Washing rice directly in the inner pot of an electric rice cooker may seem convenient, but it can actually cause problems for both your appliance and your health. Many people are unaware of the risks.

Why You Should Avoid Washing Rice in the Rice Cooker Pot

Cooking rice is a daily habit in many Vietnamese households, and electric rice cookers have become indispensable kitchen appliances. They make cooking rice easy, fast, and convenient. By habit, many people pour rice directly into the cooker’s inner pot and rinse it with water before cooking. While this method is convenient, some experts warn that it can scratch the inner surface, reduce the pot’s durability, and even negatively affect health.

A survey conducted by the Japanese program Hodori Shinichi Morning Show interviewed seven electric rice cooker manufacturers in Japan. Six out of seven brands stated that if the rice cooker is a high-quality, genuine product, it is generally safe to wash rice in the pot. However, if the cooker is a lower-quality model, washing rice directly inside can cause the non-stick coating to peel off. This not only affects the appearance of the pot but may also give the rice a metallic taste and impact your health.

Some manufacturers noted that while washing rice in the inner pot is not inherently harmful, for long-term durability and to maintain the pot’s appearance, it is better to use a separate strainer or bowl for washing rice before transferring it to the cooker.

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Practical Recommendation

• For lower-quality rice cookers: Avoid washing rice in the inner pot. Washing in the pot may cause scratches and peeling of the non-stick surface.

• For high-quality rice cookers: It is usually safe, but to ensure longevity and prevent non-stick damage, using a separate strainer or bowl is recommended.

• Additional benefit: Washing rice outside the cooker allows you to remove small stones, husks, or impurities more easily.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using a Rice Cooker

1. Not Drying the Inner Pot Properly

After washing, many people place the inner pot back into the cooker and turn it on immediately, even if the exterior is still wet. This can damage the rice cooker. Water on the outside of the pot may contact the heating plate, increasing the risk of short circuits, sparks, or electrical leakage.

Tip: Always dry the exterior and bottom of the inner pot completely before placing it back into the cooker.

2. Using Metal Utensils to Scoop Rice

Modern rice cookers have a non-stick coating to prevent rice from sticking. To preserve this coating:

• Use only heat-resistant plastic, silicone, or wooden utensils.

• Avoid metal spoons or sharp utensils, which can scratch the surface and reduce the durability of the pot.

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Conclusion

Washing rice directly in the rice cooker’s inner pot may seem like a minor convenience, but it can reduce the life of your appliance and potentially affect the taste and safety of your food, especially with lower-quality cookers.

By using a separate bowl or strainer to rinse rice and taking care to dry the inner pot and avoid metal utensils, you can keep your rice cooker in excellent condition for years while enjoying perfectly cooked, safe, and delicious rice every day.