Scaling Inside a Crock Pot

Lemon Juice

• Lemon juice is acidic enough to remove the scales on the inside of a Crock-Pot, particularly if the scales are due to hard water. Take two tablespoons of real lemon juice and pour this in the bottom of the crock. Add a little hot water and scrub the surface gently with a non-abrasive scrubbing pad. Rinse the crock out and use a soft cloth to dry it. If some of the scaling is still present, repeat this process until it is removed.

Vinegar

• Vinegar is another acidic natural cleaner that can be used to remove scales. If lemon juice has failed and the build-up is severe, vinegar will most likely work. Use 1/4-cup of apple cider vinegar and some hot water. Let this soak for a few minutes and then use a soft scouring pad to clean away the scales. Rinse out the crock and let it dry. The scales should be gone. If not, repeat and let the mixture soak a little longer.

Nonabrasive Cleaners

• Nonabrasive household cleaners can also be used on the inside of a crock pot. However, they should be rated for use with food appliances. A gentle dish soap will work on slight or newer scales. Use very hot water and a few squirts of this soap. Let it sit and then scrub the scales away. Other non abrasive cleaners include baking soda. Add a little vinegar for a chemical reaction to get rid of the scales.

Proper Cleaning Tools

• Crock-Pots may look durable, but the interiors can be easily scratched. Never use a metallic based scrubbing pad on your crock. Soft scrubbers and brushes will work best, even if they require a little more effort. Never use a harsh abrasive cleaner -- this is particularly true if you are putting your crock in the dishwasher. Make sure you are using a phosphate free dishwashing soap that is gentle.