Instant Love!
Getting to know your Instant Pot pressure cooker.
![](https://instantpotmy.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Open-Lid-150x150.png)
Open Lid
Turn counter-clockwise.
![](https://instantpotmy.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Sealing-Ring-150x150.png)
Sealing Ring
Make sure it’s snug behind the sealing ring rack. Removable and should be cleaned often.
![](https://instantpotmy.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Steam-Release-150x150.png)
Steam Release
Found on top of the lid. Turn handle to seal the cooker or release the trapped steam.
![](https://instantpotmy.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Close-Lid-Turn-150x150.png)
Close Lid Turn
Turn clockwise until the lid fins line up over the base handles.
![](https://instantpotmy.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Anti-Block-150x150.png)
Anti-Block
Prevents food from clogging the steam release pipe. Removable and should be cleaned often.
![](https://instantpotmy.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Float-Valve-150x150.png)
Float Valve
Found on top of the lid. Drops down into the lid when the cooker has depressurized.
New and Improved
How to use and install our latest upgrades
3 Ways to Release Pressure
![](https://instantpotmy.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Natural-Release-150x150.png)
Natural Release (NR)
Pressure releases on its own over time. May take 10 to 40+ minutes, depending on the volume of food and liquid.
![](https://instantpotmy.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Quick-Release-150x150.png)
Quick Release (QR)
Turn the steam release handle from the “Sealing” position to the “Venting” position when cooking is complete.
![](https://instantpotmy.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Combination-Release-150x150.png)
Combination
Use a combination of Natural Release and Quick Release. Recipe will instruct you on the timing.