We understand your attention to detail in your cookware. A well-maintained sealing ring is not only key to the longevity of your cookware, but also directly related to safety and peace of mind while cooking. Maintaining the sealing ring of a polished pressure cooker focuses on preventing aging, preserving elasticity, and regular inspection. Here are specific suggestions:
Daily Cleaning: Must be done after each use.
Timely Disassembly and Cleaning: After each use, remove the sealing ring and wash it with warm water and a neutral detergent. Pay special attention to cleaning food residue and grease in the grooves to prevent bacterial growth or blockage of the venting passage.
Tool Selection: Use a soft cloth or soft-bristled toothbrush to gently brush. Never use steel wool or hard brushes, as these may scratch the silicone surface and affect the seal.
Rinse Thoroughly: Ensure no detergent residue remains to avoid long-term contact with chemicals that can degrade the material.
Proper Drying: Preventing Deformation and Mold
Natural Air Drying: After cleaning, place the sealing ring in a well-ventilated area to air dry, avoiding direct sunlight or high-temperature baking to prevent accelerated aging of the silicone.
Hanging Upside Down: You can hang it upside down (e.g., draped over chopsticks) to avoid deformation caused by laying it flat, keeping the ring round and fit snugly.
Reinstalling Only After Complete Drying: Make sure it is completely dry before reinstalling it into the groove of the lid to prevent mold growth caused by a humid environment.
Regular Maintenance: Extending Service Life
Avoid Corrosive Substances: Do not soak in high-concentration vinegar, baking soda, or strong acid/alkali solutions, as these will corrode the silicone structure, causing cracking or loss of elasticity.
Try Silicone Oil Care: If the sealing ring appears slightly dry, you can apply a small amount of food-grade silicone oil for maintenance to restore flexibility and extend its service life.
Check the installation direction: When installing, make sure the protrusions face inward and match the groove on the lid. Otherwise, it may cause problems such as air leakage and inability to pressurize.