Is the Instant Pot Lid Dishwasher Safe? All You Need to Know

You may know that your Instant Pot's stainless steel inner pot is admirably dishwasher-friendly.

But is the Instant Pot lid dishwasher safe? Will dishwashing damage the sealing ring? Will the float valve still function properly?

I've put together a quick guide to help you keep your favorite cooking pot in top condition.

Jump to:

• Understanding the Dishwasher Safety of Instant Pot Lids
• How to Properly Clean Your Instant Pot Lid in the Dishwasher
• The Benefits of Dishwashing Your Instant Pot Lid
• Alternatives to Dishwashing Your Instant Pot Lid
• Potential Risks and How to Avoid Them When Dishwashing Instant Pot Lids
• Maximizing the Lifespan of Your Instant Pot Lid Through Proper Care
• Dishwashing Instant Pot Lid: Frequently Asked Questions
• Wrapping Up

Understanding the Dishwasher Safety of Instant Pot Lids

Ever tossed your Instant Pot lid in the dishwasher along with the stainless steel cooking pot and then paused, struck by sudden panic?

You're not alone. But it's fine. Our Instant Pot basics guides are here to clear up any confusion.

The good news is that most Instant Pot lids are indeed designed to be dishwasher safe.

This means you can let your machine take over the scrubbing duty after a hearty meal prep session. However, it’s crucial to note that this applies to the lid itself and not necessarily all components.

To get into specifics, while the main body of many Instant Pot lids can bravely face the turbulent waters of your dishwasher just as well as the Instant Pot's inner pot, certain parts like silicone rings might need more tender love and care.

It's recommended by InstantPot’s product manuals to hand wash these softer elements to preserve their integrity for sealing magic during cooking adventures.

How to Properly Clean Your Instant Pot Lid in the Dishwasher

Cleaning your Instant Pot lid in the dishwasher is a breeze, but it's not just about tossing it in and hoping for the best.

First, remove any food debris or residue from both the lid and the inner stainless steel pot. Ensuring your Instant Pot lid is spotless isn't solely for hygiene—it's also a nod to valuing your dishwasher's emotional well-being.

Next up, detach the sealing ring and anti-block shield from the lid. These guys need a bit of tender loving care and should be washed separately by hand to maintain their integrity over time.

This also ensures all debris and oil are removed. You loved your Instant Pot leg of lamb stew, but fatty, meaty meals require a thorough clean-up afterward.

Last but not least, place the lid upside down on the steam rack of your dishwasher. This position allows water jets to do their magic without pooling water on your lid.

Think of it as giving your Instant Pot lid its own little spa day every once in a while.

The Benefits of Dishwashing Your Instant Pot Lid

Think about the last time you hand-washed your Instant Pot lid. It probably wasn't your favorite chore, right?

So, you might find it a pleasant surprise that your dishwasher can effortlessly clean your Instant Pot lid, revolutionizing the way you tackle this particular task. Let’s talk about why.

First off, dishwashers are designed to sanitize dishes at high temperatures most hands can’t handle, and water alone won't achieve. This means your dishwasher gives your Instant Pot lid a thorough scrub-down, making sure it's prepped and pristine for whatever culinary journey you embark on next, free from any leftover smells or stickiness.

Besides cleanliness, let's not forget the sheer convenience. We all want more time to do what we love instead of scrubbing pots and lids by hand.

Using a dishwasher frees up precious minutes (or even hours over weeks!) that could be better spent elsewhere—like perfecting that new Instant Pot Thai chicken curry you’ve been planning.

Alternatives to Dishwashing Your Instant Pot Lid

So, your dishwasher is on the fritz, or maybe you're just not a fan of using it for your Instant Pot lid. No sweat.

Hand washing with warm, soapy water. A soft sponge or damp cloth plus dish soap is old school but never fails if you pay attention to the nooks and crannies.

If you have stubborn gunk, baking soda is your friend. Make a paste with water, apply it to tough spots, let it sit for a few minutes, and then scrub gently.

Vinegar can also work wonders, especially for odors. Dilute white vinegar with water in equal parts, spray onto the lid surface lightly avoiding any electrical components if applicable), and let sit before wiping down.

Potential Risks and How to Avoid Them When Dishwashing Instant Pot Lids

High heat can warp the seal or damage Instant Pot accessories. To avoid this, place the lid on the top rack where it's cooler. Also, remove any detachable parts like the sealing ring and valve—they need a gentler touch.

Last but not least, give everything a good check post-wash. If parts look warped or fit differently, replace them to keep your Instant Pot cooking like new.

Maximizing the Lifespan of Your Instant Pot Lid Through Proper Care

Over time, neglecting the care of your Instant Pot lid might result in its seal wearing down or possibly breaking down mechanically. If it's not cleaned properly, it might also hold onto smells.

Always check the silicone sealing ring for wear and tear. Surprisingly, this often-neglected piece significantly impacts the effectiveness of pressure cooking.

Avoid using abrasive cleaners or pads on the lid, as they can scratch surfaces and damage components like the anti-block shield. Instead, opt for mild detergents and soft sponges to keep everything in top shape without causing harm.

Related: How to Use the Instant Pot for Beginners

Dishwashing Instant Pot Lid: Frequently Asked Questions

Wrapping Up

As it turns out, the Instant Pot lid is just as easy to clean as the stainless steel pot.

It's safe. It's easy. It's everything we love about our Instant Pots.

No fuss, no worries. Today, you learned another wonderful thing about your favorite kitchen appliance!