VACUUM SEALER
CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE
Your ICO vacuum preservation system is easy to clean and care for. Simply
observe the following steps:
1. Do not overfill the bags: leave enough length at the open
end of the bag so that it can be placed in the Vacuum Sealing Chamber easily.
◆Always unplug the unit before cleaning.
2. Ensure that the open end of the bag is not wet. A wet bag will may seal
incorrectly or not at all.
◆Wipe the outside of the appliance with a damp cloth or sponge and mild soap if
necessary. Do not use industrial strength cleaners.
3. Vacuum sealing is NOT a suitable replacement for canning. Perishables still
need to be refrigerated or frozen once they have been sealed.
◆To clean the inside of the unit, wipe away any food or liquid with a damp
paper towel.
4. To prevent wrinkles in a seal when vacuum sealing bulky items, gently
stretch the bag flat when inserting it into the vacuum chamber and hold
tight until the seal completes.
◆Dry thoroughly before storage or reuse.
◆Keep the unit on a flat, safe surface. Do not allow children to use this device.
VACUUM SEALING AND FOOD SAFETY
6. When using accessories, remember to leave an inch of space at the top
of the canister or container.
The vacuum sealing process extends the life of foods by removing most of the air from
the sealer container or bag. This reduces oxidation, which affects nutritional value,
flavor, and over quality. Removing air can also inhibit the growth of microorganisms,
which can cause mold, yeast, and bacteria.
To preserve foods safely, it is critical that you maintain low temperatures. You can
significantly reduce the growth of bacteria at temperatures of 40°F (4°C) or below.
Freezing does not kill microorganisms but it does stop them from growing. For long-
term storage, always freeze perishables that have been vacuum sealed.
Vacuum sealing cannot reverse the deterioration of foods. It can only slow down the
changes in quality. It is difficult to predict how long foods will keep their flavor,
appearance and texture. VACUUM SEALING IS NOT A SUBSTITUTE FOR
REFRIGERATION OR FREEZING.
7. Pre-freeze fruits and blanch vegetables before vacuum sealing for the best
results.
8. If you are unsure whether your bag was sealed properly, you can seal the bag a
second time (simply seal it on the outside of the original seal).
9. For best results, use ICO brand Bags, Canisters, Containers and Accessories.
Your ICO Vacuum Sealing system is compatible with FoodSaver bags and other
major brands.
5. When you are vacuum sealing items with sharp edges (dry spaghetti,
silverware, etc.), protect the bag from punctures by wrapping items in a
soft cushioning material, such as a paper towel.
