The key to maintaining the inner pot of a polished pressure cooker is to avoid damaging its dense, smooth surface layer. Consistent gentle cleaning and regular maintenance are essential to ensure a long-lasting, "wipe-clean" experience.
1. Daily Cleaning: Use the Right Tools, Don't Damage the Surface
Clean the inner pot promptly after use while it's still warm to significantly improve cleaning efficiency.
Recommended Method: Gently wipe with a soft cloth, sponge, or nylon brush dampened with neutral detergent. Rinse with water and dry immediately or let it air dry.
Strictly Prohibited: Never use steel wool, scouring pads, or other abrasive cleaning tools, especially on non-stick coatings or mirror-polished layers, as these can cause irreversible scratches.
Stubborn Stains Treatment: Soak the inner pot in warm water with baking soda for 10 minutes, then gently wipe with a soft cloth. This easily removes stains without damaging the inner pot.
2. Avoid High-Temperature Dry-Heating and Sudden Temperature Changes
Dry-heating can cause localized overheating of the polished layer, resulting in micro-cracks or discoloration; sudden rinsing with cold water may cause damage due to thermal expansion and contraction.
Ensure sufficient liquid in the pot during cooking to avoid dry-heating.
Allow the inner pot to cool naturally after use before cleaning.
3. Regular Inspection and Deep Maintenance
Inspect the inner pot surface monthly for scratches, discoloration, or roughness, especially the bottom and edges.
If slight oxidation or dullness is found, it can be locally wiped with a mixture of white vinegar and baking soda to restore shine (note: only for intact coatings).
For uncoated stainless steel or pure titanium inner pots, a light coat of cooking oil can be applied periodically to form a physical protective film and improve non-stick properties.
4. Proper Storage to Prevent Impacts
After cleaning and drying, store the inner pot upside down or separately to avoid stacking it with other metal cookware, which could cause scratches and affect the integrity of the polished surface.