Soap-Man Cleaning Supplies
Kitchen

How to Clean Slow Cooker

Keeping your slow cooker 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
  • Baking soda
  • White vinegar
  • Soft sponge
  • Damp cloth

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. 1

    Unplug and let cool

    Always unplug and let the slow cooker cool to room temperature. Never put a hot crock in cold water -- it will crack.

  2. 2

    Soak the crock

    Fill the ceramic crock with hot soapy water and let soak for 15-30 minutes to loosen stuck-on food.

  3. 3

    Scrub with baking soda

    For stubborn spots, sprinkle baking soda on the wet crock and scrub with a soft sponge.

  4. 4

    Wipe the base

    Wipe the heating base with a damp cloth and a small amount of dish soap. Never submerge the base in water.

  5. 5

    Dry thoroughly

    Dry both the crock and base with a clean towel before reassembling.

Pro Tips

  • TIPUse slow cooker liners for messy recipes -- cleanup is just removing the bag.
  • TIPFor burnt-on food, fill the crock with water and 1/4 cup baking soda, set on low for 1 hour, then scrub.
  • TIPMost slow cooker crocks are dishwasher safe -- check your manual.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • XSubmerging the heating base in water, which destroys the electrical components.
  • XPlunging a hot ceramic crock into cold water, which causes immediate cracking from thermal shock.
  • XUsing metal scrubbers, which scratch the ceramic glaze.

Frequently Asked Questions

Most ceramic crocks are dishwasher safe. Confirm with your specific model manual.