Diagnosis
The strange smell from your Hawkins Classic Pressure Cooker gasket is caused by food oils and particles becoming trapped in the silicone rubber. Over time, especially if the gasket isn't cleaned immediately after cooking pungent foods (like curry or fish), these residues can decompose and cause persistent odors.
How to Fix It
For a thorough clean, follow these steps:
- Unlock the lid and remove the sealing ring (gasket) by pulling it out of its groove in the underside of the lid.
- Wash the gasket in hot, soapy water using a mild dishwashing liquid. Scrub it thoroughly with your fingers or a soft brush to dislodge any debris.
- Rinse it completely under clean running water.
- For lingering odors, soak the gasket for 15-20 minutes in a solution of warm water and either white vinegar or baking soda.
- Dry the gasket completely with a clean towel and air-dry it fully before reinstalling it into the lid's groove, ensuring it's seated evenly all around.
If That Didn't Work
If the odor persists, boil the gasket alone in a pot of plain water for 5-10 minutes to help release deeply embedded smells. You can also wash it on the top rack of your dishwasher. As a last resort, consider replacing the gasket, as old, hardened silicone can retain odors permanently.
Heads Up
Never use abrasive cleaners or scouring pads on the gasket, as this can damage its surface and affect the seal. Always ensure the gasket and lid are perfectly dry before storage to prevent mildew. For best performance and safety, inspect the gasket regularly for cracks, tears, or loss of elasticity and replace it if you find any damage.