Why clean it
With use, resin and residue build up on teeth and threads: the grinder struggles to turn, grinds worse and can jam. Regular cleaning makes it like new.
The freezer trick
Put the disassembled grinder in the freezer for 30 minutes: the cold makes resin and pollen brittle and easy to remove. Then use a brush (an old toothbrush works great) or a small brush to clear residue from teeth, chambers and sieve.
Deep cleaning (metal only)
For all-metal/aluminium grinders you can soak in isopropyl alcohol: leave the parts a few minutes, brush, then rinse and dry well. Avoid alcohol on grinders with plastic/acrylic parts or windows, as it can ruin them.
Recovering the pollen (kief)
In 3-4 part grinders with a sieve, kief collects underneath: gather it with the included scraper (or a playing card). It's the "reward" of a good multi-chamber grinder — one more reason to choose one with a pollen catcher.
How often
A quick brush every couple of weeks and a deep clean when it feels "hard" to turn. That way it lasts for years.
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FAQ
How do you unstick a jammed grinder?
Put it in the freezer for 30 minutes: the cold makes the resin brittle and the parts separate more easily. Then brush off the residue.
Can I wash the grinder with alcohol?
Yes if it's all metal/aluminium: soak in isopropyl alcohol, brush, rinse and dry. Avoid alcohol if there are plastic parts or windows.
What is the kief in the grinder?
It's the pollen that falls through the sieve and collects in the lower chamber of 3-4 part grinders. You recover it with the included scraper.
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