How To Clean Slow Cooker Heating Element

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Slow cookers (or "crockpots") often come in three parts: the cooker itself (the "pot"), the liner that goes inside (the "crock"), and the lid that goes on top. Even though the food goes into the liner and the liner goes into the cooker, crud can still accumulate along the inside of the cooker, which then requires hand-cleaning. Unfortunately, the cooker isn't safe to wash in a dishwasher. And though many models come with a removable liner, some do not, which means you have to handwash it after use.

1
Buy the right product. While some manufactured cleaners meant for ovens and grills can be used on the inside of your slow cooker, be sure to read the warnings and directions before purchasing or using them. Check to make sure the product is safe to use on the material in question (in the case of a slow cooker, this is often aluminium). Look for items specifically labeled as non-abrasive cleaners, or simply use vinegar as a cleaner if you are in doubt.^[1]
- If you are unsure of the material used inside your slow cooker, contact the manufacturer or visit their website to find out, or consider an alternate method.
- Be advised that many manufacturers do not include instructions for cleaning the inside of the cooker. Instead, they recommended professional servicing.
2
Choose a well-ventilated area. Expect the fumes from such cleaners to be toxic when inhaled and/or simply overpowering in smell. If possible, clean your slow cooker outdoors for the best air circulation. If this is not possible, choose a space with open windows, exhaust fans, and/or a strong cross-breeze.
- Although this is a general rule when using chemicals, it is especially important here, since you will be working directly over the item to be cleaned.
3
Coat the inside of the slow cooker. First, remove the liner from your crockpot. Then spray the interior with cleaner. Check the product's directions to find out how long you should allow the foam to sit before cleaning up.
- For especially dirty cookers, wait a while longer for the dirt and grime to absorb even more foam.
4
Wipe the inside clean. Use a sponge, dishcloth, or similar soft material to wipe up the cleaner.^[2] If needed, scrub to remove any stubborn bits that haven't fully detached from the walls. If scrubbing still doesn't work, apply a second coat and repeat.
- Be sure you have removed all traces of cleaner before using the cooker again. After wiping up the foam and dirt with a sponge, use paper towels to go over the inside again. Dry it thoroughly.

1
Place a bowl of ammonia inside. First, remove the liner from the crockpot. Then choose a bowl that is small enough to fit inside the cooker. Place it on the bottom of the cooker and then fill the bowl with ammonia.^[3]
- Always use a bowl or similar container. Never pour the ammonia directly into the cooker.
2

Cover and wait. Set the cooker's lid into place. Then wait for 12 to 24 hours. Give the ammonia's fumes time to collect inside the cooker and loosen the dirt and grime on the walls.
3
Wipe the inside clean. Uncover the cooker and take the bowl out. Use paper towels to wipe up the loosened crud from the inside of the cooker.^[4]
- For any stubborn bits, make a paste to scrub into them with a sponge. Add hydrogen peroxide to baking soda in a small bowl mixing bowl until there is enough liquid to stir the two into a paste.^[5]

1
Heat water inside after each use. To ensure a quick cleanup, empty the cooker of all food once it is done cooking. Before you sit down to enjoy your hot meal, fill the cooker up with enough water to cover any remaining food that clings to the inside. Turn the heat to low while you eat.^[6]
- This will prevent the traces of food inside from drying into a crust.
2
Use dish soap and hot water. For easy-to-clean messes, pour a squirt of dish soap into the bottom of the cooker. Add enough hot water to line the bottom and create suds. Then use a sponge to scrub the interior clean. Rinse and dry immediately with cloth or paper towels.^[7]
- Be careful with rinsing. Use your sink's spray nozzle or pour water along the inside only. Then carefully pour the dirty water into the sink.
- Water on the outside of the cleaner could effect electrical components.
3
Apply a paste. For tougher messes, make a paste with baking soda and hydrogen peroxide, since the baking soda will be more abrasive on any stubborn gunk. Shake about a quarter cup (two ounces) of baking soda into the bottom of the cooker. Add hydrogen peroxide until there is enough liquid to stir them into a thick paste.^[8] Then scrub the insides with the paste and a sponge.^[9]
- If needed, add more soda and peroxide to create more paste on your first try, or repeat as needed.

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Question

How do I clean the slow cooker without scratching it?

James Sears leads the customer happiness team at Neatly, a group of cleaning gurus based in Los Angeles and Orange County, California. James is an expert in all things clean and provides transformative experiences by reducing clutter and renewing your home environment. James is a current Trustee Scholar at the University of Southern California.

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Expert Answer
Question

Does it ruin a slow cooker to place water (1" or more) into the aluminum (under the actual crock unit)?

Yes. There should be no water or any other liquid placed in a slow cooker in the heating element area. Place everything in the crock pot.

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Always unplug electric cookers before cleaning to avoid electric shock.
Many manufacturers' instructions advise seeking professional care cleaning anything other than removable parts.

Things You'll Need

Sponges
Paper towels
Oven and grill cleaner
Small bowl
Ammonia
Baking Soda
Hydrogen peroxide
Dish soap
Water

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