Instant™ user manuals
Instant Pot® Duo™
Instant Pot® Duo™ Plus
Instant Pot® Duo™ SV
Instant Pot® Duo™ Evo Plus
Instant Pot® Duo Nova
Instant Pot® Duo Gourmet
Instant Pot® Lux™
Instant Pot® Max™
Instant Pot® Smart WiFi™
Instant Pot® Ultra™
Instant Pot® Viva™
Instant Pot® Duo Crisp™
Instant Pot® Duo Crisp & Air Fryer V1
Instant Pot® Pro Crisp™
Instant Pot® Pro Crisp™ Plus
Instant Pot® Pro Crisp Plus V1
Instant Pot® Air Fryer Lid
Safety mechanisms
Instant Pot® is designed with 10 Safety Mechanisms to eliminate many common errors which may cause harm or spoil food. The following Safety Mechanisms are applicable to: Lux 6-in-1, Duo 7-in-1, Duo Plus 9-in-1 and Smart Bluetooth.
- Steam Release – Releases excess pressure by venting steam through the steam release valve/handle.
- Anti-Block Shield – A stainless steel cover which prevents food particles from entering the steam release pipe, reducing the risk of blockages.
- Safety Lid Lock – When cooker is pressurized, the lid will automatically lock to prevent opening the cooker. Do not attempt to force the lid open while the cooker is pressurized.
- Lid Position Detection – If the lid is not in a safe position for pressure cooking, the cooker will not allow cooking to begin.
- Automatic Temperature Control – Regulates heating to ensure the inner pot remains within a safe temperature range, based on the program.
- Overheat (Burn) Protection – Overheating may occur if:
• After Sautéing, inner pot has not been deglazed— food is stuck to the bottom
• The pressure cooker is being operated without sufficient cooking liquid
• The inner pot is not making full contact with the heating element
• The inner pot encounters a heat distribution issue, such as when starch accumulates on the bottom of the inner pot.
The cooker will reduce the risk of burning food by lowering the heat output. - Automatic Pressure Control – Maintains working pressure levels. Suspends heating if pressure exceeds pressure level limits.
- Electrical fuse – Cuts off power if the electrical current exceeds safety limits.
- Thermal Fuse – Cuts off power if the internal temperature exceeds safety limits.
- Leaky Lid Detection – If there is steam leakage from the lid (such as, sealing ring not installed, or steam release handle being in “Venting” and not “Sealing” position) the cooker will not pressurize. Loss of steam may cause food to burn. The cooker monitors the pre-heating time and lowers heat output if working pressure is not reached within 40 minutes.
Instant Pot® is designed with 11 Safety Mechanisms to eliminate many common errors which may cause harm or spoil food. The following Safety Mechanisms are applicable to the Ultra Series.
- Steam Release – Releases excess pressure by venting steam through the steam release valve/handle.
- Anti-Block Shield – A stainless steel cover which prevents food particles from entering the steam release pipe, reducing the risk of blockages.
- Safety Lid Lock – When cooker is pressurized, the lid will automatically lock to prevent opening the cooker. Do not attempt to force the lid open while the cooker is pressurized.
- Lid Position Detection – If the lid is not in a safe position for pressure cooking, the cooker will not allow cooking to begin.
- Automatic Temperature Control – Regulates heating to ensure the inner pot remains within a safe temperature range, based on the program.
- Overheat (Burn) Protection – Overheating may occur if:
• After Sautéing, inner pot has not been deglazed— food is stuck to the bottom
• The pressure cooker is being operated without sufficient cooking liquid
• The inner pot is not making full contact with the heating element
• The inner pot encounters a heat distribution issue, such as when starch accumulates on the bottom of the inner pot.
The cooker will reduce the risk of burning food by lowering the heat output. - Automatic Pressure Control – Maintains working pressure levels. Suspends heating if pressure exceeds pressure level limits.
- Electrical Fuse – Cuts off power if the electrical current exceeds safety limits.
- Thermal Fuse – Cuts off power if the internal temperature exceeds safety limits.
- Leaky Lid Detection – If there is steam leakage from the lid (such as, sealing ring not installed, or steam release handle being in “Venting” and not “Sealing” position) the cooker will not pressurize. Loss of steam may cause food to burn. The cooker monitors the pre-heating time and lowers heat output if working pressure is not reached within 40 minutes.
- Quick Release Button – For safer handling of steam release, press the “Quick Release Button” on the lid to depressurize the cooker. It automatically resets to the “Sealing” position when opening or closing the lid.
Instant Pot Smart WiFi is designed with 11 Safety Mechanisms to eliminate many common errors which may cause harm or spoil food.
- Steam Release – Releases excess pressure by venting steam through the steam release valve/handle.
- Anti-Block Shield – A stainless steel cover which prevents food particles from entering the steam release pipe, reducing the risk of blockages.
- Safety Lid Lock – When cooker is pressurized, the lid will automatically lock to prevent opening the cooker. Do not attempt to force the lid open while the cooker is pressurized.
- Lid Position Detection – If the lid is not in a safe position for pressure cooking, the cooker will not allow cooking to begin.
- Automatic Temperature Control – Regulates heating to ensure the inner pot remains within a safe temperature range, based on the program.
- Overheat (Burn) Protection – Overheating may occur if:
• After Sautéing, inner pot has not been deglazed— food is stuck to the bottom
• The pressure cooker is being operated without sufficient cooking liquid
• The inner pot is not making full contact with the heating element
• The inner pot encounters a heat distribution issue, such as when starch accumulates on the bottom of the inner pot.
The cooker will reduce the risk of burning food by lowering the heat output. - Automatic Pressure Control – Maintains working pressure levels. Suspends heating if pressure exceeds pressure level limits.
- Electrical fuse – Cuts off power if the electrical current exceeds safety limits.
- Thermal Fuse – Cuts off power if the internal temperature exceeds safety limits.
- Leaky Lid Detection – If there is steam leakage from the lid (such as, sealing ring not installed, or steam release handle being in “Venting” and not “Sealing” position) the cooker will not pressurize. Loss of steam may cause food to burn. The cooker monitors the pre-heating time and lowers heat output if working pressure is not reached within 40 minutes.
- Self-Diagnostic – Scans components for errors. Displays error codes on-screen.
Instant Pot Max is designed with 13 Safety Mechanisms to eliminate many common errors which may cause harm or spoil food. Max 13 Safety Mechanisms are:
- Steam Release – Releases excess pressure by venting steam through the steam release valve/handle.
- Safety Lid Lock – When cooker is pressurized, the lid will automatically lock to prevent opening the cooker. Do not attempt to force the lid open while the cooker is pressurized.
- Wireless Lid Detection – Detects if the lid is present or not, as required by the selected program.
- Lid Position Detection – If the lid is not in a safe position for pressure cooking, the cooker will not allow cooking to begin.
- Overheat (Burn) Protection – Overheating may occur if:
• After Sautéing, inner pot has not been deglazed— food is stuck to the bottom
• The pressure cooker is being operated without sufficient cooking liquid
• The inner pot is not making full contact with the heating element
• The inner pot encounters a heat distribution issue, such as when starch accumulates on the bottom of the inner pot.
The cooker will reduce the risk of burning food by lowering the heat output. - Anti-Block Shield – A stainless steel cover which prevents food particles from entering the steam release pipe, reducing the risk of blockages.
- Automatic Pressure Control – Maintains working pressure levels. Suspends heating if pressure exceeds pressure level limits.
- Pressure Indicator – Indicator on control panel that illuminates when pressure is detected in the cooker. Do not attempt to force the lid open while the indicator is lit.
- Automatic Temperature Control – Regulates heating to ensure the inner pot remains within a safe temperature range, based on the program.
- Leaky Lid Detection – If there is steam leakage from the lid (such as, sealing ring not installed, or steam release handle being in “Venting” and not “Sealing” position) the cooker will not pressurize. Loss of steam may cause food to burn. The cooker monitors the pre-heating time and lowers heat output if working pressure is not reached within 40 minutes.
- Self-Diagnostic – Scans components for errors. Displays error codes on-screen.
- Thermal Fuse – Cuts off power if the internal temperature exceeds safety limits.
- Electrical Fuse – Cuts off power if the electrical current exceeds safety limits.
Care & cleaning
The inner pot of the cooker (the stainless steel cooking pot), the sealing ring, the lid, and the steam rack are all dishwasher safe—yet another way in which your cooker makes cooking and cleanup extremely easy. Here is an overview of how best to care for and clean your Instant Pot®.
Prior to cleaning, ensure the cooker is unplugged and has cooled down.
Cooker Base and Heating Element
The cooker base is home to the microprocessor and the heating element essential to cooking.
Do Not Place in the Dishwasher! If the cooker base gets wet, allow it to dry completely. Contact the Customer Care team https://www.instantpot.com/support/.
Clean the exterior of the cooker base with a damp cloth. You can use a slightly damp cloth to clean the inside of the cooker. It is however, important that the cooker be kept dry.
If you need to clean the area around the lip of the cooker, use a damp cloth or an old toothbrush to clean the edges.
Stainless Steel Inner Pot & Steam Rack
The inner pot and the steam rack are made of sturdy, food-grade stainless steel (304 – 18/8) and are entirely dishwasher safe. For the most part, you can keep the inner pot cleaned just as you would clean any stainless steel pot—by hand washing or the dishwasher.
Should the inner pot develop harmless water stains, non-abrasive scouring cleanser, made especially for cooking pots, brings back the original shine.
You can also periodically clean the inner pot by placing 1 cup of white vinegar in the bottom of the inner pot. Allow it to rest for 5 minutes, and then pour out the vinegar and rinse.
Removing Bluish Marks from Your Stainless Steel Inner Pot
Instant Pot’s inner pot (cooking pot) is stainless steel, food grade 304 (18/8) with no chemical coating. It is durable and will retain its appearance for years to come with proper care.
With stainless steel cookware it is not uncommon for a bluish or “rainbow” discoloration to appear on the inside of the pot, and Instant Pot’s inner pot is no exception. Minerals or salt in the food and water are the cause for this discoloration. It may be easily removed by using a non-abrasive stainless steel cleaner, which will not only remove the marks it will help to retain the original brightness.
Another option is to cover the bottom with white vinegar. Allow the vinegar to sit for 5 minutes, remove, and rinse the inner pot. The discoloration marks should be removed completely.
For “White Hard Water” stains, they can be removed with a damp sponge soaked in vinegar or lemon.
We recommend avoiding steel wool, as it will scratch the surface. For additional information, verify “eHow” or “British Stainless Steel Association”.
The images illustrate an Instant Pot® inner pot after an 8-month period of regular use and the results after using white vinegar to clean the stains.
Lid
The lid is top-rack dishwasher safe. It is best to remove the sealing ring and the anti-block shield so that the lid may be thoroughly cleaned. One way to prevent the lid from retaining odors is to place it upside down on the pot until it has completely dried or you are ready to use it. Verify the steam release valve and float valve, and make sure there is no food or other debris that would block them, and prevent your cooker from coming to pressure
Anti-block Shield
The anti-block shield underneath the lid should be removed and cleaned after each use, especially following the preparation of foods that may splatter.
To remove, using your thumb, push the side of the anti-block shield towards the lid rim and lift up. It may take a little effort, but the anti-block shield should pop out.
You can now wash the shield with warm, soapy water. Rinse, wipe dry with a soft cloth, and place back in position when dry. To position the anti-block shield in place, push down.
Sealing Ring
The sealing ring is made of high-quality, heat-resistant silicone. It can be hand-washed with soapy water or placed in the dishwasher. Allow the ring to dry completely before inserting back into the lid. Ensure the sealing ring is positioned in the lid after every wash, and that it is securely in place before you start cooking.
The sealing ring is critical in the functioning of your cooker. Inspect it carefully after it is washed. Any sign of cracking or other damage, replace the sealing ring. Replace only with Genuine Instant Pot® sealing rings, using other brands may void your Instant Pot® Warranty.
As silicone may pick-up food odors during cooking you may wish to have one sealing ring for savory and another for sweet foods.
Under normal conditions it should be fine for 18 – 24 months. If you notice cracks, leaking or deformation in the sealing ring, it should be replaced immediately. However, the sealing ring is porous and may absorb odors and become discolored. To avoid discoloration and odors, you may wish to change the sealing ring every 6 – 12 months.
Condensation Collector
The condensation collector is to be removed and hand washed periodically. Allow to dry before replacing.
To Summarize
All parts of the Instant Pot® with the exception of the cooker base are dishwasher safe. This includes the stainless steel inner pot, the lid, the sealing ring, and the steam rack. The cooker base must be kept dry, and can be wiped down with a damp cloth when necessary. The anti-block shield should be washed after each use and re-installed.
Allow to cool before cleaning, and dry thoroughly before storing.
Never clean with harsh chemical detergents, abrasive powders or scouring pads.
Removable Element Cover. Hand Wash only. Wash after each use in hot water with mild dish soap. Dry thoroughly before attaching to main body.
Main Body. Damp Wash only. Wipe body and display as needed with a soft, barely damp cloth or sponge.
Element. Damp Wash only. Wipe as needed with hot water and mild dish soap or vinegar. Dry thoroughly before replacing removable element cover.
WARNING! Do not immerse main body in water and do not attempt to cycle through dishwasher. Do not submerge power cord at any time. Do not wet prongs of detachable cord.
Clean blender, parts, and accessories after each use. Do not use harsh chemicals, scoring pads or other abrasive cleaners.
Cleaning Method | Part | Notes |
Dishwasher Safe | Lid & Lid Cap | Remove lid cap from lid when cleaning.
Remove black silicone seal from lid periodically for cleaning. |
150mL / 5oz Measuring Cup | If dishwashing, place in top rack. | |
Food Tamper | If dishwashing, place in top rack. | |
Strainer Bag | Turn inside out when cleaning, and spread open to dry. | |
Cleaning Brush | Use to clean under blades in pitcher | |
Hand Wash Only | Glass Pitcher | Do not wet bottom side of pitcher.
Ensure bottom of pitcher is dry before placing it on blender base. Do not store food in the pitcher. |
Blender Base | Unplug and wipe clean with a soft, damp cloth.
When in storage or not in use, do not fold the power cord. |
Pulse Cleaning
Use Pulse/Clean to remove superficial food debris and residue from your pitcher.
- Remove the lid from the pitcher. Fill the pitcher with 1000mL / 34oz hot water. Secure the lid to the pitcher.
- Press Pulse/Clean to lift the majority of food contents.
- Discard dirty water after the last Pulse cycle has completed.
- Fill the pitcher with 1000mL / 34oz quart hot water and a squirt of dish soap, and press Pulse/Clean. Discard dirty water after the last cycle has completed.
- Rinse with warm, clear water.
Deep Cleaning
Minerals in water may deposit at the bottom of the pitcher. Periodic deep cleaning will ensure the longevity of the blender.
- Add 1 cup (250mL / 8oz) of white vinegar or citric acid, and 1 cup (250mL / 8oz) warm water to the pitcher.
- Allow the solution to sit for at least an hour, then press the Pulse/Clean key
- Empty the solution from the pitcher and rinse with warm, clear water.
For stubborn stains, unplug the blender and add 1 cup (250mL / 8oz) of white vinegar to the pitcher, then scrub with the cleaning brush. Repeat this process as necessary.
How to pair an Instant Pot® with a mobile device
You’ll only need to pair your device once, then it will remember your Instant Pot®. You may control multiple appliances from the same device.
Current App Version:
2.3.0 (June 2019)
Current Firmware Version:
1.0017 (June 2019) – required for Sous Vide Instant Start function
Check below tab ‘Using the App – New Firmware Update’ (Note: your Smart WiFi needs to be left plugged in and connected for a while to receive new Firmware notification.)
Supported Operating Systems:
iPhone and iPad: iOS 10, 11, 12, 13
Android™: 5.1, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10