How do you clean a moldy ninja blender?

Introduction

Mold growth is a common problem in blenders and other kitchen appliances that come into frequent contact with food and liquids. Blenders like the popular Ninja blender are prone to developing mold if not properly cleaned and maintained. Mold can grow quickly in the confined spaces and crevices inside a blender jar and lid, fueled by small bits of food and moisture that get trapped after use.

While mold itself poses no major health risks, long-term mold growth can damage the blender’s plastic components. More importantly, mold spores dispersed into blended drinks can cause allergy symptoms or respiratory irritation. So it’s important to remove mold from your Ninja blender as soon as you notice it.

Cleaning a mildly molded Ninja blender is straightforward. But if the mold growth is heavy, with visible mold patches, fuzziness, or coloration – more extensive cleaning will be required. This article walks through the step-by-step process for safely removing mild to severe mold from your Ninja blender.

Assessing the Mold Problem

The first step is to inspect your Ninja blender and identify the location and severity of mold growth. Look closely at the following areas:

• Inside the blender jar – on the sides, bottom, and blade assembly
• Jar lid and lid sealing ring
• Blender base, particularly around the jar coupling

Also note:

• Color and texture – white/green fuzziness indicates active mold
• Coverage area – isolated spots or large continuous patches
• Odor – musty smell signals mold growth

This will determine what level of cleaning is needed:

Light Mold Growth

A few small mold spots confined to the jar and lid components. Can be removed with thorough washing.

Moderate Mold Growth

Multiple mold patches or surface fuzziness inside the jar. May require replacing the jar.

Heavy Mold Growth

Thick mold growth along large areas. Likely requires replacing jar and possibly other components.

Safety Precautions

Mold spores can irritate your respiratory system. Take protective measures:

• Work in a well-ventilated area
• Wear gloves, mask, and eye protection
• Avoid breathing in visible mold

Also, fully unplug and disassemble your Ninja blender first. Never submerge the motor base in water.

Cleaning Tools & Supplies

Gather these cleaning tools and supplies:

For the Blender Jar

• Dish soap
• Stiff nylon brush
• Baking soda
• White vinegar
• Spray bottle of 50/50 vinegar and water solution
• Old toothbrush

For Other Components

• Disinfecting wipes
• Cotton swabs
• Rubbing alcohol

Optional:

• New replacement jar
• Hydrogen peroxide 3% solution
• Protective mask, gloves, and eyewear

Cleaning Steps by Mold Severity

Follow these methods based on how much mold is present.

For Light Mold Growth

1. Hand wash the blender jar, lid, and sealing ring in hot soapy water using a stiff nylon brush. Scrub away all visible mold.

2. Rinse thoroughly.

3. Fill jar halfway with water and add 1-2 tbsp baking soda. Blend on high 30 seconds to scrub inside.

4. Rinse jar thoroughly.

5. Hand wash components again if needed. Allow to air dry completely.

For Moderate Mold Growth

1. Discard and replace the jar if mold growth is moderate-heavy inside it. Mold can embed deep in pitted plastic.

2. Clean the blade assembly:

• Soak in vinegar solution 10-15 minutes
• Scrub with toothbrush
• Rinse thoroughly

3. Clean the lid and sealing ring:

• Soak in vinegar solution 10-15 minutes
• Scrub with nylon brush and toothbrush
• Rinse thoroughly

4. Allow components to air dry completely before reassembling with new jar.

For Heavy Mold Growth

1. Purchase a new blender jar and lid/sealing ring to replace molded components.

2. Thoroughly clean the blade assembly:

• Soak in 50/50 vinegar solution for 30 minutes
• Scrub with toothbrush
• Rinse thoroughly

3. Clean mold growth on base:

• Wipe down with disinfecting wipes
• Scrub crevices with cotton swabs dipped in rubbing alcohol
• Dry thoroughly with clean cloth

4. Reassemble with all new components. Safely discard old jar and lid.

Preventing Mold Recurrence

To prevent future mold growth in your Ninja blender, make these habits:

• Wash blender within an hour after each use
• Disassemble and hand wash components
• Dry components thoroughly after washing
• Store blender jar with lid OFF between uses
• Sanitize blender weekly with vinegar solution
• Replace jar and lid every 6-12 months

Following good blender hygiene practices will minimize moisture buildup and food residue that feed mold.

When to Replace the Blender

If mold growth was extensive, you may need to replace the entire blender. Signs it’s time to toss the whole unit:

• Visible mold inside motor base
• Musty smell persisting after thorough cleaning
• Damaged or warped components due to prolonged mold
• Rust on the blade assembly
• Repeated mold growth despite proper maintenance

Don’t risk continued exposure to mold spores. Buy a new Ninja blender if mold issues persist.

Conclusion

Mold in your Ninja blender can be promptly fixed with some elbow grease and proper cleaning methods. For light mold, a thorough hand washing of all components will do the trick. Moderate growth may require replacing the blender jar and fully cleaning other parts. Severe mold necessitates replacing the blender jar, lid, and possibly the entire unit if mold damage is extensive.

Be diligent about washing your Ninja thoroughly after each use, disassembling parts and drying them completely to prevent recurring mold issues. With routine care and maintenance, your Ninja blender can give you years of mold-free blending.