Cleaning your sous vide equipment is a very important step in ensuring that your food is cooked properly and safely. If you don't clean your equipment, it can become clogged with food particles and bacteria, which can cause problems with the flavor and safety of your food.
In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about cleaning your sous vide equipment! We'll provide tips on how to clean different parts of the machine, as well as how to sanitize it. So, whether you're a new sous vide cook or an experienced one, make sure to read this guide on cleaning your equipment!
How Often Should I Clean My Sous Vide Equipment?
To best maintain the cleanliness and quality of your cooking, your sous vide equipment will always benefit from a quick clean after each use.
You do not have to deep clean the equipment, but a quick wipe-down with damp paper towels or a clean rag will prolong the need for in-depth cleaning.
As you use your equipment keep an eye out for any buildup of gunk such as mineral and calcium deposits.
If there is a break or puncture in your sous vide bags or the water bath has been contaminated, we recommend a deep clean to maintain basic food safety in the kitchen.
The Sous Vide Cleaning Process
Whether you are using an all-in-one unit or an immersion circulator the cleaning process is pretty straightforward. Just remember to unplug your equipment and wipe it down with a damp, sterile/clean rag or cloth.
Carefully wipe down the inside and outside of your equipment and allow it to dry.
Depending on what equipment you are using, the manufacturer will have specific directions and guidelines for removing food particles. This may require some basic disassembling and wiping down sensitive parts of the machine.
If you happen to use an immersion circulator do not clean the head by submerging it or rinsing it in water. This could damage or break the device.
Vacuum Sealers
While vacuum sealing is one of the most useful tools in the kitchen in general, properly cleaning the equipment is key in ensuring food safety and quality. Any issues with the tray can cause spoiled food and bacterial growth. You should be cleaning your vacuum sealer after every use.
Disclaimer: Always unplug and turn off any devices before starting the cleaning process.
The most important part to clean is the drip tray. Luckily most modern vacuum sealing equipment has drip trays that are dishwasher safe to speed up the cleaning process. If this isn't the case for your equipment, use normal cleaning protocols with hot water and mild antibacterial soap. Allow all components to dry before putting things back together for storage to prevent mold and mildew.
Chamber-type of vacuum sealers can be wiped down externally with a clean wet cloth and mild soaps. Clean the vacuum chamber with another clean cloth and food-safe sanitizer. Finally, when cleaning the vacuum hose submerge it in hot, soapy water for a little bit. Thoroughly rinse and allow it to completely dry before storing it or using it again.
If you are looking to learn more about vacuum sealers, read our complete guide to vacuum sealing and vacuum sealing equipment.
Follow The Manufacturer Guidelines
Always read and follow the manufacturer's guidelines before cleaning your equipment. Every piece of equipment is different and may have special instructions that must be followed to avoid damage or breaking anything.
While general cleaning tips stay the same for most equipment, always pay attention to the guidelines set by the producer.
Enjoy Your Clean Equipment!
Now that you know what you need to do to keep your sous vide equipment clean - enjoy your cooking! It's a basic process that can be easy to overthink, by following this guide you can be confident in your kitchen equipment efficacy and safety.
Shop Sous Vide Equipment With Attivo!
Attivo Culinary has all your sous vide needs & more! Check out a few of our below items, and shop for sous vide equipment!
- Sous Vide Starter Kit
- Perfecta, Sous Vide Water Oven
- Home Chef Sous Vide Start Kit
- Imersa Tower, Sous Vide Immersion Circulator