are designed to blend ingredients at high speed, creating a powerful vortex that pulls everything towards the blades. This means that when you fill your blender with hot water and dish soap, the same vortex will create a foamy mixture that will reach every corner of your blender jar, including the lid, the handle, and the base. The hot water will loosen any stuck-on food particles, while the dish soap will dissolve any grease, oil, or sugar. By running your blender on high speed for a few seconds, you will essentially create a self-cleaning cycle that will scrub your blender from the inside.
What are the benefits of cleaning your blender regularly?
Cleaning your blender regularly is not only hygienic, but also beneficial for your blender’s performance and longevity. Here are some of the benefits of keeping your blender clean:
It prevents bacteria and mold growth. If you leave your blender dirty, especially with wet or sticky ingredients, you risk creating a breeding ground for harmful microorganisms that can cause food poisoning, spoilage, or bad smells. By cleaning your blender after every use, you will prevent these problems and keep your blender safe and sanitary.
It preserves the flavor and quality of your blends. If you don’t clean your blender properly, you may end up with unwanted flavors or colors in your next blend. For example, if you blend a smoothie with berries and then a soup with garlic, you may end up with a purple soup that tastes like garlic and berries. By cleaning your blender thoroughly, you will ensure that your blends taste fresh and delicious every time.
It protects the blades and motor. If you leave your blender dirty, you may cause damage to the blades or the motor over time. For example, if you leave food residue on the blades, it may harden and dull them, reducing their efficiency and sharpness. If you leave liquid in the blender jar, it may leak into the base and short-circuit the motor, causing it to overheat or malfunction. By cleaning your blender regularly, you will prevent these issues and extend the life of your blender.
How to avoid common mistakes that can damage your blender?
While cleaning your blender with hot water and dish soap is a simple and effective method, there are some things you should avoid doing that can harm your blender or yourself. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when cleaning your blender:
Do not use boiling water. While hot water is good for loosening food residue, boiling water is too hot and can cause your blender jar to crack or warp, especially if it is made of plastic or glass. Use warm or hot water instead, but not boiling.
Do not use abrasive cleaners or tools. While dish soap is gentle and safe for your blender, some other cleaners or tools may be too harsh and scratch or damage your blender jar or blades. Avoid using bleach, ammonia, vinegar, baking soda, or other acidic or alkaline cleaners, as they may corrode your blender’s material. Also, avoid using steel wool, scouring pads, brushes, or knives, as they may scratch or dent your blender’s surface. Use a soft sponge, cloth, or paper towel instead.
Do not submerge the base or the cord. While the blender jar is safe to wash with water and soap, the base and the cord are not. They contain electrical components that can be damaged by water or moisture. If you submerge the base or the cord, you may cause a fire, an electric shock, or a malfunction. To clean the base or the cord, use a damp cloth or a dry brush to wipe off any dust or dirt, and make sure they are completely dry before plugging them in.
Do not put the blender jar in the dishwasher. While some blender jars are dishwasher-safe, some are not. Check the manufacturer’s instructions before putting your blender jar in the dishwasher, as some materials may not withstand the high temperature or pressure of the dishwasher. Even if your blender jar is dishwasher-safe, it may be better to hand-wash it, as the dishwasher may not clean it as thoroughly as the self-cleaning method.
Cleaning a blender that doesn’t come apart is easy and quick, as long as you follow the right steps and avoid the common mistakes. By filling your blender with hot water and dish soap, then running it on high speed for a few seconds, then rinsing and drying it, you will be able to remove any food residue, stains, and odors from your blender without having to disassemble it. This will not only keep your blender clean and hygienic, but also improve its performance and durability. Remember to clean your blender after every use, and enjoy your smoothies, soups, sauces, and more with your blender.
