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ZOJIRUSHI CENTRAL

Hello. We are Zojirushi.

Here’s how to keep it going. (Maintenance)

Yes, our rice cookers need your TLC; as does any high performance appliance. Where do you start, and how? Have you noticed things that are odd about how it’s working, that weren’t happening before? This section is all about taking care of your favorite friend in the kitchen.

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Cleaning

Outer Body
Wipe the outside with a soft dry cloth to keep clean. We design our rice cookers to be streamlined in shape, so there aren’t many hard to reach areas.
Outer Lid
The inside of the lid is often overlooked. Make sure the area is clean after every use. A damp cloth will take care of rice remnants, starch marks, etc.
Inner Pot
If rice grains harden and get stuck inside the inner pot, fill it with water until the rice softens. A soft sponge and rinsing with water will take care of it.
Steam Vent
The steam vent is an important part that releases excess steam during cooking and needs to stay ventilated. Some come apart for easy cleaning.
Inner Lid
Remove it after every use and soak it in water to prevent rice from sticking. Wash with a soft sponge and dry thoroughly before replacing.
Inner Lid Gasket
This seal keeps the steam in, during the cooking process and the keep warm stage. Build-up of debris may cause odors in the rice, so keep it clean.
Rice Spatula
Rice that is left on the spatula will harden and become difficult to wash. Simply soak in warm water for a bit to soften the rice—it’ll be easier to clean.
Measuring Cups
Cups are often stored inside the bag or container of rice. They may get foggy and become hard to see the measurement lines, so wash the cups regularly too.
Other
Some of our Pressure IH Rice Cooker models are equipped with a self-cleaning mode, which effectively removes stubborn odors. If you have one, give it a try!

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Caring

Basic Care
All the parts can be cleaned with a soft sponge and dish soap. Do not use metal scouring pads, stiff brushes, cleansers or vinegar—they can scratch, discolor, deform, crack or corrode.
Side Sensors
Make sure these sensors are clean and free of dirt or debris. Be sure to wipe any moisture or rice stuck to the outside of the inner pot, before setting it back into the cooker.
Air Port
The air intake/exhaust port located at the bottom of the rice cooker must be clear for it to function properly. Clear out any obstruction with a vacuum cleaner.
Hidden Places
There are some areas that may not be obvious to your eye, like the part where the steam vent connects, or the recess where the power cord is. Make sure these areas are kept clean too.
Wear and Tear
Be aware of any hairline cracks or deformities in the various parts that make up your rice cooker. You may need to replace them to keep your cooker performing like it should.
Storage
Are you keeping your rice cooker in a location that gets high humidity or too much sun? These conditions can cause mold or excessive wear in a short amount of time.

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Replacing

Inner Lid Gasket
If you see steam leaking from around the rice cooker as it’s cooking, replace the gasket on the inner lid.
Inner Lid Gasket
If the inner lid gasket loses its elasticity or begins to harden, it’s time to replace it.
Inner Lid Gasket
If the inner lid gasket loses its elasticity or begins to harden, it’s time to replace it.
Inner Lid Gasket
If the inner lid gasket starts to discolor or develop dark mold spots that cannot be removed, it’s time to replace.
Steam Vent Cap
If the steam vent cap gets too dirty, clogged or even difficult to remove, it’s time to replace it.
Inner Pan
If you should drop or bump the inner pan and cause dents or deform the shape, you’ll need to replace it.
Inner Pan
If the bottom of the inner pan is burnt after cooking or if the rice starts to stick to the insides, it’s time to replace it.
Customer Service
If there are no issues with worn or damaged parts but rice continues to cook bad, please contact Customer Service or your nearest authorized Zojirushi repair center.
Zojirushi Shop
Parts can be purchased online from the Zojirushi Shop. If you cannot find what you’re looking for or have questions, please feel free to contact us.