How to Use Your Blender Properly and Efficiently

Blenders have become a necessity for most kitchens. Can you remember how many days a week you take your blender out? Probably every day. The reason behind this is its convenience of use and its utility in so many of your blending tasks. Such a useful piece of equipment if used properly will enhance its performance in addition to increasing its life. Here are some tips for you to follow:

1. Not all blenders are designed to crush ice. Unless the instruction manual clearly says that your appliance can crush ice, use it to blend only soft foods. Blenders that can crush ice have specifically designed stainless steel blades and a high motor power. If you use your blender for hard foods when it is not designed for the purpose you will be putting the motor and the blades at risk.
2. Do not let the machine run for long periods without breaks. Pulse is usually sufficient for most blending tasks. If, however, the blending task requires extended operation as in the case of making nut butter, run it for a couple of seconds then turn it off. Let the blender rest for a couple of seconds before turning it on again. Running it for extended periods overworks the motor and may risk it of burning.
3. Always secure the lid before turning the blender on. If you have to add liquids while blending, add it through the small opening in the middle of the lid. If you run the machine without the lid, food splattering will create a big mess. Also remember to always hold the lid down by your hand while blending to prevent it from coming off while the machine is running. This too will result in a big mess and extensive clean up!
4. It is always a good idea to cut fruits and/or vegetables into small pieces before adding them to the blender. This will result in quicker and more uniform blending as well as prevent the motor from being overworked.
5. When adding your ingredients to the blender, first add the liquid ingredients then the solid ingredients. Add ice at the end. This sequence will assist in the blending process.
6. Do not fill the jug of the blender to more than two-third its capacity. Leave some space for the ingredients to expand. If you fill it more than two-third, the blended mixture might spill over. If you have larger quantities of food, blend them in batches.
7. Do not blend hot liquids unless your blender comes with that functionality. Read the instruction manual to find out if it does. If your blender can blend hot liquids, leave the feeder cap (in the center of the lid) open when blending hot liquids to allow steam to escape. This prevents pressure from building up inside the blender. Only fill the jar half full when blending hot liquids to allow greater space for expansion and start with the lowest speed making your way to higher speeds if your blender comes with multiple speed options.
8. When changing between speeds, turn off the machine and let it stop completely before switching to a new speed.
9. Clean it properly after each use. easiest way to clean it is to add water and a drop of some mild dish washing liquid to the blender jar and pulse it with the lid on for a couple of seconds. Pour this mixture out and rinse it thoroughly.
10. Never immerse the blender base in water. To clean it, simply wipe it with a damp cloth. To remove stubborn stains, add a drop of some mild dish washing liquid to the cloth before wiping it.
11. Remember to dry it completely before storing it. This will prevent bacterial growth.

Follow these simple tips along with the ones provided in the instruction manual of your appliance to get the most out of your blender and to keep it running smoothly for years to come. Good quality blenders should last you at least a couple of years before wearing out. This is only possible through proper handling and care of your blender.