How to Properly Clean a Portable Ice Maker

What do fancy dinners, family picnics and summer barbeques all have in common? Yes, these are all fun events, but they're also events in which the host can go through a vast quantity of ice, which can be either very expensive, or very time consuming. But these are also perfect opportunities to use a new portable ice maker. Portable ice makers are a quick and efficient way to make ice, which is perfect for entertaining both large and small groups at home or in the office. Between the speed in which they make ice and the different stylish options available, portable ice machines are great addition to your kitchen or office space prior to your next big party.

Most portable ice machines can produce a full tray of ice cubes in less than ten minutes, and over the course of the day can produce as much as 35 pounds of ice. In addition to the time these ice machines can save you, they'll also save you money on overpriced store-bought ice. Portable ice makers can also allow for all sorts of customization. With the different shapes, sizes and colors of units available, there's certain to be one that fits your unique style. They'll also allow you to customize the size and shape of your ice with ease. And true to their name, portable ice makers are compact enough to fit on almost any kitchen counter or shelf, and great on the go for events outside the home or office.

Portable ice makers are simple to operate as well. Simply plug them in and fill the reservoir with water, and you're ready to go. Best of all, portable ice machines are simple to clean and maintain. In terms of regular maintenance, all you need to do is periodically clean your unit to ensure you're getting the best tasting ice possible.

To properly clean your portable ice maker: 

1. Remove any leftover ice from the unit and unplug it from the wall or outlet. Make sure the unit is completely empty before beginning the cleaning process. Unplugging it from the wall will also ensure there are no safety issues while cleaning it.
2. Remove the ice tray from inside the ice maker. For most units, you should just be able to unhook the tray and take it out from the interior of the unit. Place the tray on a clean surface off to the side for now.
3. Wipe down the interior of the unit with a soft cloth. Pay special attention to the walls of the portable ice machine, as this is where the most build up can occur. If you'd like, use a couple tablespoons of vinegar on the cloth. This can help to further clean any impurities as well as help with calcium build up that is caused by hard water. 
4. Wipe off the tray and put the unit back together. Scrub the tray in the same manner as the interior walls and reservoir of the ice maker. Again, a small bit of vinegar can be used if you prefer. Once the tray has been thoroughly wiped down, replace it within the unit and plug it back in.  
5. Run a couple ice making cycles with a capful of vinegar or lemon juice and water. This will help further keep your portable ice maker free from impurities and calcium buildup from hard water. Additionally, this technique will help to remove any of the initial plastic taste that may be evident in newer units as a result of the manufacturing process.
6. Empty the water reservoir completely and run a few cycles with clean, warm water. This will also help to take care of any plastic taste as well as thoroughly rinse off both the interior water reservoir as well as the ice tray.
7. Wipe down the exterior of the machine. Using a soft cloth and warm, clean water, scrub the outside of the machine. This will give the machine a clean, fresh look, which can in turn help your kitchen or office area look clean and tidy.  

Your portable ice maker should now be completely clean and ready to produce great tasting ice! For more information on the right portable ice machine for your next party or event, check out a comparison of the best portable ice makers.