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Whether you’re a professional cook or self-proclaimed foodie, you know that a blender is one of the most important tools in the kitchen. Of course, you wouldn’t leave it to the basic Black & Decker to fulfill all your pureeing needs, so you probably shelled out a few hundred dollars to own the coveted Vitamix. The amazing machine features some of the most durable blades around, able to cut through the thickest kale and full size fruits. Not only that, but it can even grind grains into flour and nuts into homemade nut butter. The only downside? There’s nothing more difficult than trying to scrape out your leftovers from the bottom of the blender. To help save you a considerable amount of time and man power, we’ve uncovered the most efficient way to clean your Vitamix.
According to the Vitamix website, follow these steps if your machine has a pre-programmed Clean setting:
- 1. After each use, rinse the container with warm – not hot – water.
- 2. Place a few drops of dish soap into the container and fill it halfway with warm water.
- 3. Close the lid and make sure the lid plug is on the locked position.
- 4. Choose the Clean setting and start the machine. Your machine will automatically turn off when the cycle is complete.
- 5. Pour the water out and rinse the container thoroughly. Turn it upside down on a dish rag to let it air dry.
Alternatively, follow the below steps if your machine DOES NOT have a Clean setting:
- 1. Complete steps 1 -4 above.
- 2. Start the blender on Variable Speed 1, slowly increase to Variable Speed 10, and then switch to High. Run the machine on High for 30 – 60 seconds.
- 3. Finish off by completing step 5 above.
Of course, you’ll want to perform a deep clean about once every month to really get your machine sparkling clean. For a thorough wash:
- 1. Place 4 cups of cool water and 4 cups of white vinegar into the container and let it soak for about four hours.
- 2. Pour the contents out and rinse. Follow the appropriate cleaning instructions for your specific machine.
- Additional note: It’s not recommended that you clean the container in the dishwasher as this could damage its components. Some dishwasher detergents feature chemicals that can harm the factory seal or bearings inside of the blade, as well as “etch” the plastic, leaving it looking permanently cloudy.
Your machine may also start to look cloudy due to mineral buildup from the water in your faucet and from fruits and veggies. If this is the case, follow the steps below to get your machine looking brand new:
- 1. Make a paste of baking soda and water.
- 2. Dip a wet paper towel into the mixture and apply the paste to the inside of the container. Apply pressure using circular motions to rub off the mineral buildup. You’ll see your paper towel turn from a darker to lighter color as the grime comes off.
- Complete the process until your blender looks shiny again.
You may love to use the healthful ingredient tumeric, but you may not be so enthused when it turns your machine an unsightly yellow or green color. But don’t worry, there’s an easy fix for that:
- 1. Simply place your turmeric-stained container out in sunlight. The UV rays will bleach it clean again in a matter of hours!
For even more helpful cleaning tips, check out Learn How To Properly Clean Your Laptop and How To Clean A Sticky Bra.
