The first time I used a slow cooker, it felt like magic. I tossed in a few ingredients, went about my day, and came home to a perfect meal. But soon, I noticed the outside metal part looked greasy and dull. It didn’t feel right to leave it that way. Learning how to clean the metal part of a slow cooker made a big difference in my kitchen. It not only looked better, it lasted longer too. In this guide, I’ll share my favorite way to clean it—easy, safe, and beginner-friendly. Let’s make your slow cooker shine again.
Why Cleaning the Metal Part Matters
Grease and dust gather fast on the metal part. They leave stains, make it sticky, and dull the shine. Over time, heat spreads unevenly, and that can slow your cooking.
Smells also build up. Old spills burn and give off a sour scent. It clings to the surface and lingers in the room. That’s not the kitchen vibe anyone wants.
I’ve been there. My cooker once smelled like burnt onions before I even turned it on. A quick wipe wasn’t enough.
Even with the best slow cookers for one person, grime shows up fast. A clean shell means better meals and less mess.
Get to Know the Parts of Your Slow Cooker
The metal part is the outside shell. It holds the heating coil and supports the pot inside. Some call it the base or housing. No matter the name, it’s the part that powers the whole thing.
You can’t get it wet. Water can seep into the bottom and damage the parts inside. A splash is fine, but soaking or spraying it can short the wires. Always wipe it with a damp cloth, never dunk or rinse it.
What You’ll Need: Basic Tools
You don’t need much to clean the metal part. Most tools are already in your kitchen. Here’s what I use every time:
Basic tools:
- Soft cloth or sponge
- Mild dish soap
- Warm water
- White vinegar
For tougher spots:
- Baking soda
- Old toothbrush
- Cotton swabs
- Dry microfiber towel
That’s it. No fancy sprays. No harsh scrubbers. Just safe, simple tools that keep your slow cooker clean without risk.
Step-by-Step: How to Clean the Metal Part of a Slow Cooker
01. Unplug and cool down
Make sure your cooker is off and cool to the touch. Never clean it while warm or plugged in.
02. Remove the pot and lid
Take out the ceramic insert and glass lid. Set them aside to clean later.
03. Wipe off loose crumbs
Use a dry cloth to sweep away dust and food bits. This makes cleaning easier.
04. Mix a mild cleaner
Add a few drops of dish soap to warm water. Dip your cloth and wring it out well.
05. Wipe the metal part
Gently rub the outside with the damp cloth. This is the core step in how to clean the metal part of a slow cooker.
06. Scrub small spots
Use a toothbrush for vents, knobs, or stuck-on food. Go easy to avoid scratches.
07. Rinse with a clean cloth
Dip another cloth in clean water. Wipe again to remove soap.
08. Tackle grease with vinegar
Put a bit of white vinegar on a cloth. Rub any oily patches until they fade.
09. Dry with a towel
Use a soft, dry cloth to finish the job. This keeps water spots away and adds shine.
My Favourite Tricks from Years in the Kitchen
Over time, I’ve found a few tricks that never fail. These small habits make a big difference.
I always dry the shell right after wiping it. Leaving it damp can cause water spots or streaks. A soft towel does the job in seconds.
For greasy spots, vinegar works better than any store cleaner. It cuts through oil without leaving a smell. Just a small amount on a cloth is all you need.
I never spray anything directly on the cooker. It’s too risky. Spray bottles send liquid into places it shouldn’t go.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even with good intentions, it’s easy to make cleaning errors. These small mistakes can damage your cooker or shorten its life.
- Submerging the base
Never place the metal part in water. It has wires inside that can short out or rust. - Using harsh cleaners or scouring pads
These scratch the surface and leave it looking dull. Stick to soft cloths and mild soap. - Ignoring regular maintenance
Skipping cleanings leads to grease buildup. A quick wipe after each use saves time later. - Forgetting to clean knobs and crevices
Dirt hides in corners. Use a toothbrush or cotton swab to reach those tight spots.
How Often Should You Clean It?
You don’t need to deep clean after every use. A quick wipe with a damp cloth is often enough. It takes less than a minute and keeps grime from building up.
I do a full clean once a week. That includes wiping with vinegar, scrubbing corners, and drying it well. It’s part of my kitchen routine now—like washing dishes or wiping the stove.
If you cook something messy, clean it right away. Sauces and grease harden fast. Catching them early makes the job easier.
Final Thoughts
A slow cooker isn’t just a kitchen tool. It’s a quiet partner that helps you make warm, homemade meals with almost no effort. Taking care of it feels good—like caring for a friend that’s always there for you.
Cleaning doesn’t need to be a chore. It can be a small act of love for your space, your food, and your peace of mind. A few minutes of care keeps everything running smooth.
Make it a habit. Wipe it down. Give it a shine. Treat it well, and it will return the favor—meal after meal.
