Is Instant Pot Inner Pot dishwasher safe?
Sometimes — the stainless steel inner pot is dishwasher safe, but the lid, silicone sealing ring, and any non-stick coated inner pots should be hand washed.
Quick facts
| Dishwasher safe? | Sometimes — Sometimes — with care |
|---|---|
| Category | Appliances |
| Source | Manufacturer guidance / material science |
| Last checked | 2026-06-29 |
Why
The Instant Pot inner pot is typically made of 304 (18/8) stainless steel, which is dishwasher safe. The high heat and alkaline detergents in a dishwasher do not damage stainless steel, but they can cause discoloration or a rainbow tint (oxidation) over time, which is cosmetic and not functional. However, the silicone sealing ring absorbs odors and can degrade faster with repeated dishwasher cycles, leading to seal failure and pressure loss. The lid contains a float valve, anti-block shield, and steam release handle with small parts that may warp or get clogged. Instant Pot's official care guide recommends hand washing the lid and sealing ring, while the stainless steel inner pot is top-rack dishwasher safe. Non-stick coated inner pots (e.g., Duo Nova) should never go in the dishwasher because the coating will break down and peel. For stainless steel pots, the main risk is cosmetic clouding or etching from harsh detergents, but the pot remains functional.
How do you wash Instant Pot Inner Pot?
- Remove the silicone sealing ring from the lid and wash it separately by hand with mild soap and warm water.
- Wash the lid by hand using a soft sponge and dish soap, paying attention to the float valve and anti-block shield; rinse thoroughly.
- For the stainless steel inner pot, scrape off any food residue and place it on the top rack of the dishwasher.
- Use a gentle dishwasher cycle (not heavy-duty) and avoid high-heat drying to minimize cosmetic discoloration.
- After the cycle, remove the inner pot and check for any stuck-on food; if needed, hand wash with a non-abrasive scrub.
- Dry the inner pot immediately with a soft cloth to prevent water spots.
- Reassemble the lid only after all parts are completely dry.
What happens if you put Instant Pot Inner Pot in the dishwasher?
If you put the entire Instant Pot (lid and inner pot) in the dishwasher, the silicone sealing ring will absorb food odors and may degrade faster, leading to a poor seal and potential pressure loss. After one wash, the ring might still function but could smell. After repeated washes, the ring may become brittle or misshapen, causing steam leaks. The lid's small parts (float valve, anti-block shield) can become clogged with detergent residue or warp from heat, compromising safety. The stainless steel inner pot may develop a rainbow tint or cloudy film from alkaline detergents, but this is cosmetic and does not affect cooking performance. Non-stick inner pots will show coating peeling after a few washes, rendering them unusable. Overall, the damage is gradual and mostly cosmetic for stainless steel, but functional for the sealing ring and lid components.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I put the Instant Pot lid in the dishwasher?
- No, the lid should always be hand washed. The dishwasher's heat and water pressure can damage the float valve, anti-block shield, and steam release mechanism, and the silicone gasket will degrade faster.
- What water temperature can the inner pot withstand?
- The stainless steel inner pot can withstand temperatures up to 500°F (260°C), well above dishwasher heat. However, sudden temperature changes (e.g., placing a hot pot in cold water) can cause warping.
- Will the stainless steel inner pot rust if washed in the dishwasher?
- No, 304 stainless steel is corrosion-resistant. However, if the pot has scratches or is exposed to high-chlorine detergents, it may develop small rust spots, which are cosmetic and can be removed with a stainless steel cleaner.
- How often should I replace the silicone sealing ring?
- Instant Pot recommends replacing the sealing ring every 12-18 months, or sooner if it becomes stretched, cracked, or fails to seal. Hand washing extends its life compared to dishwasher washing.
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Last updated 2026-06-29. General guidance — always check your product’s care label. How we verify · Dishwasher care guides.