How to Clean Mixer Grinder: Blades, Jar & Motor Care
Your mixer grinder works hard — grinding masala, blending chutneys, and making dosa batter. But stuck residue in the blades and jar can harbour bacteria and affect taste. Here is how to clean it safely and keep it running for years.
Safety First: Always Unplug
Two non-negotiable safety rules:
- Unplug before cleaning. Even if the switch is off. Accidental button presses can cause injury when your hand is near the blade.
- Never submerge the motor base in water. The motor base contains electrical components. Water will damage them permanently. Only wipe the base with a damp cloth.
Quick Clean After Every Use: Warm Water + Dish Soap
Step-by-Step
- Add warm water to the jar — fill it about halfway.
- Add 1-2 drops of dish soap.
- Attach the jar to the motor base and blend on low speed for 20-30 seconds.
- Turn off, unplug, and pour out the soapy water.
- Rinse the jar 2-3 times with clean water.
- Leave the jar upside down on a dry cloth to air dry completely.
Why warm water? Warm water dissolves oils and food residue better than cold water. It also loosens anything stuck to the blades. Do not use boiling water — it can crack some plastic or glass jars.
When to use: After every use. This 1-minute habit prevents the buildup that makes deep cleaning necessary.
Deep Clean: The Rice Trick for Stuck Residue
Step-by-Step
- Unplug the mixer. Make sure the jar is completely dry.
- Add a handful (about 2-3 tablespoons) of raw, dry rice grains to the jar.
- Attach the jar and blend on medium speed for 30-40 seconds.
- Turn off and unplug. Discard the rice powder.
- Follow up with the warm water + soap quick clean method above.
- Dry the jar completely before storing.
Why it works: Dry rice grains are hard enough to scrub off stuck residue but soft enough not to damage the jar or blades. The grinding action reaches areas between the blades that a sponge cannot.
When to use: Once a week if you use the mixer daily, or whenever you notice discolouration or smell in the jar.
For Stubborn Turmeric Stains
If the jar has yellow turmeric stains, blend a paste of baking soda + water for 30 seconds, let it sit for 10 minutes, then rinse. For plastic jars, follow up by placing the open jar in sunlight for a few hours — UV breaks down curcumin. See our turmeric stain removal guide.
Blade Care: Clean Without Cutting Yourself
Mixer grinder blades are extremely sharp. Here is how to clean them safely:
- For fixed blades: Use the warm water + soap blend method. For stuck residue between blades, use a bottle brush or old toothbrush to gently scrub without touching the sharp edges.
- For removable blade assemblies: Unscrew the blade unit from the jar. Soak in warm soapy water for 10 minutes. Use a brush to clean. Rinse and dry completely before reassembling.
- Never use steel wool on blades: It dulls the cutting edge and leaves metal fragments.
Check the rubber gasket: The rubber ring at the base of the jar wears out over time and can trap food residue and bacteria. Clean it after every deep clean. Replace it yearly or when it becomes loose or cracked.
Motor Base Care
- Wipe exterior: Use a slightly damp cloth to wipe spills, splatters, and dust from the motor base. Dry immediately.
- Clean vents: The ventilation holes on the motor base collect dust over time. Use a dry brush or compressed air to clear them monthly. Blocked vents cause overheating.
- Clean the coupling: The metal or plastic coupling that connects the jar to the motor collects food residue. Wipe it clean after every use to maintain a good seal.
- Store dry: Make sure the motor base is completely dry before storing. Store in a dry area away from the stove and sink splashes.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I remove the smell from my mixer grinder jar?
Blend a paste of baking soda and warm water for 30 seconds, then let it sit for 15 minutes. Rinse thoroughly. For persistent smells (especially from garlic or fish), blend lemon juice with warm water for 30 seconds and rinse.
Can I put mixer grinder jars in the dishwasher?
Only if the manufacturer says it is dishwasher-safe. Most plastic mixer jars are not dishwasher-safe — the high heat can warp them. Glass jars may be safe, but check the manual first. Hand washing with warm water and soap is always the safest option.
How often should I replace mixer grinder blades?
Most mixer grinder blades last 3-5 years with normal use. If grinding takes noticeably longer, the blades may be dull. Some brands sell replacement blade assemblies. Check if sharpening services are available locally before replacing.
Why does my mixer grinder jar turn cloudy?
Cloudiness in plastic jars comes from micro-scratches caused by grinding hard ingredients and cleaning with abrasive materials. It is cosmetic and does not affect function. To prevent it, avoid grinding very hard items like dry turmeric root, and never use steel wool.
Is it safe to blend hot liquids in a mixer grinder?
Most mixer grinders are not designed for hot liquids. The steam can build pressure and cause the lid to pop off. Always let liquids cool to room temperature before blending. If you need to blend hot soups, use a hand blender (immersion blender) instead.
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Sources & References
- Bureau of Indian Standards — mixer grinder safety guidelines
- FSSAI — kitchen appliance hygiene
- Consumer Electronics Association — appliance maintenance
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