Kitchen

How to Clean Food Processor

Keeping your food processor clean isn't just about appearance -- it's about hygiene and performance. Here's how to do it right, with the supplies you probably already have at home.

What You'll Need

  • Soap-Man Lemon Glow Dish Soap
  • Warm water
  • Soft brush
  • Cloth
  • Small brush for blade attachments

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. 1

    Unplug and disassemble

    Always unplug before cleaning. Remove the bowl, lid, blade, and any attachments.

  2. 2

    Wash bowl and lid by hand

    Wash the bowl, lid, and pusher with warm soapy water. Most are dishwasher safe but hand washing extends their life.

  3. 3

    Carefully wash blades

    Hold blades by the plastic center and wash carefully -- they are extremely sharp. Use a brush to clean food from the blade edges.

  4. 4

    Wipe the base

    Wipe the motor base with a damp cloth and dish soap. Never submerge the base in water.

  5. 5

    Air dry and reassemble

    Let all parts air dry completely before reassembling to prevent rust on metal parts.

Pro Tips

  • TIPWash food processor parts immediately after use -- dried food residue is much harder to remove.
  • TIPStore the blades in a safe spot, blade-down, to protect both the blades and your hands.
  • TIPUse a small brush to clean inside the blade hub where food gets stuck.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • XSubmerging the motor base in water, which destroys the electrical components.
  • XCutting yourself on the sharp blades by handling them carelessly during cleaning.
  • XUsing harsh abrasives that scratch the plastic bowl, making it cloudy.

Frequently Asked Questions

The bowl, lid, and most attachments are dishwasher safe (top rack). Hand washing the blades is safer.