Unplug it first, then scrape with a narrow silicone spatula. For thick blends, unscrew the blade base and empty the jar from the bottom — or blend a splash of liquid to rinse the last of it into the glass.
The rule that comes first
Machine off, and unplugged, before a spatula goes near the blade. Lifting the jar off the base is not enough on every machine. Many blenders have a lid or jar interlock, but it is a backstop, not a reason to skip the plug — see can I run a blender without the lid.
Four ways to get it all out
1. A narrow silicone spatula, run round the walls and under the blade.
2. Unscrew the blade base, on blenders where it comes off, and empty the jar from the bottom. This is the only way the last of a nut butter or hummus comes out.
3. A splash of liquid and a 2-second pulse, which rinses the walls and blade into the glass — the trick for smoothies.
4. A tilt and a swirl, jar on its side, for thick soups.
Why some always stays behind
A thick mixture clings to the blade and the corners under it, in every jar ever made. The more surface there is around the blade, the more stays. Thin blends pour clean; thick ones do not. Make thick recipes in a bigger batch, so what stays behind is a smaller share.
Jar shape
A narrow base keeps food near the blade while blending, and makes it harder to scrape after. A wide jar is the opposite. Square and triangular jars break the vortex while blending; a round jar is easier to scrape out. See glass or plastic blender jar.
And the cleaning trick
Warm water, a drop of dish soap, 30 seconds on low — then rinse. Do it right away, before anything dries on. If the blade assembly comes off, wash the gasket separately now and then: that is where smells and leaks start. See the blender jars and blades page and what must never go in the dishwasher.
What readers want to know
Can I take the blade out to reach under it?
On many blenders, yes — the blade assembly unscrews from the bottom of the jar. Turn the jar upside down, unscrew the base, and the last of a thick smoothie or nut butter comes out from below. Reassemble it carefully: the rubber gasket must sit flat or the jar leaks. Blades are sharp — hold the base, not the blade.
What spatula works best in a blender jar?
A long, narrow silicone spatula reaches under the blade and bends round it without scratching the jar. Some blender makers sell a matching spatula; any narrow one works. Never use a metal spoon or knife near the blade.
How do I get the last of a smoothie out?
Add a splash of the liquid you used — milk, juice or water — and pulse for 2 seconds, then pour. It rinses the jar and the blade into the glass. For thick blends, a quick swirl of the jar on its side helps.
Last reviewed 18 October 2026