Rice cookers are a fantastic invention, saving time and making rice cooking easy. But have you ever noticed the small dots on the rice scoop that comes with every rice cooker? Most people think they’re to prevent rice from sticking, but that’s not the real purpose.

Despite the nonstick coating, rice, especially sticky rice, can cling to the pot. “Many people still do not know what the small grains on the rice scoop are used for.” The dots on the scoop are designed to help with this problem.

These dots are tougher than a cloth but gentler than an iron scrubber, so they won’t scratch the pot. “Just massage lightly, and the sticky rice will come off.” After that, you can finish cleaning with a soft towel.

Instead of using a sponge or damaging the coating with an iron brush, the rice scoop’s dotted side can easily loosen the rice. Simply soak the pot, then use the scoop to clean without damaging your cookware.