Safety, Cleaning & Maintenance

Do I need to replace my sealing ring?
YES – ALWAYS check for cuts, deformation and correct installation before cooking,as sealing rings stretch over time with normal use. If you notice stretching,deformation, or damage to your sealing ring, DO NOT use it.REPLACE the sealing ring every 12 to 18 months or sooner, and only useauthorized Instant Pot sealing rings.Failure to follow these instructions may cause food to discharge, which may leadto personal injury or property damage.

Is the Instant Pot BPA free?
The Instant Pot provides BPA free cooking.

Why does the inner pot have a rainbow stain after washing?
The discoloration on the stainless steel cooking pot is called “rainbowing,” which can be caused by exposure to high heat, cooking starchy food (e.g. rice, pasta) or even detergent staining after hand or machine washing. This is common and normal in all stainless steel cookware.

The Inner Pot doesn’t show the correct quart size.
We advertise the quart size as the complete volume of the inner pot, the volume when cooking will be a lower capacity.

When cooking with recipes with starchy or expanding foods (legumes, pasta, porridge, rice, soup, etc), DO NOT fill past the “1/2” marker in the inner pot. For all other recipes, DO NOT fill the inner pot past the “PC MAX” line. Failure to follow these instructions may result in personal injury and/or property damage.

What foods should I avoid cooking in a pressure cooker?
The Instant Pot can cook a wide variety of foods. For best results, we recommend using a trusted Instant Pot recipe.

How do I release steam safely?
Do not use the quick release method when cooking fatty, oily, thick, or high-starch foods (e.g. stews, chilis, pasta, and congee) or when cooking foods that expand when cooked (e.g. beans and grains). DO NOT place your face, hands or exposed skin over the steam release handle or float valve when the appliance is in operation or has residual pressure, and do not lean over the appliance when removing the lid.

Why is the inner pot stuck to the lid after cooking and how do I fix this?
Hot liquid can build up pressure in the pot. To release the pressure, activate the steam release valve. DO NOT open lid while it is still under pressure. Failure to follow these instructions may result in personal injury and/or property damage.

What is the quality of the Stainless steel inner pot?
The inner pot is made from food grade 304 (18/8) stainless steel, with no chemical coating, and is compliant with FDA food safety standards. Additionally, the inner cooking pot is dishwasher-safe.

How do I turn my Instant Pot off completely? It simply mentions OFF.
To turn off your Instant Pot, press the cancel button and unplug from the power outlet when not in use and prior to cleaning.

Can I pressure cook with withmore than 1/4 cup (~2 oz / 60 mL) oil, oil-based sauces, condensed cream-basedsoups, and thick sauces?
To avoid scorching or scalding injury, be cautious when pressure cooking withmore than 1/4 cup (~2 oz / 60 mL) oil, oil-based sauces, condensed cream-basedsoups, and thick sauces. Add suitable liquid to thin sauces. Avoid recipes that callfor more than 1/4 cup (~2 oz / 60 mL) of oil or fat content. Failure to follow these instructions may result in personal injury and/or property damage and will void the warranty.

How do I clean and maintain my pressure cooker properly?
Follow the cleaning guidelines outlined in your user manual and ensure you clean your Instant Pot and its parts after each use. The steam rack, and the lid and its accessories are top-rack dishwasher safe. The inner pot is dishwasher safe. To clean the body of your Instant Pot, wipe the inside of the outer pot as well as the condensation rim with a barely damp cloth. Allow them to dry completely before inserting the inner pot. Clean the Instant Pot’s base and control panel with a soft, barely damp cloth or sponge. Please ensure all parts are dry before storing them. Routinely inspect accessories and components and replace if you notice damage or wear.

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