Buying a slow or pressure cooker
- Whichever you choose, buy from a reputable retailer rather than a third-party seller online, as the appliance may not have passed all the necessary safety checks. Make sure it is fitted with a standard UK 3-pin plug and fuse.
- You will find lots of online reviews of slow and pressure cookers but don’t rely solely on these as they can be faked by unscrupulous sellers.
- Look for safety features on the appliance such as safety valves for releasing pressure, locking lids, and anti-blocking devices. Slow cookers often have automatic shut-offs and cool-touch exteriors.
- Register your appliance so you can be contacted easily if there is a safety recall of your product. It’s also much easier to return a faulty item or order a repair if it’s registered.
Using a slow or pressure cooker safely
- Always set the cooker on a heat-proof surface and keep it at least six inches away from the wall.
- Keep the power cable away from the edges of the cooker.
- Don’t overfill, check the manufacturer’s instructions and follow them. Typically, a pressure cooker should be maximum two-thirds full and a slow cooker maximum three-quarters full. But for expanding foods such as rice or grains it may be less. In a pressure cooker, use enough liquid – normally around 250ml – and only a tiny amount of oil as any more could melt the gasket.
- With a slow cooker, if you want to leave the house while it is running, set it on low. Only use the high heat option when you are in the house.
- To clean your cooker safely, follow the manufacturer's instructions. Unplug it before cleaning, dismantling, or when not in use.
- Check which parts are dishwasher-safe and which should be washed by hand. Ensure all components are completely dry before reassembling and using the cooker again.
- If you notice any unusual smells or noises such as sparking or buzzing, unplug the cooker immediately and contact the retailer or manufacturer.
