How do you remove mineral deposits from juicer parts?
Juicing fresh fruits and vegetables is a great way to get important nutrients into your diet. However, the juicing process can leave behind mineral deposits that build up on juicer parts over time. While harmless, these deposits can make juicer parts look dirty, affect juicer performance, and be difficult to remove. With the right methods and products, you can learn how to effectively remove stubborn mineral deposits from all parts of your juicer.
What Causes Mineral Deposits on Juicers?
Mineral deposits on juicers are caused by the natural minerals found in produce, mainly calcium and magnesium. When you juice fruits and vegetables, the juicing process breaks down the cell walls and releases these mineral salts. Over time, the minerals can accumulate on juicer parts and form hardened deposits.
Citrus fruits like lemons and limes contain the most minerals and are the biggest culprits when it comes to mineral buildup on juicers. Leafy greens like kale and spinach also contain minerals that can leave deposits. Hard water, which contains a high concentration of dissolved minerals, will further contribute to mineral deposits when used to clean the juicer.
Why Remove Mineral Deposits from Juicer Parts?
Here are some key reasons why you should keep your juicer free of mineral deposits:
- Improve performance – Mineral deposits can clog small holes and prevent juicer parts from functioning properly.
- Extend juicer lifespan – Buildup can damage juicer parts over time.
- Sanitary – Mineral deposits harbor bacteria.
- Improve taste – Deposits can transfer unpleasant flavors to your juice.
- Easier to clean – Removing deposits prevents further buildup.
How to Remove Mineral Deposits from Juicer Parts
Removing stubborn mineral deposits takes a little time and effort. Here are some effective methods and helpful tips for getting rid of them.
Disassemble the Juicer
Start by fully disassembling the juicer according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Take apart all parts that come in contact with juice and produce during juicing. This includes the external housing, juice bowl, cutting blade, filter basket, pulp container, and any other internal parts. Spread out the disassembled parts on a clean surface.
Soak in Vinegar
One of the most effective ways to remove mineral deposits from juicer parts is to soak them in vinegar. White distilled vinegar or apple cider vinegar work best. The acetic acid in vinegar dissolves mineral buildup. Follow these steps:
- Fill a non-metal container with undiluted vinegar large enough to submerge all the juicer parts. Plastic, glass, or ceramic work well.
- Completely submerge juicer parts in the vinegar and let them soak for at least 30 minutes. For stubborn buildup, soak overnight.
- Use a soft brush or cloth to gently scrub parts while soaking to help remove deposits.
- Rinse parts thoroughly with clean water after soaking to remove any remaining vinegar.
Use Baking Soda
Baking soda is mildly abrasive so it can scrub away mineral deposits. Make a paste with water and apply to affected areas. Let it sit for 5 minutes before scrubbing with a brush and rinsing. For tougher buildup, boil juicer parts in a solution of 1 cup baking soda to 4 cups water for 10-15 minutes.
Try Lemon Juice
Fresh lemon juice also contains citric acid that can help dissolve mineral deposits. Squeeze lemon juice directly onto stained areas and let sit for 10 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing. For a more intense approach, boil juicer parts in a pot of water with 1-2 lemons squeezed into it.
Use a Juicer Cleaning Solution
Look for a commercial juicer cleaning solution made specifically for removing mineral deposits. Many popular juicer brands sell their own line of cleaning products. Or you can find a general produce cleaning solution at stores or online. Simply soak juicer parts according to package directions.
Scrub with a Brush
For stuck-on deposits, use a brush to manually scrub away buildup after soaking:
- Soft brush for plastic parts
- Stiff nylon brush for metal or hard plastic
- Old toothbrush for small crevices
Avoid abrasive scrubbers that could scratch surfaces. Scrub gently to remove deposits without damaging juicer parts.
Rinse and Dry Completely
Always rinse juicer parts thoroughly with clean water after cleaning to remove any residue. Then dry fully with a soft towel. Leftover moisture could allow new mineral deposits to form.
How to Prevent Mineral Deposits on Juicers
Preventing mineral buildup in the first place will save you from frequent heavy-duty cleanings. Here are some tips to keep your juicer parts deposit-free:
- Rinse juicer parts immediately after use. Don’t let juice or pulp residue dry on.
- Disassemble and clean juicer regularly after 1-2 uses.
- Use a soft brush or cloth to gently scrub away wet residue.
- Use distilled water to rinse parts after cleaning.
- Alternate citrus juices with non-citrus juices that contain less minerals.
- Run pulp-free juices like coconut water through juicer to rinse.
- Wipe down juicer parts with lemon juice or vinegar regularly.
- Soak juicer parts in vinegar solution weekly.
Best Products for Removing Juicer Mineral Deposits
Having the right cleaning products on hand can make removing mineral deposits much easier. Here are some of the best solutions to try:
Distilled White Vinegar
Distilled white vinegar is highly effective at dissolving mineral deposits. It’s also inexpensive and non-toxic. Look for vinegar with at least 5% acidity. Keep a spray bottle filled with vinegar to spritz on juicer parts regularly to prevent buildup.
Citric Acid Powder
Citric acid powder offers a powerful descaling ability. Dissolve 1-2 tablespoons into 1 quart of warm water and soak juicer parts. Can also find premixed citric acid solutions.
Lemon Juice
Freshly squeezed lemon juice contains citric acid for removing deposits. Won’t leave any residual flavor. Keep lemon halves on hand to rub on stained areas. Can also boil lemon peels in water to make cleaning solution.
Baking Soda
Baking soda is a gentle abrasive cleaner and costs only pennies. Make a paste with water for scrubbing deposits or boil parts in baking soda solution. Arm & Hammer makes a dedicated cleaning powder with baking soda.
Juicer Brand Cleaners
Look for a juicer cleaning solution made by your juicer’s brand specifically to descale their models. For example, Tribest, Hurom, and Omega all offer specialty juicer cleaners.
Bottle Brushes
A set of narrow bottle brushes in various sizes make scrubbing the insides of juicer parts much easier. Look for brushes with stiff natural or nylon bristles.
Toothbrushes
Old toothbrushes are the perfect tool for scrubbing in tight crevices of juicer parts. Stock up on extra soft-bristled toothbrushes so you always have one on hand for juicer cleaning.
| Product | Price | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Distilled White Vinegar | $2-3 for 32oz | Powerful acid cuts mineral deposits, inexpensive, non-toxic |
| Citric Acid Powder | $5-10 for 1lb | Strong descaling ability, makes cleaning solution |
| Lemon Juice | $3-5 per lemon | Natural citric acid, leaves no flavor residue |
| Baking Soda | $1-2 for 16oz | Gentle abrasive, extremely inexpensive |
| Juicer Brand Cleaners | $5-15 for 16oz | Specialized for descaling specific models |
| Bottle Brushes | $5-10 for set | Perfect for scrubbing inside narrow parts |
| Toothbrushes | $1-3 each | Ideal for scrubbing tight crevices |
Tips for Removing Mineral Deposits from Juicers
Follow these tips for the most effective and efficient way to remove pesky mineral deposits from all your juicer parts:
- Soak juicer parts in vinegar or citric acid regularly to prevent buildup. Don’t wait until deposits form.
- Take apart and soak all removable juicer parts, not just some.
- Old toothbrushes excel at scrubbing crevices and around produce choppers.
- After descaling, run pulp-free juice or water through juicer to rinse.
- Alternate mineral-rich produce like citrus with low-mineral fruits and veggies.
- Avoid abrasive scouring pads that could damage surfaces.
- Always check manufacturer guidelines before cleaning.
- Dry juicer thoroughly after rinsing to prevent new deposits.
- Soak juicer parts in vinegar weekly to maintain.
FAQs About Removing Mineral Deposits from Juicers
What is the white film on my juicer parts?
White mineral deposits like calcium carbonate and magnesium carbonate are the most common cause of white film buildup on juicer parts. Citrus juice and hard water especially contribute to this film.
How can I get the film off my juicer screen?
Soak the juicer screen in undiluted white vinegar for 30-60 minutes. Gently scrub with a soft brush. Rinse well with water and dry thoroughly. Repeat process if needed for stubborn deposits.
Is it safe to use vinegar on all juicer materials?
Distilled white vinegar is generally safe for most materials. Avoid prolonged contact with marble, granite, or stainless steel. Test vinegar on a small area first. Don’t use vinegar with alkaline water ionizers.
What about using lemon juice instead of vinegar?
Lemon juice works well too! The citric acid in lemons dissolves mineral deposits just like vinegar. Squeeze fresh lemon juice onto stained areas and let sit before scrubbing.
Can I use baking soda on plastic juicer parts?
Yes, baking soda is safe for use on plastic. Make a paste with water and apply to deposits. Avoid abrasively scrubbing plastic to prevent scratching surface.
How can I prevent mineral deposits from forming?
Rinse juicer parts right after use, regularly descale with vinegar or citric acid, alternate produce high and low in minerals, and dry juicer parts thoroughly after cleaning.
Conclusion
Mineral deposits might be unsightly and annoying, but with the right techniques, they don’t have to be permanent juicer fixtures. A good cleaning regimen using natural acidic ingredients like lemon juice and vinegar will keep your juicer parts sparkling and deposit-free. Be sure to fully disassemble, soak, scrub, rinse, and dry all parts for best results. Keep citric acid, baking soda, and dedicated brushes on hand. With a little diligent care, you can enjoy fresh, mineral-rich juices without the mess!