Koshering Your Kitchen for Passover

An A-Z List of Utensils, Surfaces and Appliances

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W Y Z

Whenever this list calls for koshering by a certain method, the item can also be koshered by a stronger method.  Example: Hagalah by Pouring can be replaced by Hagalah.

The order, from strongest to weakest:

Libbun Gamur

Libbun Kal

Hagalah

Hagalah by Pouring

A

Air Fryer (based upon Phillips version)

Libbun Kal

The Phillips Air Fryer, is, in some ways, like an oven. It contains a drawer, into which the food is  placed. The drawer is made of plastic. Inside the drawer is a basket, whose sides are metal. The bottom of the basket is mesh, made of metal. This basket can be removed from the drawer.

Its highest temperature setting is 390 degrees, Fahrenheit.

The Drawer                                                    

  1. Clean the drawer thoroughly.
  2. Turn the heat to at least 375 degrees, and leave it on for five cycles of 30 minutes each.

Mesh Rack -                                        Libbun Gamur

The mesh rack requires libbun gamur, since food is normally placed directly upon it (without a vessel). Libbun Gamur is accomplished with a blowtorch (and should be done by someone who is halachically trained in this procedure). Or, the rack may be koshered by placing it in a self-cleaning oven.

Our standard for libbun kal, as mentioned elsewhere in this book, is 550 degrees Fahrenheit for one hour, or 375 degrees for two hours. The Phillips Air Fryer can reach a temperature of 390 degrees, Fahrenheit. However, it cuts itself off after each half hour. 390 degrees for only two hours is not sufficient. (Based upon a ruling by Rabbi Yisrael Belsky, zs”l, in a similar case.)

Aluminum

As a metal, aluminum can be koshered. There are, however, certain limitations, depending on what appliance or vessel is made from the aluminum. See the individual item (tins, etc.)  in this list for details.

Annie Glass 

Hagalah by Pouring

Annie Glass products are generally glass products, such as platters or bowls, with a precious metal trim. The trim could be around the edge of the plate or bowl, or it could be in the form of various metal strips that are in various places on the surface of the platter or bowl.

Although regular glass does not absorb nor emit and can be used for Passover after a thorough cleaning—Annie Glass is different.

Most Annie Glass products contain strips of gold or platinum. According to the company, in production, while the glass is in a molten state, “the metal fuses into it. “The strips do not sink into the glass to the point where they are covered by glass. (“The glass does not cover the precious metal.”) Rather, the strips are fused to the glass and remain above it.

If one were to scratch the product with a fingernail, the metal would scratch.

Since metal does absorb—it must be koshered. This is done using hagalah by pouring.  Follow the steps outlined in this book for hagalah by pouring, making sure to pour carefully over all of the metal pieces.

(A representative of the firm assured us that the product can withstand the boiling water, as long as the product is at room temperature when the water is poured.)

Note: If any Annie Glass product does not fit the above description, the method of koshering that we have recommended may not apply.

Anova Precision Cooker  

Clean Thoroughly

The cooking process of this appliance, involves, putting the food to be cooked in a vacuum packed or airtight bag.Then, the bag with the food inside it is placed into a vessel that is filled with water. Following that, the precision cooker is placed in the water, and is held in place with a clamp that is attached to an inside wall of the vessel. The water is heated and the food is cooked.

The precision cooker needs no koshering. Since the food is placed in a vaccum-packed bag, or, at least, a ziploc bag, the water does not absorb any food. Consequently, the precision cooker does not absorb anything from the water.

Note: However, since food may indeed get into the water, one should take the precaution of perfoming hagalah on the precision cooker.

The manufacturer stated in correspondence with us: “You are supposed to use  vacuum sealed bags or ...ziploc freezer bags...the food should not get into the water in any way.”

 

Apple Corer: Any Material 

Clean Thoroughly

Apple Divider: Any Material 

Clean Thoroughly

Avocado Slicer: Any Material 

Clean Thoroughly

B

Baby Bottle: Plastic

Hagalah

Baking Pans

Cannot Kosher

Generally, baking pans cannot be koshered because of their fragile nature. However, if the baking pans are strong enough to withstand libbun gamur and the individual will kosher them properly—libbun gamur may be performed on them.

Baking Tray - See: Tray, Baking
Barbecue

Body of Barbecue – Libbun Kal

The body of the barbecue, meaning the walls of the barbecue and its hood, should be koshered in much the same way as one koshers an oven. As follows:

  1. Clean the barbecue thoroughly.
  2. Do not use the barbecue for at least twenty-four hours.
  3. Close the hood, turn the barbecue on, and keep it at:

550 degrees for an hour.

Or:

450 degrees for an hour and a half.

Or:

375 degrees for two hours.

Racks – Libbun Gamur

The racks of the barbecue, since they touch the food directly, require libbun gamur.

Placing the barbecue racks in a self-cleaning oven is not an option, since it is doubtful that they can withstand the heat of that process. (In our research, two manufacturers stated that placing barbecue racks into the self-cleaning cycle is not recommended.) Even if an individual is willing to accept whatever damages are done to the racks—placing them in the oven for the self-clean cycle would not work halachically. Reason: The sages have decreed that libbun gamur that is performed in instances where there is some risk of damage to the item—is invalid, since there is fear that the individual will not carry out the process properly for fear of damaging the item.

A good option in the case of the barbecue racks—is hot coals. First read, “The Steps in Libbun Gamur”. In performing the libbun gamur, surround the racks—with new hot coals. Keep the coals in place until the metal racks are red. (Some suggest actually doing this at night in order to be able to notice the redness of the racks.)

The racks can be replaced if one does not want to kosher them by libbun gamur.

     Coals

If the barbecue has coals, they should be replaced with new ones.

Baster: Glass Tube

Clean Thoroughly

This applies, regardless of whether or not the baster is used with hot substances. 

Baster: Metal Tube

Clean Thoroughly

The above applies if the baster is not normally used with hot substances. If it is indeed used with hot substances, hagalah is needed.

Baster: Plastic Tube

Clean Thoroughly

This applies, if the baster is not normally used with hot substances. If it is indeed used with hot substances, hagalah is needed.

Bite Plate

Clean Thoroughly

Blech

Cannot Kosher

This refers to the simple plate of metal that is used to cover the burners of the stove. Some people refer to an electric hot plate as a blech. For details about koshering that appliance, see “hot plate.”

The plain metal blech requires libun gamur, since food is often placed directly upon it. Since it is too fragile for this, it cannot be koshered.

Blender

There are a number of parts to a blender: the jar, the blade and the cover.

The jar of the blender

If it is made of glass, it need only be rinsed and cleaned.

If it is made of plastic—the method of koshering depends on how it was used:

If the blender was generally used for substances which were not hot—the jar need only be rinsed and cleaned.

If the blender was generally used for substances which were hot—the jar should be koshered by hagalah.

The blade of the blender

The method of koshering the blade depends on how the blade was used:

If the blender was generally not used for hot substances, nor was it used for hammets which was sharp, it need only be thoroughly rinsed and cleaned. In doing so, one must be careful to separate the blade from other parts of the blender so it can be cleaned throughout.

If, however, the blender was generally used for hot hammets or for hammets which was sharp, it must be koshered by hagalah. In performing the hagalah, one must be careful to separate the blade from other parts of the blender so it can be koshered throughout.

The cover of the blender

The cover of the blender and any other parts which did not generally come into contact with hot substances, need only be rinsed and cleaned. Before doing so, one should take apart the parts and separate them from each other, so no particles are caught between the parts.

Note: If the blender cannot be cleaned thoroughy—it should not be koshered.

Blender: Immersion

An immersion blender is used to blend or puree—food in the vessel that it is prepared in. That vessel could be a bowl, a pot, or the like. 

Earlier, we noted the following: In addition to a keli rishon, which is something (such as a pot) that was used on the fire itself, there is the type of item that is not actually a keli rishon itself, but was used in a keli rishon. An example of this is a ladle that is used to remove soup from pots that are on the fire. Such an item also needs hagalah in a keli rishon.

It follows, therefore, that an immersion blender that is normally used in a pot that is on the fire—needs hagalah in a keli rishon.

On the other hand, an immersion blender that is normally used with cold—would need no koshering at all.

If one acquires a used immersion blender from an unknown source, and does not know how it was used, one should assume it was used in a pot that was on the fire, and kosher it with hagalah in a keli rishon.

Blentec Blenders - See: Vitamix Blenders

An immersion blender is used to blend or puree—food in the vessel that it is prepared in. That vessel could be a bowl, a pot, or the like. 

Earlier, we noted the following: In addition to a keli rishon, which is something (such as a pot) that was used on the fire itself, there is the type of item that is not actually a keli rishon itself, but was used in a keli rishon. An example of this is a ladle that is used to remove soup from pots that are on the fire. Such an item also needs hagalah in a keli rishon.

It follows, therefore, that an immersion blender that is normally used in a pot that is on the fire—needs hagalah in a keli rishon.

On the other hand, an immersion blender that is normally used with cold—would need no koshering at all.

If one acquires a used immersion blender from an unknown source, and does not know how it was used, one should assume it was used in a pot that was on the fire, and kosher it with hagalah in a keli rishon.

Bottle (Baby): Plastic - See: Baby Bottle

An immersion blender is used to blend or puree—food in the vessel that it is prepared in. That vessel could be a bowl, a pot, or the like. 

Earlier, we noted the following: In addition to a keli rishon, which is something (such as a pot) that was used on the fire itself, there is the type of item that is not actually a keli rishon itself, but was used in a keli rishon. An example of this is a ladle that is used to remove soup from pots that are on the fire. Such an item also needs hagalah in a keli rishon.

It follows, therefore, that an immersion blender that is normally used in a pot that is on the fire—needs hagalah in a keli rishon.

On the other hand, an immersion blender that is normally used with cold—would need no koshering at all.

If one acquires a used immersion blender from an unknown source, and does not know how it was used, one should assume it was used in a pot that was on the fire, and kosher it with hagalah in a keli rishon.

Bowls: Chinaware

Cannot Kosher

Normally, chinaware cannot be koshered. If, however, a chinaware bowl absorbed hammets when a liquid remained in the bowl for 24 hours or more—the bowl may be kosherd by milui-veirui (filling and pouring)

Bowls: Earthenware

Cannot Kosher

Normally, Earthenware cannot be koshered. If, however, a Earthenware bowl absorbed hammets when a liquid remained in the bowl for 24 hours or more—the bowl may be kosherd by milui-veirui (filling and pouring).

Bowls: Glass

Clean Thoroughly

Glass does not absorb. This is the case, even with colored glass.  If the glass bowls,  however, have a coating on the rim or elsewhere, they should not be used on Passover.

Bowls: Metal

Hagalah

Bowls: Wood

Hagalah

Burners: Stove - See: Stovetop—Burners
Butcher Block - See: Countertop: Butcher Block

C

Can Opener

Clean Thoroughly

Cast Iron

As a material, cast iron can be koshered. There are, however, certain limitations, depending on what item is made from the cast iron. See the individual item in this list for details.

Ceramic Coated Cookware

Cannot Kosher

This cookware is metal and ceramic. The outer part of the vessel—which does not touch the food—is metal. The inner part of the vessel, which holds the food, however, is ceramic.

Chargers

Clean Thoroughly

Chargers are large plates that are placed under dinner plates or bowls.  They are largely decorative, and also keep the food that drops from a plate or bowl—from dropping directly onto the table or tablecloth.

If an ordinary plate is (at most),  a keli sheni, then the charger is (at most) a keli shelishi.

Cheese Grater

Clean Thoroughly

Cheese Slicer (Wire Type): Any Material

Clean Thoroughly

China

Cannot Kosher

Chinaware falls under the same category as earthenware and generally cannot be koshered

Citrus Juicer: Any Material

Clean Thoroughly

Coffee Grinder

Clean Thoroughly

Coffee Urn

Hagalah

This refers to a metal coffee urn. If it was only used for hot water, it need only be cleaned thoroughly. If it was used for coffee, or if bread or other hammets was placed upon it to be heated, it should be koshered by hagalah.

Question: According to Sephardic tradition, the method of koshering is based on the normal use of the item. (In other words, if an item is usually used only with cold foods, and once or twice was used with hot food, it is koshered as items used with cold foods are koshered).

Example: A regular fork, which was normally used for eating food that was in a plate. Even if this fork was once or twice placed in a pot of food that was on the fire, it still is koshered in the way other forks are koshered. We base our method of koshering upon the normal use of the item.

Why do we not apply the normal-use principle to the case of the urn? If its normal use is for boiling water and only sometimes is it used to heat bread—should we not kosher it the way we would kosher an appliance that was used just for water (by simply cleaning it thoroughly)?

No. The principle of rov tashmishohthe normal use of the item—applies only to the manner in which the item is used (with cold, with hot, etc.). It does not apply to the type of food that it was used with.

Colander

Hagalah

Convection Oven - See: Oven: Regular, and Oven: Self-Cleaning.
Copper

As a material, copper can be koshered. There are, however, certain limitations, depending on what item is made from the copper. See the individual item (pots, etc.) in this list— for details.

Corkscrew: Any Material

Clean Thoroughly

Corn Holder: Any Material

Clean Thoroughly

Corn Stripper: Any Material

Clean Thoroughly

Corningware
Countertop

 Hagalah by Pouring

One need not kosher the counters and also cover them. Either of the two is enough.

Countertop: Butcher Block

 Hagalah by Pouring

Countertop: Formica

 Hagalah by Pouring

Countertop: Granite

 Hagalah by Pouring

Countertop: Marble

 Hagalah by Pouring

Countertop: Quartz

 Hagalah by Pouring

Countertop: Quartzite

 Hagalah by Pouring

Countertop: Stainless Steel

 Hagalah by Pouring

Covers of Pots

Hagalah

Covers of pots may be koshered separately (from the pot itself) or while the cover is on the pot. If hagalah is done on the pot while the cover is on, the cover as well as the pot is koshered (even if the water that is being boiled in the pot does not reach the top).  However, since the vapors in the water may not reach certain parts of the cover—such as the part where the cover meets the pot—those parts should be dipped in the boiling water.

Crockpot - See: earthenware
Cups: Chinaware

If the cups were never used with hammets (keep in mind that liquor is hammets and soup can be hammets), they need only be rinsed and cleaned. If the cups had been used with hammets, they generally cannot be koshered.

Cups: Earthenware

If the cups were never used with hammets (keep in mind that liquor is hammets and soup can be hammets), they need only be rinsed and cleaned. If the cups had been used with hammets, they generally cannot be koshered.

Cups: Glass

Clean Thoroughly

Glass does not absorb. This is the case, even with colored glasses. If the glasses, however, have a coating on the rim or elsewhere, they should not be used on Passover.

Cups: Metal

 Hagalah by Pouring

Regular hagalah, is of course also good.

Since cups are normally poured into from a keli rishon (a vessel which had been on the fire), they may absorb hammets. Whatever hammets which was absorbed in the cup was absorbed keddeh kelippah deep. (This means, a depth that is enough to peel—perhaps 1/16 of an inch.)

Even though this is a minute amount, the cup cannot be used as is, since, on Passover, any miniscule amount of hammets which is mixed with another substance—is prohibited.

Cutting Board

Technically speaking, cutting boards that are made of metal, plastic, or wood—can be koshered. Since, however, it is difficult to clean them thoroughly because of holes and cracks, one should not try to kosher them.

D

Dentures

 Clean Thoroughly

Dish Towels

 Clean Thoroughly

Dishes: Chinaware

Cannot Kosher

Dishes: Earthenware

Cannot Kosher

Dishes: Glass

Clean Thoroughly

Glass does not absorb. This is the case, even with colored glass.  If the glass dishes, however, have a coating on the rim or elsewhere—they should not be used on Passover.

Dishes: Metal

Hagalah by Pouring

Regular hagalah, is of course also good.

Dishes: Stoneware - See: Stoneware
Dishes: Wood

Hagalah by Pouring

Regular hagalah, is of course also good.

Dishwasher

Run Through Cycle

Draining Rack

Clean Thoroughly

E

Earthenware

Cannot Kosher

Electric Knife

Hagalah

An electric knife consists of a power handle onto which a stainless-steel blade is fitted. If the portion between the blade and the handle cannot be cleaned thoroughly, the blade and handle should be separated and then koshered. Neither the fact that the handle may not be made of metal, and is made of, perhaps, plastic, nor the fact that the blade and handle are two separate components —eliminates the need to kosher the handle.

Egg Cooker (based upon Egg Genie)

Hagalah

Egg Slicer: Any Material

Hagalah

If normally used with cold substances, cleaning the item thoroughly is enough.

Enamel

Enamel is a substance that is used to coat the metal of  roasters, ovens and many other items.

In the trade, what the layman refers to as enamel, is actually called, porcelain enamel.

It is not, however, made of porcelain. It is, rather, powdered or liquefied glass that is applied to metal.

Some of the doubts regarding this substance, in halacha, emanate from the fact that the components of  this substance were, for some time—unknown. Apparently, because artisans did not want to reveal their trade secrets, they would not let the public know how enamel was made. (This is evident from a Responsum by the Hatam Sofer, 1762-1839.)

Even though, however, we know that enamel is made from glass, we cannot give it the halachic status of glass. Since the glass of the enamel is fused to metal, the combination of the two takes on the status of a new material, the halachic status of which—is doubtful.

Despite this, some hold, based on a safek sefeka (double doubt) that enamel can be koshered. The method: Hagalah, performed three times. 

The safek sefeka (double doubt) is as follows:

The first doubt: Some hold that enamel is like earthenware. Some hold that enamel is like glass. 

The second doubt: Even if we hold that enamel is like earthenware, some hold that earthenware can be koshered by performing hagalah three times. Some hold that it cannot.

Consequently, an enamel item, such as a roaster, which would have been koshered by hagalah if it were made of regular metal, may be koshered when it is made of enamel, by performing hagalah three times.

Many Ashkenazim, on the other hand—even though a number of their sages permit koshering enamel by performing hagalah three times—consider enamel to be a substance that cannot be koshered.

On the other hand, if an enamel item is listed that, if it were made of regular metal could be koshered by hagalah by pouring,  we state, Cannot be Koshered. Reasons: (1) It is doubtful if triple hagalah by pouring actually works. (2) Even if it does work, it is impractical.

Enamel Roaster - See: Roaster: Enamel

G

George Foreman

Cannot Kosher

This appliance, since it is used without liquids—requires libbun gamur. Since, however, it cannot withstand the intense heat of libbun gamur—it cannot be koshered.

Glass

Materials that may be used without being koshered are materials which do not absorb and do not emit. The most common example of this is glass. This holds true, even if the glass is used for cooking. Thus, even Pyrex and other such substances do not absorb. (This is not universally agreed upon. For more information on Pyrex, see, Pyrex, in this listing.) The statement that glass does not absorb, holds true for colored glass. It, too, does not absorb.

Regarding glass with a coating on the rim or elsewhere: It should not be used on Passover if previously used with hammets.

Glasses 

Clean Thoroughly

Glass does not absorb. This is the case, even with colored glasses.  If the glasses, however, have a coating on the rim or elsewhere, they should not be used on Passover.

Granite - See: Countertop: Granite

Hagalah by Pouring

Regular hagalah, is of course also good.

Grates - See: Stovetop: Cast Iron Grates

Hagalah by Pouring

Regular hagalah, is of course also good.

Griddle (Portable)

Cannot Kosher

What is the difference between a griddle and a grill? A griddle is flat and a grill has grates.

The griddle, since it is used without liquids—requires libbun gamur. Since, however, it cannot withstand the intense heat of libbun gamur—it cannot be koshered.

Grinder, Meat - See: meat grinder

H

Hood (of a range)

The hood is above a stove top. This may be an actual hood, or it may be another appliance which is above the stove, such as a microwave. In either case, if this item is too close to the stove top, it can present an halachic problem. The reason: Vapors rise from food which is being cooked on the stove. These vapors become absorbed in the hood above. Then, when something else is being cooked, the food which was absorbed in the hood is emitted, and mixes with the food which is being cooked on the stove. In effect, the hood becomes like a pot cover.

If the hood is far enough above the stove top, it will not absorb hot vapors. Then, there is no problem. If, however, the hood is close enough to absorb hot vapors (i.e. the hood itself does get hot), then it cannot be used as is.

Using the Hood of a Range on Passover

If the hood is close enough to the stove top to absorb hot vapors—it cannot be used as is on Passover. And, since it is difficult to kosher a hood due to its size, the only option is to cover it. Proceed as follows: Clean the hood thoroughly. If there are detachable parts in it (filters, etc.) remove them and clean them. Then, cover the underside of the hood with aluminum foil.

Hot Plate

Perhaps Cannot Kosher

Many people refer to this as an “electric blech.”

If its normal use consists of an individual placing a vessel on the hot plate (and not placing food directly on the cooking surface of the hot plate), its method of koshering is hagalah by pouring.

Reason: The hot plate absorbs, when food from the vessel that is placed on the hot plate falls onto the surface of the hot plate.

Note that this method of koshering holds true only if the surface of the hot plate is made of a material that can be koshered (such as metal). If, however, the surface of the hot plate is made of a material that cannot be koshered, such as earthenware or enamel, the hot plate cannot be koshered.  For more information on Enamel, see, Enamel, above, in this list.

If the normal use of the hot plate consists of placing food directly upon the hot plate—and the food is not in a vessel—the hot plate must be koshered by libbun gamur (and it is doubtful if this is safe in the case of an electric hot plate).

I

Ice Cream Scoop (any Material)

Clean Thoroughly

Ice Maker: Portable (based upon unit manufactured by Dometic)

Clean Thoroughly

Ice Shaver (based upon Jelly Belly version)

Clean Thoroughly

Ice Tray

Clean Thoroughly

Iron

Most iron utensils can be koshered. There are however, certain limitations, depending on which utensil or vessel is made from the iron. See the individual utensils in this list for details.

J

Jars: Glass

Clean Thoroughly

Glass does not absorb. This is the case, even with colored glass.

Juicer (based upon Breville Juice Fountain)

Clean Thoroughly

K

Keurig Single-Cup Coffee Maker

Run Through Cycle

  1. Clean the entire machine, including the platform upon which the cup sits­—very thoroughly.
  2. Fill the reservoir with water.
  3. Turn on the machine as if brewing coffee, but do not use any coffee.

This qualifies as hagalah by pouring, and is sufficient to kosher a Keurig, since,  whatever was absorbed in it, became absorbed through pouring (irui keli rishon).      (Daf Hakashrus of the OU, Adar 5772).

 

Kitchen aid - See: Mixer
Knife: Electric - See: Electric Knife
Knives: Metal 

Hagalah

L

Ladles

Hagalah

Lead

Lead can be koshered. There are however, certain limitations, depending on which item is made from the lead. (See, pots, etc. in this list.)

M

Magic Bullet Mixer

The Magic Bullet mixer consists of a base, which includes the motor; a plastic jar, and a plastic cylinder which contains the knife. When the appliance is in use, the cylinder with the knife in it is placed between the jar (which is inserted upside down), and the base.

The jar

If it is made of glass, it need only be rinsed and cleaned.

If it is made of plastic, then the method of koshering depends on how it was used:

If the blender was generally used for substances which were not hot­—the jar need only be rinsed and cleaned. If the blender was generally used for substances which were indeed hot—the jar should be koshered by hagalah.

The plastic cylinder with the knife in it 

If the blender was generally used for substances which were not hot­—this piece need only be rinsed and cleaned. If the blender was generally used for substances which were indeed hot—this piece should be koshered by hagalah.

Note: Our research shows that the knife does not become hot in the normal use of the appliance.

Marble - See: Countertop: Marble
Meat Grinder

Clean Thoroughly

This applies, if the grinder was not normally used with foods that were hot. Additionally, if the meat grinder has portions that cannot be reached while cleaning—it should not be used.

Meat Tenderizer (Any Material)

Clean Thoroughly

This assumes that the item is not being used with hot foods.

Melon Baller (Any Material)

 Clean Thoroughly

Metals

Metals can be koshered. There are, however, certain limitations, depending on what item is made from the metal. See the individual item in this list (forks, pots, etc) for details.

Microwave Oven

How it Works

The microwave oven is different from a conventional oven in a number of ways:

  1. It heats the food from the inside out, rather than from the outside in.
  2. There is no heat which is directed at the food, as in a regular oven. Rather, microwaves are directed at the food. These microwaves, in turn, agitate molecules inside the food. This produces heat.

 The microwave itself

In both a microwave and a conventional oven, vapors carry particles of food into the walls of the oven, where they are absorbed.

In koshering an oven, we attempt to remove the food which is absorbed in the oven walls. In a conventional oven, this is done by producing enough heat to burn out that absorbed food (see “ovens”).

In the case of a microwave, the same goal exists. However, there is no heating element in a microwave oven which we can use to generate the heat which will burn the absorbed food. Consequently, a microwave oven is koshered by first waiting twenty four hours from its last use; then placing a bowl of water inside it and turning on the oven. The water will become heated, and will produce vapors which will carry away the food absorbed in the oven walls. As is the case in a conventional oven, koshering a microwave should be done after waiting twenty four hours after the last use of the oven.

To be safe, after koshering the microwave, re-do the process (without waiting any period of time between the first and second times) placing the bowl of water on a different spot in the microwave, so that the spot where the bowl had been the first time will be koshered as well.

The microwave racks

As long as food is normally placed on them with a separation between the rack and the food— the racks may be koshered by leaving them in the microwave during the koshering process.

Mirror Trays 

Clean Thoroughly

These are mirrors, with or without frames, that are used as trays. They are normally used only with cold substances

Mixer (Bosch Type)

Although, technically, this item can be koshered, the fact that it is commonly used with flour and dough, as well as the fact that the flour and dough can go into the housing of the appliance and remain there—make it advisable to refrain from koshering it for Passover.

The Bosch type of mixer contains a base (which contains the motor), a plastic or metal bowl, and a plastic lid.  It also contains attachments, such as a metal dough hook, a metal wire whisk, and  metal batter whisks.

If one is certain that the machine can be thoroughly cleaned, follow this procedure to kosher it for Passover: 

The bowl

The bowl should be koshered by hagalah by pouring or by regular hagalah.

The plastic lid

The plastic lid should be cleaned thoroughly.

The attachments

The attachments, such as the wire whisk, dough hook and wire whisks (assuming they are metal), should be koshered by hagalah. The same would apply to plastic. If any attachments are ceramic—they cannot be koshered.

Mixer (Electric Stand Mixer, Kitchenaid Type)

This type of mixer has a “c” shaped housing or stand. Various accessories, such as dough hooks,  flat beaters and wire beaters, are connected to the bottom of the roof of the “c” and protrude downwards into a bowl, which sits upon the base of the “c.”

Although, technically, this item can be koshered, the fact that it is commonly used with flour and dough, as well as the fact that the flour and dough can go into the housing of the appliance and remain there—make it advisable to refrain from koshering it for Passover.

N

Nut Cracker: Any Material

Clean Thoroughly

O

Oven: Microwave - See: Microwave Oven
Oven: Regular (not self-clean)

Libbun Kal

The oven itself

For the purposes of koshering an oven for Passover, the following steps are followed:

  1. Clean the oven thoroughly.
  2. Do not use the oven for at least twenty-four hours.
  3. Turn the oven on, and keep it at:

      550 degrees for an hour.

                      Or

      450 degrees for an hour and a half.

                     Or

      375 degrees for two hours.

Oven racks

It should be noted that the oven racks require libbun gamur if food is normally placed directly upon them and not in a vessel which is upon the racks. (Or, the racks can be replaced with new ones).

If, however, food is normally placed upon the racks when the food is in a vessel—they require only libbun kal, and can be koshered in the oven as the oven is being koshered. 

Note: A conventional convection oven (there are self-cleaning convection ovens as well) is similar to a regular conventional oven in most ways. However, the convection oven has a fan in it which circulates the air, allowing the oven to cook at a lower temperature. (Just as wind makes a cold day colder, so does the air circulation in a convection oven make the warm air warmer.) The conventional convection oven is koshered in the same way as the conventional regular oven, though one must make sure to clean the fan properly before koshering the oven.

Oven: Self-Cleaning  

The oven itself

Since a self-cleaning oven reaches a temperature of 900 degrees Fahrenheit in its self-cleaning cycle, the self-cleaning process accomplishes libbun gamur. Therefore, to kosher a self-cleaning oven, clean it thoroughly and run it through its self-cleaning cycle.

Oven racks

The racks of this oven, as well, may be koshered by leaving them in the oven during the self-cleaning cycle (though one should check with the manufacturer before doing so).

Note: A self-cleaning convection oven (there are conventional convection ovens as well) is similar to a self-cleaning regular oven in most ways. However, the convection oven has a fan in it which circulates the air, allowing the oven to cook at a lower temperature. (Just as wind makes a cold day colder, so does the air circulation in a convection oven make the warm air warmer.) The self-cleaning  convection oven is koshered in the same way as the self-cleaning regular oven,  though one must make sure to clean the fan properly before koshering the oven.

P

Percolator (Metal)

 Hagalah

Place Mats

Clean Thoroughly

Plastic

Plastic can be koshered. There are, however, certain limitations, depending upon factors such as the fragility of the plastic, and the utensil that is made from the plastic.

Plates: Chinaware

Cannot Kosher

Plates: Earthenware

Cannot Kosher

Plates: Glass

Clean Thoroughly

See, glass

Plates: Metal

Hagalah by Pouring

Regular hagalah, is of course also good.

Plates: Pottery

Cannot Kosher

Plates: Wood

Hagalah by Pouring

Regular hagalah, is of course also good.

Popcorn Maker: Air Popper (generally does not use oil)

Cannot Kosher

Popcorn Maker: Regular (uses some oil)

Hagalah

This appliance is much like a frying pan, halachically, since it uses a bit of oil. Note: This method of koshering this appliance applies only to Passover. It does not apply to koshering such an appliance from unkosher to kosher.

Pot Covers

Hagalah

Pot: Enamel - See: Enamel
Pots: Ceramic Coated - See: Ceramic Coated Cookware
Pot: Metal

Hagalah

Pot: Teflon

Hagalah

Pots: Ceramic Coated - See: Ceramic Coated Cookware
Potato Masher (Any Material)

Hagalah

Potato Peeler 

Clean Thoroughly

Pottery

Cannot Kosher

Pressure-cooker 

Hagalah

A pressure cooker places steam inside it under pressure, which allows that steam to reach temperatures above the boiling point of water (212 degrees Fahrenheit).

This, then, raises a question regarding hagalah: Does hagalah, using water that is (only!) 212 degrees Fahrenheit, cause absorbed food to be emitted from the vessel—even though the vessel absorbed the food at temperatures greater than 212 degrees?

Answer: Yes. Boiling water causes the vessel to emit whatever it absorbed through contact with liquids—regardless of the temperature at the time of absorption.           

Note: In performing this hagalah, one should be careful to include the small parts which are part of this appliance.

Pyrex

Clean Thoroughly

(This is not universally agreed upon.)

Q

Quartz - See: Countertop: Quartz
Quartzite - See: Countertop: Quartzite

R

Racks: Oven

 Libbun Gamur

Range Hood - See: Hood of a Range
Refrigerator 

Clean Thoroughly

Rice Cooker (based upon Hamilton Beach version)

Hagalah

Roaster: Enamel - See: Enamel
Rollie Vertical Grill

Cannot Be Koshered

The Rollie Vertical Grill is used, to, for example, scramble eggs into a frankfurter-shaped omelet.

It is a cylinder-shaped appliance. At the top of the appliance, there is a circular hole,  called the food chamber, that is about an inch or two in diameter and about six inches deep. The ingredients are placed in the food chamber, and the finished product pops up from this chamber.

Since cooking in the appliance is done without oils, the appliance must be koshered by libbun. Since this appliance could not withstand the heat of libbun—it cannot be koshered.

Rolling Pin (Metal or Wood)

Technically speaking a rolling pin can be koshered by cleaning it thoroughly. However, holes and cracks in the rolling pin may have particles lodged in them which will not come out. If the rolling pin cannot be cleaned thoroughly, therefore, one should not use it.

Rubber

Rubber can be koshered. There are, however, certain limitations, depending on what item is made from rubber. See the individual item in this list for details.

Rubber Gloves

Clean Thoroughly

S

Salad Spinner: Metal  

Clean Thoroughly                                        

The salad spinner is used to remove excess water from salad greens. During the spinning, the water is separated from the leaves.

Salad Spinner: Plastic

Clean Thoroughly                                        

The salad spinner is used to remove excess water from salad greens. During the spinning, the water is separated from the leaves.

Sandwich Maker (based upon Hamilton Beach version)

Cannot Kosher

This appliance, since it is used without liquids—requires libbun gamur. Since, however, it cannot withstand the intense heat of libbun gamur—it cannot be koshered. Indeed, the manufacturer informed us that such a process could cause permanent damage to the product.

Scale: Food - See: Food Scale
Self-Cleaning Oven - See: Oven: Self-Cleaning
Serving Forks: Metal

Hagalah by Pouring

Regular hagalah, is of course also good.

Serving Forks: Plastic

Hagalah by Pouring

Regular hagalah, is of course also good.

Serving Forks: Wood

Hagalah by Pouring

Regular hagalah, is of course also good.

Serving Spoons: Metal

 Hagalah by Pouring

Regular hagalah, is of course also good.

Any spoons, however, such as large spoons, that are normally used in pots that are on the fire—require regular hagalah.

Serving Spoons: Plastic

 Hagalah by Pouring

Regular hagalah, is of course also good.

Any spoons, however, such as large spoons, that are normally used in pots that are on the fire—require regular hagalah.

Serving Spoons: Wood

 Hagalah by Pouring

Regular hagalah, is of course also good.

Any spoons, however, such as large spoons, that are normally used in pots that are on the fire—require regular hagalah.

Shelves: Refrigerator

Clean Thoroughly

Silver

Silver can be koshered. There are, however, certain limitations, depending on what item is made from the silver. See the individual item in this list (knives, wine cup, etc.) for details.

Sink

Hagalah by Pouring

Skewer

Libbun Gamur

Soda Stream Machine

Clean Thoroughly

Spiralizer: Electric

Clean Thoroughly

(based upon Morphy Richards Spiralizer Express)

Since this appliance is only used with cold substances, it need only be cleaned thoroughly.

Spiralizer: Manual

Clean Thoroughly

Since this appliance is only used with cold substances, it need only be cleaned thoroughly.

Spoon Rest: Any Materials

Clean Thoroughly

Spoons: Metal 

Hagalah by Pouring

Regular hagalah, is of course also good.

Any spoons, however, such as large spoons, that are normally used in pots that are on the fire—require regular hagalah.

Spoons: Plastic

Hagalah by Pouring

Regular hagalah, is of course also good.

Any spoons, however, such as large spoons, that are normally used in pots that are on the fire—require regular hagalah.

Spoons: Wood

Hagalah by Pouring

Regular hagalah, is of course also good.

Any spoons, however, such as large spoons, that are normally used in pots that are on the fire—require regular hagalah.

Stainless Steel

As a material, stainless steel can be koshered. There are, however, certain limitations, depending on what item is made from the stainless steel. See the individual item in this list  for details.

Stainless Steel Counters - See: Countertop: Stainless Steeel

As a material, stainless steel can be koshered. There are, however, certain limitations, depending on what item is made from the stainless steel. See the individual item in this list  for details.

Stone

Stone can be koshered. There are, however, certain limitations, depending on what item is made from stone. See the individual item in this list (such as “counters,”) for details.

Note: Stone does not refer to “stoneware,” which is a totally different substance.

Stoneware

Cannot Kosher

Stoneware is not made of stone. It is actually pottery or another ceramic—and cannot be koshered.

Stovetop: Burners  

Hagalah by Pouring or Libbun Kal

Hagalah may have safety or practicality issues. libbun kal may be the best option

Stovetop: Between Burners

Stainless steel   - Hagalah by Pouring or Libbun Kal

Or: Use with blech. Then, no koshering of stovetop is necessary. Just clean it thoroughly. An opening may be made in the blech to allow the flame or heat to go from the burner to the vessel above it.

Or: Cover the area between the burners with aluminum foil or some other substance .           

Enamel    - Cannot Kosher

One may, however, cover the area between the burners with a few layers of aluminum foil. For more information on enamel, see, Enamel, above, in this list.

Stovetop: Grates

Hagalah by Pouring or Libbun Kal

Hagalah may have safety or practicality issues. Libbun kal may be the best option.

Strawberry Huller: Any Materials

Clean Thoroughly

Straws (Drinking): Stainless Steel

Clean Thoroughly

T

Tables

Hagalah by pouring

However, if one wishes to consistently use the table with a table cloth, hagalah by pouring need not be done. One should use a tablecloth which was not used for hammets.

Teflon - See: Metals
Teflon Frying Pan - See: Frying Pan: Teflon
Teflon Pot - See: Pot: Teflon
Thermometer (food)

The most common type of  food thermometer, today, features a metal probe that is placed into the food, and a digital readout piece that displays the temperature and does not go into the food. The display piece may be made of plastic or some other material. 

The metal probe must be koshered by hagalah, if it is made of a material that can be koshered. 

The plastic readout piece, though it does not normally touch the food, should also be koshered by hagalah. Why? It may be compared to the plastic handle of a metal spoon. Though the plastic handle does not absorb the food that is touched by the metal of the spoon—we suspect that food may have spilled onto the handle. 

Timers (Pop-Up) 

Hagalah

This applies only if made of a material upon which hagalah is effective.

Tin

Tin can technically be koshered. There are, however, certain limitations, depending on the strength of the tin and upon the function of the item. See the individual item in this list (baking pans, etc.) for details.

Toaster

Since toasters are used for bread during the year, and it is difficult to remove all crumbs, one should not use a toaster on Passover if it was used for hammets during the year.

Toaster-Oven

Since toaster ovens are used for bread during the year, and it is difficult to remove all crumbs, one should not use a toaster oven on Passover if it was used for hammets during the year.

Tongs (Any Materials) 

Clean Thoroughly

Our ruling applies only to tongs that are used with cold, not to tongs that are used over a fire.

Trays, Baking 

                                                                   Libbun Gamur

Generally, baking trays cannot be koshered because of their fragile nature. However, if the baking trays are strong enough to withstand libbun gamur and the individual will kosher them properly—libbun gamur is a vialable option

Tray: China 

Clean Thoroughly

Tray: Earthenware

Clean Thoroughly

Tray: Metal

Clean Thoroughly

Tray: Wood

Clean Thoroughly

Tupperware 

Hagalah

Even if the Tupperware was never used with hot foods, it may need koshering for Passover. If, for example, it held liquid hammets for 24 hours or more—perhaps the Tupperware was used to hold a salad with vinegar—it would absorb that liquid.

Sink

Hagalah by Pouring

Skewer

Libbun Gamur

Soda Stream Machine

Clean Thoroughly

Spiralizer: Electric

Clean Thoroughly

(based upon Morphy Richards Spiralizer Express)

Since this appliance is only used with cold substances, it need only be cleaned thoroughly.

Spiralizer: Manual

Clean Thoroughly

Since this appliance is only used with cold substances, it need only be cleaned thoroughly.

Spoon Rest: Any Materials

Clean Thoroughly

Spoons: Metal 

Hagalah by Pouring

Regular hagalah, is of course also good.

Any spoons, however, such as large spoons, that are normally used in pots that are on the fire—require regular hagalah.

Spoons: Plastic

Hagalah by Pouring

Regular hagalah, is of course also good.

Any spoons, however, such as large spoons, that are normally used in pots that are on the fire—require regular hagalah.

Spoons: Wood

Hagalah by Pouring

Regular hagalah, is of course also good.

Any spoons, however, such as large spoons, that are normally used in pots that are on the fire—require regular hagalah.

Stainless Steel

As a material, stainless steel can be koshered. There are, however, certain limitations, depending on what item is made from the stainless steel. See the individual item in this list  for details.

Stainless Steel Counters - See: Countertop: Stainless Steeel

As a material, stainless steel can be koshered. There are, however, certain limitations, depending on what item is made from the stainless steel. See the individual item in this list  for details.

Stone

Stone can be koshered. There are, however, certain limitations, depending on what item is made from stone. See the individual item in this list (such as “counters,”) for details.

Note: Stone does not refer to “stoneware,” which is a totally different substance.

Stoneware

Cannot Kosher

Stoneware is not made of stone. It is actually pottery or another ceramic—and cannot be koshered.

Stovetop: Burners  

Hagalah by Pouring or Libbun Kal

Hagalah may have safety or practicality issues. libbun kal may be the best option

Stovetop: Between Burners

Stainless steel   - Hagalah by Pouring or Libbun Kal

Or: Use with blech. Then, no koshering of stovetop is necessary. Just clean it thoroughly. An opening may be made in the blech to allow the flame or heat to go from the burner to the vessel above it.

Or: Cover the area between the burners with aluminum foil or some other substance .           

Enamel    - Cannot Kosher

One may, however, cover the area between the burners with a few layers of aluminum foil. For more information on enamel, see, Enamel, above, in this list.

Stovetop: Grates

Hagalah by Pouring or Libbun Kal

Hagalah may have safety or practicality issues. Libbun kal may be the best option.

Strawberry Huller: Any Materials

Clean Thoroughly

Straws (Drinking): Stainless Steel

Clean Thoroughly

U

Urn - See: Coffee Urn

V

Vitamix Blender

The jar

If it is made of glass, it need only be rinsed and cleaned.

 If it is made of plastic, then the method of koshering depends on how it was used:

If the blender was generally used for substances which were not hot­—the jar need only be rinsed and cleaned.

*Note:Our research shows that the knife does not become hot in the normal use of the appliance

If the blender was generally used for substances which were hot—the jar should be koshered by hagalah.

The blade of the blender                                 Hagalah by Pouring

If the blender was generally used for substances which were not hot­—the knife need only be rinsed and cleaned.

If the blender was generally used for substances which were hot—the knife should be koshered by hagalah by pouring.

The cover                                                                Clean Thoroughly

The cover of the blender, and any parts that were not near hot substances, need only be rinsed and cleaned. In the unlikely event that the blender was used for hot liquids, and the steam from those liquids rose to the cover of the blender—the cover should be koshered by hagalah

W

Waffle Maker (based upon Hamilton Beach version)

Cannot Kosher

This appliance, since it is used without liquids—requires libbun gamur. Since, however, it cannot withstand the intense heat of libbun gamur—it cannot be koshered. The manufacturer informed us, regarding a similar appliance, that a blowtorch could cause permanent damage to the product.

Warmer, Warming Cart or Warming Drawer

The problem with many warming drawers or warming carts is as follows:

The appliance gets hot enough to absorb, but not hot enough to emit.

As follows:

If the food in the warmer gets hotter than 120 degrees Fahrenheit (which is yad soledet boh), the appliance would have to be koshered to remove the unkosher food that is absorbed inside it. 

How? Even if food normally does not sit directly on a shelf or rack inside the warmer—but, rather, is on a plate, a tin, or the like—the warmer would have to be koshered with hagalah(since, due to the vapors it becomes like a pot). Or it can be koshered by a substitute for hagalah, which is libbun kal (light libbun).

Neither is possible in the case of a warmer. It is too unwieldy for hagalah. And, the warmer does not reach the temperature that is sufficient for libbun kal

Water Cooler

Clean Thoroughly

Whisk: Any Material 

Clean Thoroughly

This applies, as long as the whisk is usually used with cold substances. Otherwise, hagalah should be done, if the product is made of a material that can be koshered. 

Wine Cup

Clean Thoroughly

This applies, only if the cup was not used with hammets liquors.

Wood

Wood can technically be koshered. There are, however, certain limitations, depending on the function of the item that is made from the wood. See the individual item in this list (bowl, rolling pin, etc.) for details.

Y

Yonanas Desert Maker 

Clean Thoroughly

The Yonanas Desert Maker consists of a base, which contains the motor; a blade cone, which is a cone-shaped ceramic piece with six rows of metal blades; a chute, made of plastic, which contains the blade cover; and a plunger, which is made of plastic, and fits inside the chute.

Since this appliance is normally not used with foods that are hot, koshering it requires only cleaning it very thoroughly.

Z

Zester (Any Material) 

Clean Thoroughly