My husband found this little silicone thing in the sink while doing the dishes. I have no idea where it came from, but I swear I’ve seen it before. Any ideas?

How the seal could have been lost: common scenarios

How the Seal Could Have Been Lost:
Common Scenarios There are several ways a float valve seal can end up in the sink. During cleaning, it can easily detach from the float valve and go unnoticed, especially if it blends in with other kitchen items. Alternatively, it may have come loose while transferring the pressure cooker to the sink for washing. Another possibility is that it was accidentally knocked off the counter and then ended up in the sink. Given its small size and inconspicuous appearance, it’s easy to see how it could be misplaced.

Recognizing the Seal: Why It Looks Familiar
The reason the seal looked familiar is likely due to its frequent use in our kitchen. As part of our pressure cooker, it was handled many times, both during cooking and cleaning. Its distinctive shape and material make it stand out once recognized, but in the hustle and bustle of daily life, it’s easy to overlook. Familiarity comes from its repeated presence in our cooking routine, even if we don’t consciously register it every time.

Steps to Take If You Find
a Loose Gasket If you find a silicone gasket like this, the first step is to check its origin. Check your kitchen appliances, especially pressure cookers, for missing parts. Once identified, make sure it is clean and intact before reattaching it to the float valve. It is crucial to inspect the pressure cooker for other missing or damaged parts to avoid future accidents. Consider keeping a spare gasket on hand, as they are inexpensive and can be easily replaced if lost or damaged.

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