Electric smokers are a popular choice for home chefs who love the flavor of smoked meats but don’t want to deal with the hassle of charcoal or propane smokers.
But even though electric smokers are low-maintenance, they still need to be cleaned on a regular basis to ensure that they continue to operate at peak performance. In this blog post, we’ll show you how to clean Masterbuilt smoker.
You can also check our articles on How to Make Masterbuilt Smoked Ribs, How to Get Bark on Brisket in Electric Smoker, How Long to Smoke a 6 Pound Brisket, How to Make Prime Rib in Electric Smoker, How to Use Pit Boss Electric Smoker, and How to Make Electric Smoker Pork Roast.
Should you Clean your Masterbuilt Smoker?
The answer is yes! Even though electric smokers don’t produce as much soot and smoke as charcoal or propane smokers, they can still accumulate grime and grease over time.
If left uncleaned, this grime can prevent the smoker from operating at peak efficiency and may even cause it to break down prematurely.
How Often to Clean the Masterbuilt Smoker?
It’s generally recommended that you clean your electric smoker at least once a month or more often if you use it frequently. If you live in an area with higher humidity levels, you may need to clean it more often to prevent corrosion.
Must you Clean the Masterbuilt Smoker Before First Use?
Any new appliance comes with a set of instructions to follow, and the same goes for the Masterbuilt smoker. Right on the front of the packaging, it says quite clearly that you must clean the smoker before first use.
But why is this? Surely it can’t be necessary to give the smoker a thorough clean before you’ve even used it once? Well, actually, there are a few good reasons why you should take the time to clean your Masterbuilt smoker before using it for the first time.
First of all, it’s important to remove any residue that may have been left behind from the manufacturing process. This is especially important if your smoker is made from stainless steel, as any traces of grease or oil could potentially cause problems with food adhering to the surface later on.
Secondly, cleaning the smoker will also get rid of any dust or debris that may have accumulated inside during storage. And finally, giving the smoker a good clean before you use it will help to ensure that it functions correctly and gives you the best possible results when smoking food.
What is the Best Way to Clean a Smoker?
There are several ways that you can clean your electric smoker, but we recommend using one of the following methods:
With Vinegar
Vinegar is a natural degreaser that can be used to clean your smoker without harming the finish or leaving behind any harsh chemicals.
Simply mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle and use it to mist down the inside of your smoker. Then, use a sponge or scrub brush to remove any stubborn grime. Rinse well with water and dry with a clean towel.
With Dish Soap
Dish soap is another effective way to clean your smoker. Simply mix dish soap and water in a bucket and use it to scrub down the inside of your smoker. Thoroughly rinse with water and dry using a clean towel.
With Oven Cleaner
Oven cleaner is a strong degreaser that can be used on tough buildup inside your smoker. However, oven cleaner is also quite harsh, so be sure to use gloves and ventilation when using this method.
Simply spray oven cleaner on the affected areas and let it sit for several minutes before scrubbing away with a sponge or brush. Make sure to rinse thoroughly and use a clean towel to dry.
With Degreaser
Degreaser is another strong cleaning solution that can be used on tough buildup inside your smoker. Although a degreaser is an effective cleaning solution, it is also harsh. To protect your hands, be sure to wear gloves while using this product.
Additionally, make sure the area is well-ventilated to avoid respiratory irritation. For best results, spray degreaser on the affected areas and wait a few minutes before using a sponge or brush to scrub it off. Thoroughly rinse the area with water and dry it off using a clean towel.
Follow the User Manual
In addition to the above cleaning methods, it’s also important to follow the user manual for your specific model smoker. The user manual will have specific instructions on how to clean and maintain your smoker.
Some manufacturers have specific instructions for how to care for their products, so it’s important to follow those guidelines in order to avoid voiding your warranty or damaging your smoker.
Equipment Needed for Cleaning your Masterbuilt Smoker
When it comes to cleaning your Masterbuilt smoker, you won’t need any special equipment. A few basic cleaning supplies will do the trick. Here’s what you’ll need:
– Vinegar, dish soap, oven cleaner, or degreaser
– Water
– A spray bottle, bucket, or sponge
– A scrub brush or sponge
– A clean towel
– Gloves (optional)
Let the Smoker Cool Down if you just Finished Using it
Before you start cleaning your smoker, it’s important to let it cool down if you’ve just finished using it. This will help prevent any injuries from happening. Once the smoker has cooled down, you can begin cleaning it.
Cleaning the Interior of your Masterbuilt Smoker
The interior of your smoker is where you’ll find the most buildup. This is because it’s where the food is cooked, and the smoke accumulates. To clean the interior of your smoker, follow these steps:
Cover your Work Area
First things first, you’ll want to cover your work area with a drop cloth or old towels. This will help protect your surfaces from any debris or water that might come off of the smoker during the cleaning process.
Remove the Ash from the Chip Tray or Smoker Box
Next, you will need to remove the ash from the chip tray or smoker box. You can do this by gently tapping it on the side of a garbage can or using a vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment. Be sure to dispose of the ash in a safe place where it will not be able to start a fire.
Remove Shelves, Water Pan, Drip Pan, and Clean them
Once the ash is removed, you can remove the shelves, water pan, drip pan, and any other removable parts from the smoker. These should be washed in hot soapy water and then rinsed well.
If any of these parts are looking especially dirty, you can soak them overnight in a solution of 1 part vinegar to 3 parts water before washing them.
Rub Down the Sides and Bottom of your Smoker
Once all of the removable parts have been cleaned, you can focus on cleaning the sides and bottom of your smoker. You can do this with a damp rag and some soapy water.
If there are any stubborn stains, you can use a soft scrub brush to get them off. Be sure to rinse away all traces of soap before moving on to the next step.
Cleaning the Outside of your Masterbuilt Smoker
The outside of your smoker is exposed to the elements and can get just as dirty as the inside. To clean the outside of your smoker, follow these steps:
Use a Mild Soap
Using mild soap and a damp cloth, wipe down the entire exterior of your smoker. Be sure to pay special attention to the door seal and any other areas that may have come into contact with food.
If there are any stubborn stains, you can use a soft-bristled brush to remove them. Once you have finished cleaning, rinse off your smoker with clean water and dry it thoroughly with a clean towel.
Use Glass or Stainless Steel Cleaner if needed
If your smoker is looking a little bit lackluster, you can use glass or stainless steel cleaner to brighten it up. Just be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, so you don’t damage the finish.
Clean the Glass Door
Next, focus on cleaning the glass door. This is important because it’s what allows you to see inside the smoker while you’re cooking. To clean the glass door, you can use a glass cleaner and a soft cloth.
Be sure to wipe down the inside and outside of the door. If there is any stubborn dirt or debris, you can use a soft-bristled brush to remove it.
Reassemble the Smoker
Once you have finished cleaning the inside and outside of your smoker, you can reassemble it. Be sure to put all of the removable parts back in their proper place. Once everything is back in its rightful spot, you can plug in your smoker and get ready to cook up some delicious food.
Oil your Grates (Optional)
If you want to prevent your grates from rusting, you can oil them after you have finished cleaning your smoker. To do this, simply wipe them down with a cloth that has been soaked in vegetable oil. Be sure to wipe off any excess oil, so it doesn’t smoke when you use your smoker.
How to Clean the Electric Smoker with Mold?
If your electric smoker has developed a case of mold, don’t panic—it’s not the end of the world (or your smoker). Here’s what you’ll need to do:
1. Heat Up with Boiling Water
Take a bowl of water and place it inside your smoker. Heat the water until it boils, then let it sit for 30 minutes to an hour. The steam will help to loosen the mold and make it easier to remove.
If you are waiting in the vicinity, please be sure to wear your protective mask. The mold spores can cause irritation in your eyes, lungs, and skin.
2. Cool and Scrape
After the allotted time has passed, remove the bowl of water from the smoker and allow it to cool so that you can safely handle it. Once it’s cooled down, use a spoon or other blunt object to scrape the mold off of the surfaces of your smoker.
Empty out the mold that you’ve scraped off and dispose of it properly.
3. Wipe with Cloth
Once you’ve removed all of the molds, you can wipe down the surfaces of your smoker with a damp cloth. Be sure to get rid of any mold spores that may be lingering.
4. Disinfect with Vinegar
To disinfect your smoker and get rid of any remaining mold spores, you can use a vinegar solution. To make this solution, mix equal parts water and white vinegar. Then, using a cloth or sponge, wipe down all of the surfaces of your smoker with the vinegar solution.
5. Dry Thoroughly
Once you’ve cleaned and disinfected your smoker, you need to make sure that it’s completely dry before using it. Mold can quickly grow in damp environments, so it’s important to make sure that your smoker is completely dry before using it.
You can use a clean towel to dry off your smoker, or you can place it in a well-ventilated area to air dry.
What to Avoid When Cleaning an Electric Smoker?
There are a few things that you’ll want to avoid when cleaning your electric smoker.
Check your Cleaning Products
You should always read the label on your cleaning products before using them. Some cleaning products may contain harsh chemicals that can damage the finish on your smoker or even eat away at the metal. So, to be safe, stick to cleaners that are specifically designed for use on electric smokers.
No Caustic Soda
Caustic soda, or sodium hydroxide, is a highly corrosive substance that should never be used on an electric smoker.
Even in small concentrations, caustic soda will eat away at the metal of your smoker, potentially causing permanent damage. If you’re looking for a heavy-duty cleaner, stick to oven cleaner instead.
Avoid Using Abrasive Pads
Abrasive pads may be great for scrubbing away tough stains on other surfaces, but they should never be used on an electric smoker. The rough texture of these pads can scratch and damage the finish of your smoker beyond repair.
If you insist on using an abrasive pad, make sure it’s a gentle one designed specifically for use on non-stick surfaces.
Maintenance Tips for Electric Smokers
In addition to regular cleaning, there are a few things you can do to keep your electric smoker in tip-top shape.
Wipe Down after Each Use
After each use, it’s a good idea to wipe down the inside and outside of your smoker with a damp cloth. This will help to remove any residue that’s left behind and prevent it from hardening and becoming difficult to remove.
Empty the Water Pan After Each Use
If you’re using your electric smoker with water in the pan, be sure to empty it out after each use. Allowing water to sit in the pan for extended periods of time can cause it to rust, which will shorten the lifespan of your smoker.
Clean Removable Parts Often
Be sure to clean the removable parts of your smoker often, such as the racks, drip tray, and water pan. These parts are more likely to collect residue and can become breeding grounds for bacteria if they’re not cleaned often.
Cover Your Smoker When Not in Use
When you’re not using your electric smoker, it’s a good idea to cover it with a tarp or other type of cover. This will protect it from the elements and prevent it from gathering dust and debris.
Safety Tips
There are a few safety considerations you should keep in mind when cleaning your electric smoker.
Switch Off and Unplug
Before cleaning your smoker, be sure to switch it off and unplug it from the power source. This will prevent you from accidentally turning it on while cleaning it and will protect you from being electrocuted.
Wear Protective Gear
When cleaning your smoker, it’s a good idea to wear gloves, a dust mask, and other protective gear. This will protect you from harmful chemicals and debris.
Follow the Instructions
When cleaning your smoker, be sure to follow the instructions in your owner’s manual. Some smokers require special care and cleaning procedures, so it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid damaging your smoker.
Work in a Well-Ventilated Area
Some cleaning products can give off harmful fumes, so it’s important to work in a well-ventilated area when cleaning your smoker. If possible, open a window or turn on a fan to help ventilate the area.
How to Clean Masterbuilt Smoker FAQs
How clean does an electric smoker need to be?
While it is important to keep the interior of your smoker clean, it does not need to be spotless. In fact, it’s actually beneficial to leave a thin layer of smoke on the walls of your smoker, as this will add flavor to your food.
How do you clean maggots out of an electric smoker?
If you find maggots in your electric smoker, the best course of action is to throw them away and thoroughly clean the smoker. To do this, remove all of the removable parts and wash them in hot soapy water.
Then, scrub the interior of the smoker with a stiff brush and hot soapy water. Rinse the smoker out with clean water and allow it to air dry before using it again. You can even use a disinfector like Lysol to clean the smoker if you want to be extra sure that all of the maggots are gone.
Can you put smoker racks in the dishwasher?
Yes, most smoker racks are dishwasher-safe. However, it’s always a good idea to check the manufacturer’s instructions to be sure.
Conclusion
Cleaning your smoker is important to prolonging its lifespan and ensuring that it produces delicious food. There are several ways that you can clean your smoker, as we have seen above. But the most important thing is to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid damaging your smoker.
We hope this article on how to clean Masterbuilt smoker has been helpful. And please feel free to share it with someone who might find it useful. Thank you for reading!