Having recently acquired a replacement crockpot, the discovery of a silicone liner piqued my interest due to the promise of easier cleaning. Upon use, I am pleased to report that it’s a fantastic addition! The liner fits perfectly within the 7 qt crockpot, is easy to install and remove, and simplifies the cleaning process remarkably. I’d confidently recommend it to anyone looking to streamline their crockpot maintenance. Unlike plastic liners, it snugly protects the interior without the need to tuck it under the rim. Its sturdy build allows for the option to serve directly from it, and since it’s reusable, it’s also more economical in the long run.
Despite these benefits, there are some drawbacks. The condensation from the lid tends to drip around the liner, necessitating a clean-up of the ceramic part anyway. Additionally, after some use, my liner acquired a white film that was challenging to remove and became stained. Although it retains odors post-washing, the liner does not affect the cooking process, and food comes out as expected.
There are, however, some design flaws. For instance, built-in handles prevent the crockpot lid from closing properly, which is crucial for slow cooking. While the non-stick and easy-to-clean features of silicone are appreciated, I’ve noticed an odd taste which might not be perceivable to everyone. Also, there is still some concern about the safety of silicone, especially given past experiences with plastics.
Compatibility might be an issue for some, as the liner didn’t perfectly conform to the sides of my 7-qt Hamilton Beach Slow Cooker, causing it to fold. Trimming the top part of the liner is one potential solution to help the lid fit better. Despite these issues, the overall build quality appears solid, warranting a 4-star rating from me.
