10 Blender Accessories Actually Worth Buying (and 3 to Skip)
The small add-ons that make blending easier, cleaner and more useful
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Details.
Your blender does the heavy lifting, but a few inexpensive accessories can make it noticeably easier to use, faster to clean and more versatile. Others are gimmicks that end up in the back of a drawer.
This guide covers 10 blender accessories that are genuinely useful, what each one is for, and 3 you can probably skip.
How we chose: These picks are based on common blender tasks, the problems readers ask us about most (stalling, stains, leaks, cleanup) and long-term owner feedback. We haven’t tested every product. Always check that accessories like tampers, jars and blade assemblies are listed as compatible with your exact blender model.
1. A tamper (if your blender supports one)
What it does: Pushes thick, frozen ingredients into the blades while the blender runs.
Why it’s worth it: It’s the single biggest upgrade for smoothie bowls, nut butters and frozen desserts. No more stopping, unplugging and stirring. See how to make a thick smoothie bowl.
Important: Only use a tamper designed for your blender and lid. Never use a spoon or spatula in a running blender.
2. A narrow blender spatula
What it does: Reaches down around the blades to scrape out every last bit.
Why it’s worth it: Thick smoothies, nut butter and dips cling to the jar. A narrow, flexible spatula gets it out and saves waste.
3. A long-handled cleaning brush
What it does: Scrubs the bottom of tall jars and around blades without putting your fingers near them.
Why it’s worth it: Safer and faster cleanup, especially for dried-on residue. Pair it with our 60-second cleaning method.
4. Spare gaskets
What it does: Replaces the rubber sealing ring under the blade assembly.
Why it’s worth it: Gaskets wear out, stretch and can grow mold. A spare means no downtime when yours needs replacing. See our blender gasket guide.
5. An extra or smaller jar
What it does: Gives you a second container, often in a smaller size.
Why it’s worth it: A smaller jar handles small batches (dressings, homemade baby food, single smoothies) far better than a big pitcher, because the blades reach the food. A second jar also means you can blend back to back without washing in between. Only buy jars listed as compatible with your model.
6. To-go cups or bottles
What it does: Lets you blend and go, especially with personal blenders.
Why it’s worth it: Great for commuters and post-workout shakes. Look for leak-proof lids and insulated options to keep smoothies cold.
7. Silicone ice cube trays with lids
What it does: Freezes coffee, juice, milk or smoothie leftovers in small cubes.
Why it’s worth it: Coffee cubes make frozen coffee drinks that don’t water down. Small cubes are easier on blenders than big ice blocks. See frozen coffee drinks in a blender.
8. Reusable freezer bags
What it does: Holds pre-portioned smoothie ingredients.
Why it’s worth it: Freezer packs turn smoothies into a two-minute breakfast. See our smoothie freezer pack guide.
9. A nut milk bag
What it does: Strains homemade almond milk, oat milk and cold brew.
Why it’s worth it: Much finer than a regular strainer, and reusable. See 15 things you can make in a blender.
10. A silicone mat for under the base
What it does: Absorbs vibration and protects your countertop.
Why it’s worth it: A thin mat makes blenders noticeably quieter. Just don’t block the air vents. See how to make a blender quieter.
The best blender accessories solve real problems: a tamper for thick blends, a spatula for scraping, and a brush for safe cleaning.
3 accessories you can probably skip
1. “Blade sharpening” kits and tricks
Most blender blades are designed to work by speed, not sharpness, and many manufacturers recommend replacing the blade assembly rather than sharpening it. See can you sharpen blender blades?.
2. Universal “fits all” blade assemblies and jars
Blender parts are model-specific. “Universal” parts often fit poorly, leak or wobble. Buy parts listed as compatible with your exact model, ideally from the manufacturer.
3. Single-purpose gadgets you won’t use
Spiralizer attachments, special “smoothie bowl” presses and novelty lids often get used once. If you can already do the job with a knife, a spatula or your existing blender, skip it.
Which accessories to buy first (by how you blend)
Not sure where to start? Match accessories to what you make most:
| If you mostly make… | Start with |
|---|---|
| Daily smoothies | To-go cups, reusable freezer bags, a long-handled brush |
| Smoothie bowls and nut butter | A tamper, a narrow spatula |
| Frozen coffee drinks | Silicone ice cube trays with lids, reusable straws |
| Dressings, dips and baby food | A smaller compatible jar, a narrow spatula |
| Homemade nut milk | A nut milk bag, glass bottles for storage |
| Early-morning smoothies in a shared home | A silicone mat under the base |
| Anything, every day | Spare gaskets and a cleaning brush |
How to look after your accessories
- Wash tampers, spatulas and brushes after each use, and let them dry fully before storing.
- Air out silicone trays and bags with the lids open. Silicone can hold smells if stored damp.
- Rinse nut milk bags straight away, turn them inside out and hang them to dry.
- Store spare gaskets in a sealed bag away from heat and sunlight, so the rubber doesn’t dry out.
- Replace worn items: frayed brushes, cracked cups and stretched gaskets don’t do their job.
How to check an accessory is compatible
- Find your blender’s model number, usually on a sticker under the motor base.
- Check the manufacturer’s accessories page, for example Vitamix, Ninja or NutriBullet.
- Match the model number exactly on third-party listings.
- Check the manual for any accessories that could affect your warranty.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most useful blender accessory?
For thick smoothies, smoothie bowls and nut butters, a tamper designed for your blender makes the biggest difference. For everyday use, a narrow spatula and a long-handled cleaning brush are the most useful.
Can I use a spoon instead of a tamper?
Never while the blender is running. Stop the blender, unplug it, stir with a spoon or spatula, then blend again. Only a tamper designed for your blender and lid should be used while it runs.
Are universal blender jars safe to use?
It’s best to avoid them. Blender jars, blades and couplings are model-specific. Parts that don’t fit exactly can leak, wobble or damage your blender.
Do I need a smaller jar for my blender?
If you often blend small amounts like dressings, baby food or single smoothies, a smaller compatible jar blends them much better than a large pitcher.
How often should I replace my blender gasket?
Many people replace it about once a year with daily use, or sooner if it’s cracked, stretched, stiff or moldy.
The bottom line
A few inexpensive accessories make a big difference: a tamper for thick blends, a narrow spatula, a long-handled brush, spare gaskets and a smaller jar top the list. Skip “sharpening” kits and universal parts, and always check compatibility with your exact model.
Not sure your current blender is right for you? Compare the different types of blenders before you upgrade.
We research blenders so you don't have to: we compare specs, warranties and thousands of owner reviews, and write practical guides for getting more out of the blender you already have.