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The strainer basket on a centrifugal juicer is a metal piece that filters the pulp out of the juice as the blades chop up the food items. The strainer is often a delicate mesh screen that requires careful handling. Over time and with improper cleaning, the strainer can develop dried or stuck-on food, which can make it stick to the inside of the juicer. A bent or damaged strainer may also become stuck.

Remove the plunger and the cover from the top of the juicer. Remove the blade assembly that sits on top of the strainer basket. Examine the strainer basket for signs of stuck on or dried food that may be causing the basket to stick to the juicer housing.

Fill a small bowl with warm water. Add a drop of dishwashing liquid and dip an old toothbrush into the soapy water. Gently scrub the stuck on food in the strainer basket until it loosens and comes off. Lift the basket out of the housing. If it still will not come out, it is probably bent and you will need to replace it.

Grasp the edge of the strainer basket with needle nose pliers and pull up. If it does not come out, look along the edge of the strainer to see if any part is dented and therefore blocking the basket from being removed. Grasp the bent section with the pliers and gently undo the dent. Pull the basket out.