Diagnosis
The silicone sealing ring (gasket) around the blade assembly is designed to be removed for cleaning. Food particles and liquids inevitably seep underneath it during blending, leading to trapped residue, foul odors, and potential bacterial growth if not cleaned properly. This component is not dishwasher-safe, as the high heat and harsh detergents can degrade the silicone.
How to Fix It
You must remove the ring after *every* use. First, ensure the blender is unplugged. Turn the blade assembly upside down. Locate the inner lip of the silicone ring. Use your thumbnail or a blunt tool like a butter knife or chopstick to gently pry it up and work it off the base. Once removed, hand-wash both the ring and the now-exposed groove on the blade base with hot, soapy water and a brush or cloth. Rinse thoroughly. Critically, allow both the ring and the base to air-dry completely before snapping the ring back into place.
If That Didn't Work
For stubborn, caked-on gunk or persistent smells, create a soaking solution. Submerge the removed ring in a 50/50 mixture of white vinegar and warm water for 30-60 minutes. After soaking, scrub it with a soft brush. For mineral deposits or discoloration, a paste of baking soda and water can be used as a gentle abrasive. If the ring is cracked, warped, or permanently stained, it should be replaced; contact Ninja customer support for a genuine part.
Heads Up
Never reassemble or store the blender with a damp sealing ring or a wet blade base groove. This creates a perfect dark, moist environment for mold and mildew. Always ensure everything is bone-dry before putting it back together or into the pitcher.