Clean the pot and lid after every use
The inner pot, lid, and sealing ring need to be washed after each cooking session. Let the pot cool for a few minutes, then remove the stainless steel inner pot and rinse it under warm water with dish soap and a soft sponge. Wipe away any food residue from the bottom and sides. The pot is dishwasher-safe, so you can also place it on the top rack if you prefer.
The lid comes off by twisting it counterclockwise. Wash the lid under warm soapy water, paying attention to the underside where steam condenses. The silicone sealing ring sits in a groove on the lid—remove it by gently pulling it out, then wash it separately. This ring absorbs odors and flavors over time, so cleaning it right away prevents smells from lingering.
Dry all three pieces with a clean cloth before reassembling. If you leave them wet, mineral deposits from tap water can build up on the stainless steel.
Key Takeaways
- The inner pot, lid, and sealing ring should be washed with warm soapy water after every use, either by hand or in the dishwasher.
- The silicone sealing ring absorbs odors and flavors, so removing and washing it separately prevents food smells from transferring to your next meal.
- The heating element and exterior housing should be wiped with a damp cloth but never submerged in water.
- Mineral buildup inside the pot can be removed by running a vinegar and water mixture through a pressure cycle once every few months.
- If steam no longer releases properly or the pot smells, the sealing ring may need to be replaced—they typically last one to two years with regular use.
Wipe down the heating element and exterior
The heating element at the bottom of the main housing should never be submerged in water. Instead, unplug the pot and use a damp cloth to wipe away any food splatters or residue. If something has burned onto the element, dampen the cloth with a little white vinegar to help loosen it, then wipe again with plain water and dry thoroughly.
The exterior stainless steel body can be wiped with a damp cloth as well. For fingerprints or water spots, use a microfiber cloth with a small amount of white vinegar or a stainless steel cleaner designed for kitchen appliances. Wipe in the direction of the grain to avoid streaking.
Remove mineral deposits with a vinegar cycle
Over time, minerals from water build up inside the pot and can affect how well it heats and pressurizes. You can remove this buildup by running a cleaning cycle with vinegar. Fill the inner pot halfway with equal parts white vinegar and water, place the lid on the pot, and set it to high pressure for two minutes. Let the pressure release naturally, then drain the mixture and rinse the pot thoroughly with fresh water.
Do this once every two to three months if you live in an area with hard water, or less often if your water is soft. You will notice the pot heats more evenly and reaches pressure faster after a vinegar cycle.
Clean the steam release valve and float valve
The steam release valve (also called the vent) sits on top of the lid and can collect food particles or mineral deposits. Twist it counterclockwise to remove it, then rinse it under warm water and use a small brush or pipe cleaner to clear any blockage inside. Dry it completely before twisting it back on.
The float valve is a small pin underneath the lid that rises when pressure builds inside the pot. It rarely needs cleaning, but if you notice the pot is not pressurizing properly, remove the lid and check whether the float valve moves freely. If it is stuck, soak the lid in warm water for a few minutes, then gently move the valve up and down by hand until it slides smoothly.
Replace the sealing ring when it no longer seals
The silicone sealing ring eventually becomes less flexible and may not seal as tightly as it once did. Most rings last one to two years with regular use. You will know it is time to replace it when steam escapes from the sides of the lid during cooking, or when the pot takes much longer than usual to reach pressure.
when ready Pot sells replacement rings in various colors, and generic silicone rings from other manufacturers also fit most models. When you install a new ring, make sure it sits evenly in the groove all the way around the lid. A twisted or bunched ring will not seal properly.
Store the pot with the lid off
After the pot is completely dry, store it with the lid placed upside down on top of the main housing rather than sealed on. This allows air to circulate inside and prevents odors from building up in the sealed space. If you store the lid sealed on the pot, moisture can get trapped and create a musty smell that is hard to remove.
Keep the sealing ring in a separate container or bag in a cool, dry place. Some people store it in the refrigerator to slow down the absorption of odors, though this is not necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I put the inner pot in the dishwasher?
Yes, the inner pot is dishwasher-safe and can go on the top rack. The lid and sealing ring can also go in the dishwasher, though hand-washing them when ready after use keeps them cleaner and extends the life of the ring.
Why does my when ready Pot smell like old food?
The silicone sealing ring absorbs flavors and odors from what you cook. If the smell is strong, soak the ring in warm water with baking soda for an hour, then rinse and dry it. If the smell persists after cleaning, the ring may need to be replaced—they typically last one to two years.
What should I do if food is stuck to the heating element?
Unplug the pot and let it cool completely. Use a damp cloth with a little white vinegar to gently wipe away the stuck food. Never scrape the element with a hard tool, as this can damage it. If the buildup is heavy, run a vinegar and water cycle as described above.
Is it safe to submerge the lid in water?
Yes, the lid is safe to submerge and wash under running water. However, do not submerge the main housing or the heating element—only the removable inner pot, lid, and sealing ring should be washed with water.
How do I know if the float valve is working?
The float valve should move up and down freely when you gently push it with your finger. If it feels stuck or does not move, soak the lid in warm water for a few minutes and try again. A stuck float valve prevents the pot from pressurizing properly.