Are Crockpots Dishwasher Safe?
A crockpot is a great addition to any kitchen because it allows you to cook food without having to watch it. But can you put a crockpot in the dishwasher?
The overall answer is no to the entire crockpot. If the crock pot insert is made of stoneware, then you can put it in the dishwasher, along with the lid. The crockpot base with electrical components is not safe to put in the dishwasher.
There are many questions that arise when it comes to using a dishwasher to clean a crockpot. You have to consider things such as using a mild detergent and placement of the crockpot in your dishwasher. These are all valid concerns that will be addressed in this article.
What Parts Of A Crockpot Are Dishwasher Safe?
Before you throw your crockpot into the dishwasher first we need to consider what parts of a crockpot are safe.
The good news is that most crockpots are designed with dishwasher-safe parts. The crock pot consists of three main parts: the base, the insert, and the lid.
The base houses the heating element and controls. The insert is where the food goes. It is usually made of ceramic or stoneware and has a glazed finish that makes it non-stick and easy to clean. The lid seals in the heat and moisture, helping to create tender, flavorful dishes.
Most models have a removable stoneware pot that can go in the dishwasher, along with the lid.
The most important part that is not dishwasher safe is the heating base/element. The heated base should also never be submerged in water or any other type of liquid.
The crockpot has been a kitchen staple for many years and there are a variety of accessories, such as tongs and racks, etc. that can be used with it.
Please check the manufacturer’s manual to verify the specific accessory is dishwasher safe. If they are made of silicone you should be good to go but double check, please!
Steps To Clean Crockpot In The Dishwasher
Before you start cleaning the crockpot make sure that it is completely off, unplugged from the electrical outlet, and has cooled completely.
1. Remove the stoneware insert from the crock pot base.
2. Place the stoneware insert and lid in the dishwasher on the bottom rack.
3. Set the dishwasher to a normal cycle and run it as usual.
4. Once the cycle is complete, remove the insert and lid.
5. Allow it to air dry completely before reassembling your crock pot.
Avoid the use of abrasive chemicals or scouring pads. If you find that there is food residue in your crockpot, you can clean this with a cloth or sponge. A rubber spatula is also a safe way to remove any stuck on foods.
When you use the dishwasher to wash your crockpot try to not overload the dishwasher, this can cause dishes to come out dirty or with spots.
Can Stoneware Go In The Dishwasher?
Stoneware is a type of ceramic that is fired at high temperatures, making it very strong and durable. It is often used for making cookware, such as baking dishes and casseroles.
Stoneware can go in the dishwasher. Like other ceramic products, it is important to not subject your crockpot to sudden temperature changes. Do not try and wash your hot crockpot stoneware with cold water, wait until it cools down first.
How to clean non-dishwasher safe parts of your crockpot?
You can’t put the heating base of the crockpot into the dishwasher, but you can still clean it. The outside of the crockpot can be cleaned with a soft cloth and warm soapy water.
Do not submerge the crockpot in water to rinse. Use a cloth with warm water. Be sure to dry the heating base completely.
To clean the inside of the crockpot base, you’ll need vinegar and a bit of baking soda. Using a spray bottle, spray vinegar on any stains or stuck food and wipe with a soft cloth or sponge. If these stains are particularly tough, repeat spraying with vinegar and then sprinkle baking soda on the food or stain while still wet. This will help dissolve it. Wipe the area and repeat if necessary.
If you’d prefer to buy a cleaning product, you can try a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser or Bar Keeper’s Friend.
Are Crockpot Liners Dishwasher Safe?
This answer depends on the type of liner you are using. If you are using the disposable kind of liner these are usually made of a BPA-free nylon blend. It is a bag that goes inside your crockpot or slow cooker to prevent cooking messes. These are designed for one-time use.
However, if you are using a crockpot liner made of nonstick silicone material, these are meant to be reused and can go in the dishwasher.
Cleaning Crockpots By Hand Vs Dishwasher
Are you wondering if it is better to put a crockpot in the dishwasher or clean it by hand?
Assuming you’re talking about the pot and not the whole appliance, it can sometimes be easier to clean a crockpot in the dishwasher.
If you’re short on time, the dishwasher is a wonderful way to clean your crockpot.
Truthfully, both methods (handwashing or dishwashing) can get the stoneware liner and lid of the crockpot clean.
If you find that your dishwasher does an excellent job cleaning your regular dishes, you may opt for the dishwasher.
If there is a lot of stuck-on food and residue inside the pot, you might find yourself doing so much scrubbing and scraping (with a rubber spatula) that it may be better to just go ahead and hand wash.
Other Tips for Keeping Your Crockpot Clean
If you love using your crockpot but hate the clean-up, these tips are for you! With just a little bit of effort, you can keep your crockpot clean and looking like new.
After each use, wash the insert with hot soapy water. If there are any stubborn stains, scrub them with a soft brush or sponge. Rinse well and dry completely before storing.
Washing your crockpot immediately after use is the easiest way to keep it clean. The longer you wait to clean it, the harder it will be to get caked-up food out of it.
You can fill your crockpot stoneware liner with water and a dishwasher tablet and let it soak overnight.
In conclusion, washing your crockpot in the dishwasher is perfectly safe and easy to do. There are a few things to keep in mind, such as not washing the heated base, avoiding abrasive soaps, and using the lower dishwasher rack. But overall, it’s a quick and easy way to clean your crockpot.
