Introduction
Many people own and use blenders regularly for making smoothies, purees, and more. After using a blender, the next step is cleaning it. Some blender parts are dishwasher safe, but knowing where and how to place them in the dishwasher can help ensure they get fully clean. This article will provide tips on the best placement for blender parts in the dishwasher.
Assess Blender Dishwasher Safety
Before placing any blender parts in the dishwasher, check which components are dishwasher safe. Many blender pitchers are marked dishwasher safe, but blender bases should never go in the dishwasher. The heat, soap, and water pressure can damage the blender’s electrical parts. Any blender part with electronic buttons or controls should also be hand washed to prevent damage.
Stainless steel blender jars and plastic pitchers are commonly dishwasher safe. However, some blender containers are made of glass, which can become damaged from high heat drying cycles. Verify if your blender pitcher has any heat limitations before putting it in the dishwasher.
The blender blade assembly is often removable for easier cleaning. Check that this piece is dishwasher safe too. Blade assemblies tend to be durable and do well in the dishwasher. Just take care when handling the sharp edges during loading and unloading.
Strategic Blender Placement
When placing your blender pitcher in the dishwasher, think about the best positioning for maximum cleaning.
Here are some tips:
– Place the pitcher upright on the top rack. Nestle it between other items or secure with other dishwasher racks. This prevents the pitcher from falling over mid-cycle.
– Angle the open end of the pitcher toward the water spray. This allows full water pressure directly into the interior for a thorough wash.
– Make sure the blender blade assembly is detached and placed on the top rack too. Separating it ensures water reaches all sides.
– Position the blade assembly safely on its side or with blades facing down to prevent injury when unloading. Place it on the far end of the top rack away from where you reach in.
Strategies for Stubborn Blender Messes
Blender pitchers can be tricky to clean if smoothie or food residue sticks to the sides. Here are some tips for getting your blender sparkling clean in the dishwasher:
– Rinse the blender pitcher out immediately after use. Letting food dry on makes it harder to remove later.
– For dried-on messes, fill the pitcher with warm water and let soak before putting it in the dishwasher. This rehydrates stuck-on food particles.
– Use the rinse cycle or rinse hold setting on your dishwasher after loading the blender pitcher. This gives an initial rinse to loosen debris.
– Make sure your dishwasher has a high-pressure or turbo wash zone. Load blender parts in those areas for maximum cleaning action.
– Add a bit of lemon juice or vinegar to the blender and run a quick blend cycle. The acidity helps break down residue. Rinse before washing in the dishwasher.
– Use an enzymatic dishwasher detergent containing enzymes to break down food and oils. Scrape off any remaining bits before running the dishwasher.
Tips for a Complete Blender Clean
Follow these tips each time for a complete blender clean in the dishwasher:
– Immediately rinse the blender after use and let soak if needed to soften dried food debris.
– Remove the blade assembly from the pitcher and place both on the top rack, spaced apart.
– Position the open pitcher end toward the water spray with the blade assembly safely to the side or facing down.
– Select a high-pressure, turbo, or sanitize cycle for maximum cleaning action.
– Use a dishwasher detergent with enzymes or citric acid to break down grime.
– Allow the dishwasher cycle to fully complete before unloading. Extra heat from the drying cycle helps sanitize blender parts.
– Before first use, run the clean blender through a full dishwasher cycle with vinegar to remove any manufacturing residue.
Common Mistakes
It’s easy make mistakes that prevent your blender parts from getting super clean in the dishwasher. Avoid these common pitfalls:
Mistake: Overloading the dishwasher.
Solution: Leave space around blender parts for water coverage.
Mistake: Not detaching the blade assembly.
Solution: Remove it for cleaning all sides.
Mistake: Laying the pitcher sideways or upside down.
Solution: Stand it upright for direct water pressure.
Mistake: Using a light or quick wash cycle.
Solution: Choose a heavy or turbo cycle.
Mistake: Adding too much dishwasher detergent.
Solution: Use the recommended amount – excess suds can leave residue.
Special Considerations
Keep these special considerations in mind for safely washing blenders in the dishwasher:
– Only place dishwasher-safe blender parts on the top rack. Never wash a blender base in the dishwasher.
– Hand wash blender pitchers made of stoneware, crystal, or glass not rated for high heat.
– Let the heating drying cycle fully complete to sanitize blender parts after washing.
– Inspect blender gaskets and replace if deteriorating. Worn gaskets allow moisture damage over time.
– Replace blade assemblies that become bent or dull. Damaged blades are less safe and effective.
– Reattach blade assemblies carefully right before blending next. Don’t store them tightened onto pitcher.
Dishwasher Setting Recommendations
Follow these dishwasher recommendations when washing blender parts:
| Cycle | Wash Temperature | Dry Setting |
|---|---|---|
| Heavy or Pots & Pans | Hot temperature (120°F +) | Heated dry on |
| Sanitize | 150°F minimum | Heated dry on |
| Turbo | Hot temperature | Air dry open |
The high temperatures and heated drying help sanitize blender parts after washing. Turbo or intense cycles provide extra washing action for stubborn messes.
Conclusion
Washing blender pitchers, containers, and lids in the dishwasher is convenient, but proper loading placement and cycle selection help ensure a spotless clean. Always check manufacturer instructions and inspect components for dishwasher safety. For maximum clean, tilt the pitcher toward the water spray, separate the blade assembly, and choose an intensive, hot temperature cycle. With the right placement, loading, and dishwasher settings, blenders parts can come out pristine each time.
