A pasta machine allows you to make some of the tastiest recipes. Whether you want to make bucatini, lasagna, or pappardelle, a pasta machine got you sorted.
Like with other kitchen appliances, it gets dirty after extended use. For this, you’ll need to clean it to ensure smooth operation. So, how do you clean a pasta machine? Let’s find out.
What Is A Pasta Machine?
A pasta machine is a kitchen utensil that rolls dough into thin sheets. It can either be electric or manual. Whichever the case, it rolls the pasta dough, stretches it, and then cuts it into the desired size.
Most pasta machines are made of stainless steel. The outer shell covers a series of rollers through which the dough passes. As it passes, the machine flattens it into the preset size, ensuring the end product has a unique thickness. Some devices have extra attachments to make fettuccine, noodles, or linguine.
Types Of Pasta Machines
As mentioned, there are two main types: electric and manual.
Electric Pasta Machine
If you want to save time making pasta, consider buying an electric unit. While expensive, it mitigates most of the input you would with a manual one. All you need to do is add water to the dough, and the machine will mix them automatically.
After inputting the settings, it will extrude the pasta in the desired shape and thickness. For more automated pasta making, you can use high-end options that mix and knead the dough. Of course, you’ll have to shell out more.
Manual Pasta Machine
On the other spectrum is the popular manual pasta-making machine. They are cheaper, easy to use, and maintain. However, you’ll have to perform every part of the pasta-making process. It is similar to a meat grinder. You feed it with the dough through a funnel and use the crack to flatten and slice it into desired strips.
How To Clean An Electric Pasta Machine
So, how can you clean an electric pasta machine? Let’s find out.
What You’ll Need:
- Warm water
- Soap
- Soft cloth
- Dishwasher (optional)
Guide
- Unplug the pasta machine from the power source. Cleaning the unit while connected to a power source can lead to electrocution or other bodily injuries, such as your fingers getting entangled in the rollers.
- Consult the user manual for a detailed cleaning process. Different brands come with specific steps. If you don’t have one, you can download it from the manufacturer’s website.
- With the pasta machine unplugged, you can now remove the detachable accessories. This is to help you access hard-to-reach areas. You can then clean the detachable accessories separately.
- Remove any excess dough stuck on the machine. You can use a soft brush or dry cloth to wipe away the debris gently.
- If your model has dishwasher-safe components, you can clean them with it. Only put part of the unit in the washer.
- Clean the rollers and the other accessories using a damp, soft cloth. Use warm, soapy water for deep cleaning. Once clean, leave them to air dry thoroughly.
- Once the interior is clean, wipe down the machine using a clean, damp cloth or sponge. Since the exterior is made of stainless steel, it will be easier to clean. Run the sponge over the body to remove any stuck flour or dough. You can use an all-purpose cleaner for better results.
- Once the accessories are dry, reassemble the machine, ensuring every attachment reaches its rightful position. You can refer to the user manual for a detailed reassembling process.
- Finally, store your pasta machine in a cool, dry place.
How To Clean A Manual Pasta Machine
Unlike electric pasta machines, manual units can be made of copper, plastic, or wood. And with each material comes a unique way of cleaning it. Let’s look at the general cleaning process.
Things You’ll Need:
- Soft cloth
- Brush with soft bristles
- Baby wipes
- Scrap dough
Guide
- Since this is not an electric unit, you can start by reading the user manual. It will contain steps on how to detach the removable accessories. If you don’t have one, you can get one from the manufacturer’s website.
- Now, detach the removable accessories, such as the crank, rollers, and table clamp. Make sure to note their positions for easier reassembly. Set them aside for individual cleaning.
- Before using water to clean your machine, use polymer clay to remove stuck flour and dough. Alternatively, you can use scrap dough or Play-Doh for similar results. Move the polymer clay three times through the machine to remove the excess dough.
- Once clean, use a brush with soft bristles to clean the crevices. As you’d expect, tiny flour debris will get entangled in small spaces of the pasta machine. You can use compressed air if you don’t have a brush.
- Next, clean the rollers with a soft damp cloth. Wipe any debris gently to avoid damaging the rollers. Alternatively, you can use a baby wipe or a wet wipe for similar results.
- With the rollers clean, you can now clean the machine’s exterior. You can use a baby wipe or a damp cloth to remove stuck flour or dough.
- Let the machine air dry before reattaching the accessories.
How Often Should You Clean A Pasta Machine?
It would help if you cleaned your pasta machine after every use. This shouldn’t be a thorough cleaning process. Instead, it would help if you aimed to wipe away any visible debris. You may also clean the easy-to-remove attachments. It will save you time during deep cleaning sessions.
How To Maintain A Pasta Machine
Here are tips to keep your pasta machine clean and in good operating shape.
- Always clean the unit after use. As mentioned, you don’t have to clean all the parts—instead, the easy-to-remove and the machine’s exterior. You can use a damp cloth to wipe away stuck flour and dough.
- Avoid submerging your pasta machine in water. In addition, you should avoid using too much water to clean it since water leads to rust. Instead, use a dry or damp cloth to remove any sticky residue.
- Check for trapped dough occasionally. Using the machine, flour, and dough will get stuck in the rollers and crevices. Use a brush with soft bristles to remove such debris.
- If you are using a manual pasta machine, you should lubricate it occasionally. It ensures that the moving parts do not get worn out easily.
- After cleaning and lubricating your machine, store it in a dry, cool place away from extreme temperatures, moisture, and humidity.
Final Thoughts
Cleaning a manual or electric pasta machine is a manageable task. All you need is a damp cloth, soft brush, and warm water, and you are good to go.
Avoid cleaning metal parts with water, as this may lead to rusting. Instead, use a damp cloth or baby wipe. You can clean the plastic components of the pasta machine with a dishwasher.