Clean a grinder right after you use it, before fat and meat dry on. Ground meat spreads bacteria, so every part that touched meat needs washing and drying.
Steps
- Run bread through it. A slice or two of stale bread pushes out leftover meat and fat.
- Unplug and take it apart: ring, plate, knife, auger, head and tray.
- Soak in hot, soapy water and scrub plate holes with a small brush.
- Rinse and sanitize counters, boards and parts.
- Dry completely , right away. Carbon-steel knives and plates rust fast.
- Oil lightly with food-grade mineral oil and store plates and knives in a zip bag.
Dishwasher?
Check your manual. Stainless parts usually tolerate it; aluminum parts darken and pit in a dishwasher, and carbon-steel knives and plates rust. When in doubt, hand-wash.
The motor
Never submerge the motor housing. Wipe it with a damp cloth.
