Introduction
Cuisinart makes a wide variety of kitchen appliances, including a popular line of citrus juicers. When using any kitchen appliance, it’s important to properly clean and care for it to ensure longevity. For juicers, a key question many consumers have is whether the model they have is dishwasher safe.
In this article, we’ll take a close look at Cuisinart’s citrus juicer models and provide information on whether they can be cleaned in the dishwasher. We’ll also give tips for hand washing citrus juicers if they cannot go in the dishwasher.
Overview of Cuisinart Citrus Juicers
Cuisinart offers several different citrus juicer models, including:
| Model | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Cuisinart CCJ-500 | Pulp control, auto-reversing reamer, final spin feature, dishwasher safe |
| Cuisinart CJ-500 | Auto-reversing cone, final spin feature, dishwasher safe |
| Cuisinart CJ-200 | Auto-reversing cone, final-spin feature |
| Cuisinart CPJ-200 | Auto-reversing cone, price point model |
As you can see, Cuisinart offers a range of citrus juicer models at different price points. The higher end models like the CCJ-500 and CJ-500 explicitly state they are dishwasher safe in the product descriptions. The lower end models like the CJ-200 and CPJ-200 do not specify either way if they can go in the dishwasher.
So are the CJ-200 and CPJ-200 dishwasher safe? Let’s take a closer look.
Dishwasher Safety of Cuisinart CJ-200
The Cuisinart CJ-200 is a very popular mid-range citrus juicer option. It has a sleek stainless steel design and convenient auto-reversing cone for efficient juicing.
Unfortunately, Cuisinart does not recommend putting the CJ-200 in the dishwasher. The user manual states:
“Caution: To protect the motor, do not immerse base in water or any other liquid, or place in dishwasher.”
The base houses the motor and electrical components. Since submerging this in water or subjecting it to dishwasher cycles could damage the motor, Cuisinart explicitly advises against it.
The juicing cone, however, can be placed in the top rack of a dishwasher. Just be sure to remove any pulp first by hand rinsing under water. You’ll want to avoid having excess pulp clog the dishwasher filter or spray arms.
But steer clear of putting the CJ-200 base in the dishwasher. Hand washing this part is your best bet.
Dishwasher Safety of Cuisinart CPJ-200
Like the CJ-200, the Cuisinart CPJ-200 citrus juicer is another model that the manufacturer states should not be placed in the dishwasher.
The user guide for the CPJ-200 contains the same warning as the CJ-200 against submerging the base or putting it in the dishwasher.
So for the CPJ-200, it’s the same guidance – the juicing cone can go in the dishwasher, but hand wash the base to protect the motor inside.
Tips for Hand Washing Cuisinart Citrus Juicers
For citrus juicer models like the CJ-200 and CPJ-200 that cannot go fully in the dishwasher, follow these tips for effective hand washing:
– Rinse juicing cone under running water immediately after juicing to remove leftover pulp and seeds. Pulp can quickly dry and clog small crevices.
– Use a soft sponge or cloth with warm, soapy water to scrub the cone. Avoid abrasive sponges that could scratch the surface.
– Rinse cone thoroughly after washing to remove any residual soap.
– For the base, wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth. Avoid submerging the base or using running water directly on it.
– Pay particular attention to where the cone attaches to the base, as pulp and juice can build up in this spot.
– Let all parts air dry fully prior to reassembling and storing. Do not towel dry, as towels may leave lint behind.
– For tough stains or dried on pulp, fill a sink or bowl with warm, soapy water. Let the cone or base soak for 10-15 minutes, then scrub and rinse clean.
Following this simple hand washing routine after each use will keep your Cuisinart citrus juicer clean and help it last for many years. Taking the extra time to hand wash parts that cannot go in the dishwasher will pay off with a high-functioning appliance.
Considering a New Cuisinart Citrus Juicer?
If you don’t currently own a Cuisinart citrus juicer, or are in the market for a new one, consider opting for one of their dishwasher safe models like the CJ-500 or CCJ-500. While the ability to clean parts in the dishwasher should not be the sole deciding factor, it can certainly make life easier.
The higher end dishwasher safe models have sturdy stainless steel construction and convenient features like pulp control that justify the higher price tag. Being able to simply place all the parts directly in the dishwasher saves time and makes clean up after juicing a breeze.
General Tips for Dishwashing Any Citrus Juicer
For those lucky enough to own a fully dishwasher safe citrus juicer, here are some tips for effective, trouble-free cleaning:
– As mentioned, always rinse immediately after juicing. It takes seconds and prevents drying.
– Shake or wipe off excess pulp first, so it doesn’t clog your dishwasher filter.
– Place small parts like juicing cones or domes securely in the top rack. This prevents damage from falling or getting knocked around.
– Run a rinse cycle soon after juicing. This can help remove stains and odor buildup.
– Citrus juice can be acidic. Use a dishwasher detergent booster or cup of vinegar periodically to help dissolve buildup.
– If available, use a sanitizing or antibacterial cycle. The high heat helps kill bacteria from moldy produce.
– Air dry all parts fully prior to storing, since trapped moisture can breed bacteria.
Following these tips, in addition to your dishwasher manufacturer’s instructions, will keep your juicer clean and maximize its lifespan.
Conclusion
Cuisinart makes high-quality citrus juicers, but not all models can be fully submerged or washed in the dishwasher. For certain models like the CJ-200 and CPJ-200, hand washing the base is recommended to protect the motor inside. But the detachable juicing cones can go in the dishwasher with proper precautions. For hassle-free cleaning, Cuisinart’s dishwasher safe models like the CJ-500 and CCJ-500 are a great choice. With any citrus juicer, proper cleaning after each use is key to keeping it in optimal condition.
