How to Clean and Maintain Your Grinder (Crusher): The Ultimate Guide

Why It’s Important to Clean Your Grinder 🔍

If your grinder is sticky, hard to twist, or you’re noticing a weird smell or flavor — it’s probably time for a clean. Here's what happens when you keep your crusher in top shape:

• Improved performance (smooth rotation and consistent grind)

• Better taste (no old residue mixing with fresh herb)

• Longer life for your crusher

• More kief collection thanks to a clean screen

• Healthier use (no mold or bacteria build-up)

🗓️ How Often Should You Clean It?

How often you clean your grinder depends on how much you use it:

• Casual users: Every 3–4 weeks

• Regular users: Every 2–3 weeks

• Heavy users: Once a week

If it’s hard to twist or smells funky — don’t wait.

🧰 What You’ll Need

To clean your crusher properly, grab the following:

• A small brush (old toothbrush or makeup brush)

• 90%+ isopropyl alcohol (for metal grinders)

• Warm water and dish soap (for acrylic grinders)

• Cotton swabs or Q-tips

• Paper towels or soft cloth

• A bowl or container

• Optional: freezer (for easier residue removal)

How to Clean Your Grinder: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Disassemble the Grinder

Take your grinder apart into its individual pieces. Most have 3 or 4 sections: lid, teeth chamber, collection chamber, and kief catcher.

Step 2: Freeze for 30 Minutes (Optional but Helpful)

Put the disassembled grinder in the freezer for 30 minutes. This hardens the residue and makes it easier to brush or scrape out — without wasting that sticky gold.

Step 3: Brush and Tap

Tap all parts over a tray or clean paper to catch loose herb and kief. Use your brush to remove debris from between the teeth and along the screen.

Pro tip: Save what you collect — you can use it later.

Step 4: Deep Clean (Metal vs. Acrylic Grinders)

For Metal Grinders:

1. Place pieces in a bowl and pour in isopropyl alcohol until submerged.

2. Let soak for 20–30 minutes.

3. Scrub sticky parts with a Q-tip or brush.

For Acrylic Grinders:

1. Soak in warm, soapy water only.
   
   
2. Never use alcohol — it can damage plastic.
   
   
3. Scrub gently with a brush.

Step 5: Rinse and Dry

Rinse every part thoroughly with warm water.
Pat dry with a paper towel and let air dry fully before reassembling.

🔄 Grinder Maintenance Tips Between Cleans

• Brush out your grinder after every few uses.

• Avoid grinding damp or sticky herb.

• Add a tiny drop of natural oil (like coconut or hemp) to threads if they squeak — but go light.

✨ Final Thoughts: Treat Your Crusher Right

Your grinder is a core part of your ritual — keep it clean and it’ll return the favor with smoother grinds, tastier hits, and more kief in the catcher.

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