The Ninja BN701 Professional Plus is a go-to for many home chefs, known for its powerful 1400-peak-watt motor and large capacity pitcher. But even with a strong build and smart presets, this blender still needs regular care to perform at its best. From blade hygiene to deep-cleaning tips, this maintenance guide walks you through everything you need to know to extend the lifespan of your Ninja BN701 and keep your blends consistently smooth.
Table of Contents
Why Regular Maintenance Is Essential
The BN701 is designed for high-volume blending, but it can lose effectiveness quickly without consistent upkeep. Here’s what poor maintenance can lead to:
- Residue buildup on blades and under the pitcher
- Stubborn odors or discoloration in the pitcher
- Mold growth under the rubber gasket
- Reduced blade rotation efficiency and motor overheating
Avoid these issues by following the steps below.
1. Daily Cleaning: Fast and Effective Post-Use Routine
Right after each use, you should clean the blender to prevent food from drying on key components.
Quick Clean Steps (Self-Clean Mode)
- Rinse the pitcher immediately with warm water.
- Fill halfway with warm water and 1–2 drops of dish soap.
- Place the pitcher back on the base and pulse for 30 seconds.
- Dump the soapy water and rinse thoroughly.
- Let air dry with the lid off to prevent trapped moisture.
Avoid using abrasive pads or harsh cleaners; they can cloud the pitcher and wear down gasket seals.
2. Deep Cleaning for Odors and Stains
For Odors
- Fill the pitcher with equal parts white vinegar and warm water
- Let it sit for 15 minutes, then pulse for 30 seconds
- Rinse and repeat as needed
For Stubborn Stains (like turmeric or berries)
- Make a paste with baking soda and water
- Use a soft cloth to scrub the stained areas
- Avoid blade contact, use a soft brush for areas around it
Want more blender-specific stain removal tricks? Explore our cleaning walkthroughs for every major blender model.
3. Blade and Pitcher Assembly Care
The BN701 has removable blades, which makes cleaning easier — but it also means more parts to keep an eye on.
How to Clean the Blade Assembly
- Carefully lift the blade stack from the pitcher (always by the shaft, never the sharp edges)
- Rinse thoroughly under warm water
- Use a soft brush to remove trapped food around the base
- Let air dry upright
Gasket and Lid Seal
- Remove the lid gasket weekly
- Wash separately and dry thoroughly
- If you notice cracking or mold, replace it with a genuine Ninja part
4. Cleaning the Motor Base
Never submerge the base or get water near the buttons or vent.
How to Safely Clean It
- Unplug the unit
- Wipe down the surface with a damp microfiber cloth
- Use a dry brush to clean around buttons and air vents
- Avoid spraying directly or using cleaning chemicals
5. Troubleshooting Common Issues
Blades Not Spinning?
- Check for food clogging the blade base
- Re-seat the pitcher firmly on the base
- Ensure all parts are properly locked before use
Leaking from Bottom?
- Double-check the blade assembly seal
- Ensure gasket is correctly positioned
- Do not overfill — keep under the MAX line
Motor Overheating?
- Let it rest for 20–30 minutes
- Don’t run extended cycles continuously
- Check the vent under the base for dust blockage
6. Long-Term Maintenance Tips
| Tip | Why It Helps |
|---|---|
| Clean right after use | Prevents stuck-on food and odor |
| Deep clean monthly | Keeps jar fresh and stain-free |
| Inspect gaskets weekly | Stops leaks and mold buildup |
| Use proper blending order | Reduces strain on blades and motor |
| Store pitcher dry | Avoids moisture traps and mold |
Conclusion: Clean Blender, Better Blends
The Ninja BN701 Professional Plus can handle almost anything you throw at it — but only if it’s well-maintained. A little routine care will prevent performance issues, reduce cleaning headaches, and help your blender stay in top shape for years.
Curious how the BN701 stacks up against other Ninja models? Get the full breakdown with our Ninja BN701 review, including testing insights and comparisons.
FAQ: Ninja BN701 Cleaning & Maintenance
Can I put the BN701 pitcher in the dishwasher?
Yes, the pitcher, lid, and blade assembly are top-rack dishwasher-safe. However, hand-washing helps preserve clarity and gasket flexibility.
How do I prevent the lid from smelling?
Rinse and dry the lid immediately after use. You can also soak it in vinegar water monthly to kill bacteria and odors.
Is the blade assembly replaceable?
Yes. You can order replacement blades directly from Ninja if they become dull, warped, or damaged.
Why does my blender smell like burning?
It’s likely overheating. Let it cool down and clean the vent area. Avoid overloading or blending without liquid.
Where can I learn more about general blender care?
Visit our master maintenance guide for universal tips across all blender models and brands.
Quick Checklist
- ✅ Rinse and clean after each use
- ✅ Soak in vinegar monthly
- ✅ Wash the lid gasket weekly
- ✅ Use soft sponges, no abrasives
- ✅ Avoid overfilling and overheating
