How To Clean A Mixer Grinder Safely: 10 Easy Tips For Long-Lasting Blades

Picture this: it's a Sunday morning, the aroma of freshly ground filter coffee on the coffee table fills the air, and the grinder is humming away, blending chutney for the family breakfast. But once the plates are clean and bellies full, there it sits, the mixer jar, with dried masala clinging to its edges and stubborn turmeric stains laughing back at you.

Sound familiar? You're not alone. Cleaning a mixer grinder often feels like an unwanted chore, one that's either rushed or left for 'later' (which, let's be honest, rarely comes). But here's the secret: cleaning your mixer grinder the right way not only keeps it sparkling but also extends its life and ensures your chutneys and batters taste as fresh as ever.

This guide takes you through simple, fool-proof ways to clean your mixer grinder without damaging those sharp, hardworking blades. Whether it's haldi stains, onion odours, or lingering grease, these tips will help you keep your grinder looking brand new and working like a dream.

10 Easy Tips to Safely Clean a Mixer Grinder for Blades That Last; Photo Credit: Pexels

1. Start With a Quick Rinse After Every Use

The golden rule for keeping a mixer grinder spotless is to never let the mess sit. Think of it like washing your hands; quick, regular rinses prevent stubborn build-up.

As soon as the jar is empty, fill it halfway with warm water, add a few drops of dishwashing liquid, and run the mixer for 20 seconds. This creates a soapy swirl that loosens residue, even the bits stuck under the blades. Rinse with clean water, and the jar will be fresh for next time.

It sounds simple, but this quick step saves so much effort later. Skip it, and you'll be battling dried curry paste or oily film the next time you need the jar. Think of it as teaching your grinder a bit of hygiene discipline, because a clean start is half the battle won.

2. Use Mild Cleaners – Avoid Harsh Chemicals

It's tempting to grab strong detergents or scouring powders, especially when you're staring down stubborn turmeric or masala stains. But resist the urge. Harsh cleaners may dull the shine of the jar, scratch the surface, or worse, damage the blades over time.

Stick to mild, kitchen-safe options. A few drops of dishwashing liquid, diluted vinegar, or even a gentle scrub with baking soda does the job beautifully. For those who prefer a more traditional touch, a paste of tamarind and a pinch of salt works wonders for lifting stains and adding that natural gleam back to your jars.

Remember, those blades are sharp but delicate. Treat them gently and they'll reward you with years of smooth grinding and perfect consistency every time.

Also Read: How To Choose The Right Mixer Grinder For Your Cooking Needs: Check Top Features

3. The Secret to Sparkling Blades

Blades can be tricky to clean, especially when bits of batter or paste cling underneath. The safest way to handle this is to let the blender do the work for you.

Fill the jar with warm water, add a teaspoon of baking soda or a drop of dishwashing liquid, and let it run for a quick 30-second spin. The swirling action dislodges hidden food particles without requiring you to poke around near the blades.

If something stubborn remains, use a soft toothbrush to gently scrub around the base. Never use sharp objects or metal spoons, as they can bend or blunt the blades. Think of it like caring for a chef's knife, gentle hands keep them razor-sharp for longer.

4. Tackle Turmeric and Stubborn Stains

Ah, turmeric, the spice that adds sunshine to curries and permanent yellow tattoos to every surface it touches. If your jars look like they've been through a Holi party, don't panic.

Here's a tried-and-tested trick: lemon and baking soda. Sprinkle a little soda inside the jar, squeeze in some lemon juice, and let it fizz. After 10 minutes, scrub gently with a soft sponge and rinse with warm water. The acidity cuts through the stain and removes lingering odours too.

Another home remedy? Soak the jar in diluted vinegar or buttermilk overnight. The next morning, the stains will wipe off effortlessly. No elbow grease, no scratches, just sparkling jars ready for their next grind.

10 Easy Tips to Safely Clean a Mixer Grinder for Blades That Last; Photo Credit: Pexels

5. Odour Removal Made Easy

Ever blended garlic or onions only to find their smell haunting your fruit smoothies later? Lingering odours are one of the biggest complaints with mixer grinders, but there's an easy fix.

Fill the jar with warm water and add a spoonful of baking soda. Let it sit for 15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. Alternatively, blend a handful of citrus peels, orange, lemon, or even sweet lime, with water for a natural deodoriser that leaves the jar smelling fresh and clean.

For those who love old-school hacks, try rubbing the inside of the jar with a slice of raw papaya or tamarind pulp. It's an age-old trick that actually works wonders to neutralise strong smells.

6. Cleaning the Base Unit

The jars often get all the attention, but the base of your mixer, the motor unit, is equally important. And here's the catch: water and motors do not mix.

Start by unplugging the appliance. Use a slightly damp cloth to wipe the exterior and a dry brush or toothpick to gently remove any food crumbs or dried batter around the buttons and vents. If there are stubborn stains, a touch of mild detergent on the cloth can help, but never pour water directly on the base.

Once cleaned, dry the unit with a soft towel to avoid moisture damage. A clean base not only keeps the machine hygienic but also ensures smooth, noise-free operation for years.

7. Don't Forget the Lids and Gaskets

The lids and rubber gaskets often get overlooked, but they are breeding grounds for grime and odours. After each use, wash the lids separately with warm soapy water.

For the rubber gaskets, remove them from the lid if possible and soak them in a mix of warm water and vinegar for about 10 minutes. This not only removes residue but also prevents the rubber from becoming brittle over time.

Dry them completely before reattaching, as moisture trapped between the lid and gasket can lead to mould, a common issue during the humid monsoon months.

Clean a mixer grinder safely with easy steps to follow; Photo Credit: Pexels

8. Safety First – Handle Blades with Care

While cleaning, it's easy to forget how sharp those blades really are, until you end up with a painful nick. Always hold the jar by the rim when scrubbing, keeping your fingers away from the blades.

If you need to scrub near the base, use a toothbrush, bottle brush, or a sponge with a handle. Never try to twist or detach the blades forcefully unless your model specifically allows it. Damaging the blade mechanism can lead to wobbly jars and uneven grinding.

Think of this step as a reminder: clean hands are great, but safe hands are even better.

9. Weekly Deep Cleaning Ritual

Just like your weekend home cleaning, your mixer grinder deserves a weekly deep cleanse. Pick a day, maybe Sunday afternoon after lunch prep, and dedicate 15 minutes to it.

Disassemble the jars, lids, and gaskets. Wash them thoroughly, soak the jars in warm soapy water for a few minutes, scrub gently, and rinse well. For the base, use a soft brush to clean vents and ensure the motor stays dust-free.

This small ritual keeps your appliance in peak condition and saves you from the frustration of a jammed jar or dull blades during your next cooking spree.

10. Storage Tips for a Longer Life

Cleanliness goes hand-in-hand with proper storage. After cleaning, always dry the jars completely before stacking them away. Moisture can lead to rust on the blades and foul smells in the jar.

Store the jars upside down to let any residual water drip out. Keep the mixer base covered with a cloth when not in use to protect it from kitchen dust and spills. And, if you have the space, dedicate a small corner for it so that it's safe from accidental knocks or spills while cooking.

These small habits keep your mixer grinder in top shape and save you from unnecessary repair costs that can easily cross ₹1,000 for blade replacements or motor fixes.

Products Related To This Article

1. Bajaj 500 Watt GX-1 Mixer Grinder with 3 Jars- white

2. NutriPro Juicer Mixer Grinder

3. Lifelong LLMG23 Power Pro 500-Watt Mixer Grinder

4. Havells Pulse 500 Watt Mixer Grinder

5. Butterfly ZieraBlack 1000 Watt Mixer Grinder

A mixer grinder is more than just an appliance; it's a kitchen companion that simplifies daily cooking and keeps flavours fresh. Regular, mindful cleaning keeps it efficient, odour-free, and looking brand new.

From quick rinses after every use to weekly deep cleaning and safe handling of blades, every tip in this guide ensures your grinder stays in peak condition. After all, a clean grinder isn't just about hygiene; it's about preserving the taste of every chutney, spice mix, and batter that makes meals at home so special.

So, the next time you finish blending your dosa batter or grinding your masala, don't just park the jar in the sink. Give it the care it deserves, get mixer grinders online today, and it'll thank you with flawless performance for years to come.

Disclaimer: The images used in this article are for illustration purposes only. They may not be an exact representation of the products, categories, and brands listed in this article.