You can definitely use a crockpot without a liner. While using a liner can make cleanup easier, it is not a necessary component for cooking in a slow cooker. Many people choose to cook without a liner and simply clean the crockpot afterwards.
When cooking without a liner, it is important to properly grease the crockpot to prevent food from sticking to the sides. You can use cooking spray, butter, or oil to grease the crockpot before adding your ingredients. This will help ensure that your food does not burn or stick to the surface.
Cleaning a crockpot without a liner may require a bit more effort, but it is still relatively easy to do. Once you have finished cooking, allow the crockpot to cool down before cleaning. Then, use warm soapy water and a sponge or cloth to gently scrub the interior. Be careful not to use any abrasive materials that could scratch the surface of the crockpot.
If you encounter stubborn stains or food residue, you can try soaking the crockpot in warm soapy water for a while before scrubbing. Some people also find it helpful to use a paste made of baking soda and water to help remove tough stains.
While using a liner can make cleanup quicker and easier, it is not essential for cooking in a crockpot. Many people choose to cook without a liner and find that with proper greasing and cleaning, their crockpot remains in good condition.
Personally, I have cooked in a crockpot without a liner many times and have never had any issues. I find that as long as I grease the crockpot before adding my ingredients and clean it thoroughly afterwards, it is not difficult to maintain.
Using a crockpot without a liner is absolutely possible. It may require a bit more effort in terms of greasing and cleaning, but it can save you the cost of purchasing liners and is a viable option for slow cooking.