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In the process of maintaining your rice cooker, users might overlook small parts that impact rice quality and overall efficiency. Below are three spots in the electric rice cooker requiring frequent cleaning for health and safety. Stay tuned!
Regularly clean these three spots inside your electric rice cooker.
1. Drainage Valve
The drainage valve is commonly placed on the lid of the electric rice cooker, and it can be detachable. This valve allows steam to escape, regulating the pressure inside the cooker for a safe cooking process.
The drainage valve is situated on the lid of the electric rice cooker
During use, the drainage valve comes into direct contact with steam, residues from rice, porridge, etc. Failure to clean it regularly may lead to clogging, creating an ideal environment for bacterial growth. This component is prone to dirt and needs frequent cleaning to prevent cross-contamination with food inside.
The drainage valve is a part that requires regular cleaning
Steps to Clean the Drainage Valve:
- First, disconnect the power supply of the rice cooker and ensure it is completely cool before cleaning.
- Remove the drainage valve for easy cleaning. Some rice cookers have fixed valves, allowing you to clean directly on the valve without removing it.
- Use clean water to wash away all dirt inside the drainage valve. If the valve is excessively dirty or has mold formation, use dishwashing soap mixed with warm water for a more thorough cleaning. Utilize a dishwashing sponge or soft brush to scrub away any stains, residue, or mold formed on the valve.
- After completing the cleaning process, reinstall the drainage valve into its correct position.
2. Inner Lid of the Electric Rice Cooker
The inner lid, also known as the secondary lid, is secured by a rubber knob in the middle, with a rubber gasket around it for sealing in some models. The secondary lid functions to keep the food warm after cooking and prevents the flavor of the dish from dissipating.
Inner lid of the electric rice cooker
Just like the drainage valve, the inner lid is prone to dirt due to steam and food residue rising and adhering after each cooking cycle. Without regular cleaning, this becomes an ideal environment for vigorous bacterial growth, causing contamination and potentially transferring to freshly cooked rice. To ensure food safety, users should pay attention to cleaning the secondary lid regularly.
Steps to clean the inner lid of the electric rice cooker
How to clean the inner lid of the electric rice cooker:
- Ensure the rice cooker has stopped operating and is no longer at a high temperature.
- Gently remove the rubber knob to avoid tearing, then take out the inner lid of the electric rice cooker for easy cleaning.
- Use a dishwashing sponge or soft brush to clean any dirt or remaining food on the secondary lid. Only use clean water or dishwashing liquid to prevent corrosion of the lid. Thoroughly clean the crevices and hard-to-reach areas for perfect hygiene.
- Use clean water to wash the secondary lid thoroughly, then use a clean cloth or highly absorbent paper to dry. Afterward, reassemble it in the correct position.
3. Thermal Conductive Plate
The thermal conductive plate is situated at the bottom of the electric rice cooker and serves as the surface where the rice pot is placed. During usage, food particles, rice, or rice grains may fall onto this area.
Thermal conductive plate of the electric rice cooker
If not cleaned promptly, these particles can be burnt due to the temperature, creating stains on the thermal conductive plate. This will affect the heat transfer efficiency, making the cooker operate inefficiently and consume more electricity.
Clean the thermal conductive plate for the cooker to operate efficiently
How to clean the thermal conductive plate:
- Ensure that the rice cooker has been disconnected from the power source and allowed to cool completely before starting the cleaning process.
- Use a soft brush and toothpaste to remove dirt and light burn marks. Wipe off excess toothpaste with a damp soft cloth. Note: Do not pour water into the cooker for cleaning to avoid short circuits and damage to the cooker.
- Dry the thermal conductive plate with a clean and dry cloth, allowing the cooker to completely dry before use.
- Avoid using strong cleaning agents or hard materials (such as steel wool) to clean the thermal conductive plate, as this may cause scratches or damage to the surface. Ensure that water does not enter the electrical or technical parts of the cooker.
Conclusion: Here is information about 3 areas in the rice cooker that need regular cleaning and specific cleaning methods for each part. We hope that the article shared by Mytour Supermarket will be helpful for your rice cooker usage.
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