Most blenders are designed in such a way that they are easy to clean after making smoothies. But after making mayonnaise or peanut butter? That is a totally different ballgame!
Ingredients tend to get stuck under the blades and the gasket, making it difficult to clean them. Also, as blenders have cups made from polycarbonate or Tritan, they get easily discoloured after grinding spices. In fact, garam masala can permanently discolour them. Vinegar, baking soda, soap and every such “hack” bend their knees in front of garam masala stains. But regular clean up can be made easy, provided you have the correct know-how.
So, let us explore the best methods to clean a bullet blender.
Handwashing
The cups of blenders are made from polycarbonate and Tritan and are prone to scratches. So if you are handwashing it, ensure that you use a soft non-abrasive sponge dipped in diluted dishwashing soap. Give attention to the flow breakers in the cup and the part connecting the blade to the coupler. Food ingredients tend to get stuck in this area. If you are unable to reach under the blade using a sponge, consider using a toothbrush. Sometimes, you may have to use a toothpick to clean the area.
Check the instruction manual to see if the gasket can be removed or not. Certain brands like Nutribullet recommend against removing the gasket. If you can remove it, clean the area underneath the gasket thoroughly as it is one of the areas where mold could flourish.
Related reading: Best Smoothie Blenders In India
Running The Blender With Soap
Yet another method to clean blender cups and blades is by running it by adding a drop of dishwashing liquid and filling it to the maximum capacity with water. Run for 20-30 seconds and then rinse it thoroughly with water.
If you have blended mayonnaise, nut butter or any other ingredient with high-fat content, add slightly warm water with soap. Do not use hot water as it could leak and be a hazard.
Related reading: Best Hand Blenders In India
Dishwasher
Blender cups of most brands are dishwasher safe when kept in the top rack. Avoid keeping the blade attachment as the hot water and harsh chemicals can dull the blades. Also, water tends to accumulate in the coupler, which may damage it in the long run.
A disadvantage of dishwashing the cups is that it causes visible scratches on them in just a few washes.
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Removing Cloudiness Of Blender Cups
Within a few months of use, blender cups start getting cloudy due to fruit pigments and limescale deposits. To get rid of it, add a quarter cup of vinegar to the cup and fill it with water to the brim. Close the cup with the resealable lid that comes along and leave it overnight. The next day, rinse it with water.
Vinegar will neutralize any alkaline deposits on the blender cup and restore its shine. Note that this will not get rid of the scratches on the cups.