DIY Instant Pot Sling – Step-by-Step Guide

Safely elevate or lower delicate dishes in your Instant Pot with ease! Learn how to create a homemade sling and unlock new cooking possibilities.

Why You Need an Instant Pot Sling

Instant Pots are versatile, but lifting dishes in and out can be tricky. A DIY sling lets you lower or lift containers safely—perfect for cheesecakes, broths, and more.

Materials Needed

• One long strip of heavy-duty aluminum foil

How to Make a DIY Instant Pot Sling

1. Measure the pot: Use a measuring tape to measure the diameter and depth of your Instant Pot.
2. Cut the foil: Tear a strip long enough to span across the pot and fold it lengthwise several times to make a sturdy strip (1.5–2 inches wide).
3. Form the sling: Fold until it’s strong enough to support the dish.
4. Place inside the pot: Let the ends rest over the edge while the center cradles the dish or container.
5. Add your dish: Center the container on the sling.
6. Lower carefully: Grip both ends and slowly lower the container into the Instant Pot.
7. Cook as usual: Follow your recipe instructions.
8. Remove safely: Use oven mitts to lift the dish out by the foil handles.
9. Reuse or discard: You can wash and flatten the foil for reuse, or toss if it’s dirty or torn.

Tips for Best Results

• Use heavy-duty foil to avoid tearing.
• Always wear oven mitts when handling hot foil.
• Consider a silicone sling if you cook with one often.

When to Use a Sling in the Instant Pot

• Pot-in-pot (PIP) cooking: Ideal for rice, desserts, or steaming.
• Cheesecakes and custards: Prevents spills when using a springform pan (see recipe).
• Large meat cuts or broths: Easier removal after cooking (meatloaf recipe).
• Sous vide: Easily lower and raise sealed bags (NY strip sous vide).
• Boiling eggs or egg bites: Avoid cracked shells or messy spills (eggs, egg bites).

FAQ

Can I reuse the foil sling?

Yes! If it’s still clean and intact, just flatten and reuse.

What if I don’t have heavy-duty foil?

You can double up regular foil, but a reusable silicone sling is a better long-term option.

Is this method safe?

Yes, if you fold the foil properly and use oven mitts for heat protection.

Try This Hack Today!

Whether you’re making desserts, broths, or egg bites, a DIY Instant Pot sling is a game changer. Let us know how it worked for you in the comments!