Quck answer
To clean white film out of a ceramic crock pot, follow these steps:
1. Mix equal parts water and white vinegar in the crock pot.
2. Let the mixture soak for about 30 minutes to loosen the film.
3. Scrub the pot using a soft sponge or brush to remove the film.
4. Rinse the pot thoroughly with warm water.
5. If the film persists, make a paste of baking soda and water and apply it to the affected areas.
6. Let the paste sit for 15 minutes, then scrub and rinse again.
7. Dry the crock pot completely before using it again.
Regular cleaning with mild dish soap and warm water can help prevent the white film from forming in the future.
While using a ceramic Crock-Pot is convenient for cooking various dishes, it is possible for a film or residue to develop that cannot be easily washed away with soap and water. The lighter the color of the Crock-Pot liner, the more noticeable the white residue becomes. However, this film is simply a deposit of minerals left behind from evaporating water in the Crock-Pot. The solution to removing it is regular household vinegar.
Removing the Film from the Crock-Pot
If you have already washed the ceramic Crock-Pot but there is still a white or chalky residue inside the ceramic insert, it is time to use a treatment that will remove the minerals. Wet a sponge and pour a tablespoon or so of vinegar onto it. Use the vinegar solution to wipe down the inside of the Crock-Pot.
For more stubborn film, undiluted vinegar is useful. Spray white vinegar directly onto the mineral spots or film inside the Crock-Pot. After approximately 10 minutes, wipe away the vinegar with a clean, damp sponge. Rinse the Crock-Pot insert in the sink and allow it to air-dry. If your home has hard water, air-drying kitchenware may leave mineral deposits or water spots. If this is the case, towel-dry the Crock-Pot insert instead.
To prevent white film in the future, rinse and wipe the Crock-Pot after each use, even if you do not have time to wash it immediately. Avoid leaving water inside the Crock-Pot for extended periods of time, as even plain tap water can cause film or residue to form.
Using Steam and Vinegar
If there is still some white residue remaining after wiping the crock insert with vinegar, a steam cleaning can help eliminate the rest of the film. Pour an inch of distilled water into the Crock-Pot. While tap water can be used, it may result in more mineral deposits. Add 1/2 cup of white vinegar for a small cooker or 1 cup for a slow cooker that holds 5 quarts or more.
Turn the Crock-Pot on low heat with the lid on. After 30 minutes, check if steam has formed on the inside of the lid. If not, increase the heat to medium. After a total of 1 hour of heating, turn off the Crock-Pot. Once the liquid has cooled down enough to touch, use a sponge or dishcloth dipped into the liquid to wipe down the inside of the slow cooker. The remaining liquid can be used to wipe mineral deposits off chrome fixtures in the kitchen.
Using Baking Soda
A bubbling reaction between vinegar and baking soda is effective in removing stubborn film and cooked-on food residue. Add an inch of water, 1/2 cup white vinegar, and 1/2 cup baking soda to the slow cooker, pouring the baking soda slowly to avoid overflowing. Place the lid on the slow cooker and set it to low heat. After an hour, wipe the inside of the slow cooker with the foamy solution.
For stubborn baked-on residue, sprinkle a little more baking soda or even table salt onto the sponge and use it as an abrasive to help remove the residue. Dispose of the liquid in the sink and wash the ceramic insert by hand with soap and water or in the dishwasher.
