How to Install an Instant Pot Sealing Ring: All Models

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How to install Instant Pot sealing ring—that was the phrase I frantically Googled after my first attempt at pressure cooking turned into a steamy, noisy mess. I’d followed the recipe exactly, locked the lid, hit “Pressure Cook”… and then came the hissing, leaking, and zero pressure build-up. The culprit? A sealing ring that wasn’t installed properly.

If you’ve just unboxed your Instant Pot or replaced your old ring with a new one, this step might seem too simple to mess up. But trust me—installing the sealing ring correctly is essential for safe, efficient, and mess-free pressure cooking.

Whether you’re wondering:

How to put on an Instant Pot sealing ring properly,
Why there are different colored rings (like red vs. clear),
Or whether you can cook without one (spoiler: you shouldn’t)…

This guide covers it all. We’ll walk through:

A step-by-step process for installing your sealing ring the right way
Mistakes to avoid (and how to fix them)
Special instructions for models like the Duo Plus and Ninja Foodi
When to replace your sealing ring—and why it matters

Because when your Instant Pot seals properly, pressure cooking is a breeze. But if the ring isn’t snug, you’ll face everything from delayed cooking to safety concerns. Let’s make sure your next meal goes off without a hiss or a hitch.

Table of Contents

What Is the Instant Pot Sealing Ring and What Does It Do?

The Instant Pot sealing ring may look like a simple silicone loop, but it plays one of the most critical roles in pressure cooking. Without it, your Instant Pot won’t seal properly, can’t build pressure, and simply won’t cook food as intended. It’s that important.

The Sealing Ring’s Main Job: Locking in Pressure

Every time you use your Instant Pot in pressure cooker mode, the unit needs to create an airtight seal inside the lid. The sealing ring expands during cooking to trap steam and pressure inside the pot. This rising pressure is what allows the food to cook faster—sometimes up to 70% faster than traditional methods.

When the sealing ring is installed correctly and in good condition, you’ll see the float valve rise, the countdown timer begin, and pressure cooking do its magic. But if the ring is:

Missing,
Torn or stretched,
Or not seated properly…

…you’ll get steam leaks, slow pressure build-up, or no cooking at all.

Can You Use Instant Pot Without Sealing Ring?

This is a common question from first-time users:
Can you use Instant Pot without sealing ring?
Short answer: No.

Without the sealing ring, the pot cannot pressurize. Steam will escape freely, and you risk undercooked food, wasted ingredients, or even damage to the unit over time. The lid might close, but without a secure seal, the Instant Pot can’t do its job.

Sealing Rings: Red vs Clear – What’s the Difference?

When you open a new Instant Pot box and find two sealing rings in different colors—usually one red and one clear—you might be scratching your head.
Why are there 2 different sealing rings with my Instant Pot?

It’s not just a style choice—it’s a smart system for managing flavors and keeping your meals tasting fresh.

Why Instant Pot Ships 2 Different Colored Rings

Instant Pot ships two sealing rings so you can separate your flavors. Over time, the silicone absorbs the smells of strong ingredients—especially onions, garlic, spices, or curries. Using the same ring for both sweet and savory dishes can lead to flavor crossover (hello, curry-scented cheesecake).

That’s where the color-coding helps:

Color	Suggested Use
Red	Savory meals (soups, stews, meats, rice)
Clear	Sweet dishes (desserts, oatmeal, yogurt)

You can use either ring for any dish, but most Instant Pot users assign them by category to avoid flavor transfer.

Which One Should You Use?

Choose based on what you’re cooking. If you’re making a chicken curry, go with the red ring. For banana bread or cheesecake, swap in the clear one.

You can even label or store them separately using zip bags marked “Sweet” and “Savory” for quick access.

So, those color-coded rings aren’t just spare parts—they’re flavor protectors that help you enjoy a more delicious cooking experience, meal after meal.

How to Identify the Correct Sealing Ring Position

Getting the Instant Pot sealing ring position right is the key to safe and successful pressure cooking. If the ring isn’t seated properly, your pot won’t pressurize, and steam may leak out from the lid. Let’s walk through how to identify the correct position—visually and by feel.

What the Groove Looks Like

Inside the Instant Pot lid, you’ll see a circular metal ridge—this is where the sealing ring is designed to sit. Surrounding that ridge is a deep, slightly flexible silicone groove, often a bit recessed. That groove holds the ring tightly in place during cooking.

The ring should tuck completely inside the groove, with no visible sagging, bulging, or uneven gaps.

How to Know It’s Locked In

It should feel snug all the way around. Run your fingers along the ring to check that it’s fully seated—no dips or loose spots.
It should not fall out easily. If you tip the lid upside down and the ring falls, it wasn’t installed properly.
It will stretch slightly. That’s normal. A snug stretch ensures the ring expands to form a perfect seal when heated.

How to Install an Instant Pot Sealing Ring Properly

Whether you’re replacing an old ring or installing one for the first time, follow this step-by-step guide to get it right every time.

✅ Installation Checklist: How to Put on Instant Pot Sealing Ring

Step	What to Do	Why It Matters
1	Clean and dry the ring and lid	Removes moisture and food bits that prevent sealing
2	Align ring with the silicone groove	Proper placement is essential for airtight pressure
3	Insert ring by pressing it in inch-by-inch	Ensures even stretch and no warping
4	Check for full contact all around the groove	Prevents leaks and sealing issues
5	Gently tug on the ring to test fit	A secure ring won’t pop out or feel loose
6	Run a finger around the entire edge	Detects uneven fitting or hidden gaps

Use this process every time you replace your ring—or if you suspect yours has slipped out during cleaning.

How to Install Sealing Ring on Instant Pot Duo Plus

The Instant Pot Duo Plus model follows the same core principles, but the lid design includes a slightly wider inner lip and more rigid vent structure, which may make the sealing ring feel stiffer to install.

Special Notes for Duo Plus Users:

Line up the sealing ring with the notch near the float valve slot first.
Then gently press the rest into place clockwise until fully seated.
You may feel a slight resistance—that’s normal due to tighter gasket tolerances.

Take your time. If the ring looks uneven, pull it out and start again from the opposite side. A poorly seated ring on the Duo Plus is a common cause of pressure issues.

How to Install Instant Pot Sealing Ring in Ninja Foodi

Though the Ninja Foodi is a different brand, it uses a similar silicone sealing ring that sits in the pressure lid’s inner groove. If you own both appliances, you’ll notice some slight differences in shape, stiffness, and lid design—but the core process remains the same.

Key Differences with the Ninja Foodi:

The sealing ring is flatter and often has gripping tabs for easier removal.
The groove may be shallower, so the ring feels tighter during installation.
Unlike the Instant Pot, some Ninja Foodi models have a detachable pressure lid, so always check the label before installing the ring.

Installation Steps for Ninja Foodi:

Clean and dry both ring and lid
Align with inner ridge near vent valve
Press the ring evenly along the groove
Make sure it’s flush and firm—no gaps or loose edges
Run a manual pressure cycle with water to test the seal

If you’re switching between Instant Pot and Ninja Foodi, don’t mix up their rings. They’re shaped differently and may not seal correctly if used in the wrong model.

What to Do If the Sealing Ring Won’t Stay In Place

You’ve pressed it in over and over, but your sealing ring just won’t stay put. Sound familiar? You’re not alone—this is one of the most common frustrations among Instant Pot users, especially those using smaller models like the 3-quart version.

Why It Happens

If the sealing ring keeps slipping out or feels like it won’t “click” into the groove, a few culprits may be at play:

✅ The ring is old and stretched out – Silicone loosens with age and heat.
✅ It’s warped from drying or storage – Exposure to high temps or sunlight can misshape the ring.
✅ It’s dirty or oily – Even a thin film of grease or moisture can prevent it from gripping the groove.
✅ You’re using a new ring in a 3-quart model – These smaller units have tighter lid tolerances, so fresh rings may feel overly snug at first.

Quick Fixes That Actually Work

Soak in hot water for 2–3 minutes. This softens the silicone, making it more flexible and easier to press in.
Refrigerate for 5–10 minutes. Want the opposite effect? Cooling firms up the silicone, which can help it grip better if it’s too soft or warped.
Wipe the lid groove clean. Even a little grease or leftover sauce can interfere with the seal.
Use both thumbs to press evenly. Work in small sections and rotate the lid as you go.

If it still won’t stay in after cleaning and heating/cooling, it may be time to replace the ring.

When to Replace Your Sealing Ring

Sealing rings aren’t meant to last forever. Like car tires or toothbrushes, they wear down with time and use. Knowing when to replace your sealing ring helps you avoid pressure problems, cooking delays, and potential messes.

Signs Your Ring Is Due for Retirement:

🔸 It’s loose or stretched out and doesn’t stay firmly in place
🔸 It has cracks, tears, or deep creases
🔸 There’s a persistent odor even after deep cleaning
🔸 The color has changed drastically (yellowing, cloudiness)
🔸 Food keeps taking longer to pressurize or won’t reach pressure at all

Most manufacturers recommend replacing the sealing ring every 12 to 18 months, but heavy use or frequent cooking of spicy or oily meals may shorten that window.

Where to Buy Authentic Sealing Rings

Stick with official Instant Pot parts or certified-compatible options. Avoid generic knockoffs—they often don’t seal properly and may degrade faster.

✅ Recommended:

Look for your exact model size (3 qt, 6 qt, 8 qt) and confirm compatibility before purchasing.

How the Sealing Ring Connects to the Instant Pot Seal Valve

The sealing ring and the seal valve are like a tag-team duo. Both must work together for your Instant Pot to function properly.

What Is the Instant Pot Seal Valve?

The seal valve (sometimes called the steam release valve) is the small plastic knob on the lid. When you set it to “Sealing,” it holds in steam to allow pressure to build. Once your cook time ends, you can turn it to “Venting” to release pressure manually.

Why the Ring Matters to the Valve

Here’s the catch: if your sealing ring isn’t properly seated, steam will leak out before it ever gets to the valve. That means:

Your food may not cook
You’ll hear continuous hissing
The float valve might never pop up
The pressure cycle may fail to begin

Always check both components before every use. A working sealing ring + seal valve combo is non-negotiable for pressure cooking success.

Removing, Cleaning, and Storing the Sealing Ring

Good maintenance = longer life for your ring and better-tasting food. Here’s how to do it right.

Can You Put the Sealing Ring in the Dishwasher?

Yes! The sealing ring is 100% dishwasher-safe. Just remove it after each use and place it on the top rack. If you notice lingering odors even after washing, try the following:

Deep Cleaning for Stubborn Odors

Vinegar soak – Soak in 1 part white vinegar + 3 parts warm water for 15–30 minutes
Lemon water steam – Add lemon slices + water to the pot and run a 2-minute steam cycle
Baking soda paste – For surface stains or smells, gently rub a paste of baking soda + water and rinse well

Smart Storage Tips

Store rings in separate zip bags labeled “Sweet” and “Savory”
Let rings air-dry fully before storing (trapped moisture = mildew risk)
Avoid leaving them in the lid during long storage—they can stretch or deform over time

A little ring TLC goes a long way. Keep them clean, dry, and rotated regularly, and you’ll avoid most sealing issues altogether.

The Time I Forgot to Install the Sealing Ring

Let me tell you about the time I completely forgot to install the sealing ring—and how it turned into a 45-minute disaster.

It was a hectic Tuesday night. I’d just come home from work, tossed some chicken, rice, and broth into my Instant Pot, and hit the Pressure Cook button. I walked away, proud of myself for saving dinner with so little effort.

But 10 minutes in, I noticed something weird…
There was no countdown timer, the float valve hadn’t popped, and the Instant Pot was just hissing quietly in the corner. That soft psssst sound didn’t go away—it got louder.

After another 15 minutes, I opened the lid (carefully), only to find…
Uncooked chicken, soupy rice, and zero pressure built.

I’d forgotten the most important step: installing the sealing ring.

Without it, all the steam escaped, no pressure built, and the cooking never began. I felt silly—especially because I’d just deep-cleaned the lid and left the ring drying on the counter. Classic mistake.

What I Learned

Now, every time I cook with my Instant Pot, I run a quick mental checklist:

✅ Is the sealing ring installed and locked into the groove?
✅ Is the float valve loose and clean?
✅ Is the steam valve in the “Sealing” position?

It takes me 10 seconds, and it’s saved me countless headaches since.

So if your Instant Pot isn’t pressurizing—check the sealing ring first. It’s small, but mighty.

FAQs

How do you install a seal ring in an Instant Pot?

To install a seal ring, align it with the inner metal groove on the underside of the lid. Press it in inch by inch until it’s fully seated. It should be snug and not fall out when the lid is flipped upside down.

How tight should the sealing ring be?

The sealing ring should be snug but flexible. It should stay in place without sagging or falling out. A bit of stretch is normal during installation—that’s how it creates a secure pressure seal.

Why are there red and clear sealing rings?

Red and clear rings are color-coded to help you separate flavors. Use one for savory meals and the other for sweet dishes. This prevents flavor transfer between meals.

Can you pressure cook without a sealing ring?

No, you cannot pressure cook without a sealing ring. The ring is essential to form an airtight seal. Without it, pressure won’t build, and your food won’t cook properly.

How do I know if my sealing ring is in properly?

Check that the ring sits evenly inside the lid’s groove and doesn’t pop out when flipped. Run your finger around it to feel for any uneven edges or loose areas.

Do sealing rings wear out?

Yes, sealing rings wear out over time. Replace them every 12–18 months, or sooner if you notice cracks, warping, or persistent odors that don’t wash out.

Can sealing rings be washed in the dishwasher?

Yes, sealing rings are dishwasher-safe. Place them on the top rack and let them air-dry completely afterward. For deep odor removal, soak them in vinegar or lemon water.

Does Instant Pot Duo Plus use a different ring?

The Instant Pot Duo Plus uses the same type of silicone sealing ring as other models, but the groove may feel tighter. Always buy rings labeled for your specific model size (e.g., 6 qt or 8 qt).

Can I use Ninja Foodi sealing ring in an Instant Pot?

No, Ninja Foodi sealing rings are designed differently and may not fit or seal properly in an Instant Pot. Always use the correct ring designed for your brand and model.

Conclusion

So, why is it such a big deal to know how to install Instant Pot sealing ring the right way? Because that tiny piece of silicone is the heart of your pressure cooking experience.

It’s easy to overlook, but forgetting it—like I did—can completely derail your dinner. Whether you’re cooking for two or prepping for the whole week, a properly installed sealing ring means faster meals, better pressure, and peace of mind.

✅ Remember:

Always double-check your ring before cooking.
Replace it when worn, stretched, or stinky.
Store sweet and savory rings separately for cleaner flavors.