Things You'll Need
Dish soap
Towel
Vegetable oil
Blowing a gasket could take on real meaning if you don't keep your pressure cooker gasket in good repair. A damaged seal will not properly may leak pressure or rupture in an explosion of your cooker's contents. Properly caring for your pressure cooker gasket will add years to its use. Gaskets that have begun to dry out can be restored for use, but gaskets that have nicks or cracks must be replaced.
Step 1
Grab the gasket in one spot and pull it in toward the center of the lid to release it from the groove.
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Step 2
Wash the gasket gently in soapy water with a sponge or soft brush.
Step 3
Rinse the gasket, and allow it to air-dry.
Step 4
Inspect the gasket carefully. If it has nicks or cracks that indicate damage, you must replace it.
Step 5
Apply a thin coat of vegetable oil to restore the gasket if it simply looks dry. Wipe away excess oil.
Step 6
Replace the gasket in the clean lid for storage or use. Insert it into the groove in the lid, pushing it in all the way around the lid until it is properly seated.
Tip
Remove and check your pressure cooker gasket from the lid after each use.
Do not use abrasives on the gasket. Abrasives can damage it and lead to larger nicks. Repeat the lubricating process once a year, or more often if the gasket appears to be drying. Newer model gaskets do not need to be lubricated.
Warning
Damaged gaskets must be replaced before using the cooker to prevent the risk of burns.