Easy Off As Deep Fryer Cleaner: Safe Or Not?

Deep fryers are a great way to enjoy crispy, restaurant-quality food at home, but they can be a challenge to clean. While there are many ways to clean a deep fryer, one popular method is the boil-out method, which is also used in many commercial kitchens. This involves letting the fryer cool down, removing the basket and oil, wiping the basin, filling it with water and soap, and then turning it on to boil and clean. After 10 to 30 minutes, the fryer is turned off, the water is dumped, and the basin is rinsed. The boil-out method is effective at removing grease and reducing the amount of scrubbing required.

Some people also recommend using oven cleaner to clean a deep fryer. In a Reddit forum, one user suggests using Fume-free Easy Off to clean a deep fryer, noting that it doesn't mess up the surface finish. Another user recommends using Yellow cap Easy Off and warns to wear gloves as it can be harsh on the skin. However, it's important to note that oven cleaners or other chemical substances should only be used as a last resort, as they may require additional scrubbing and rinsing to remove all traces of the chemical before using the fryer again.

Safety precautions when cleaning a deep fryer

Deep fryers are a great way to cook food and add flavour and texture, but they can be dangerous if not used or cleaned correctly. Here are some safety precautions to follow when cleaning a deep fryer:

• Always allow the fryer to cool completely before attempting to clean it. Unplug the fryer and let it cool down for several hours.
• Never clean a fryer with hot oil in it. Remove the oil before cleaning by carefully lifting the oil reservoir and pouring the oil into a plastic bowl or container.
• If you plan to reuse the oil, use a strainer to remove any leftover food bits. If the oil is cloudy, very dark, or has an off-odor, dispose of it safely in the trash. Do not pour oil down the sink as it can cause plumbing issues.
• When cleaning the frying basket, use dish soap and hot water. A cleaning brush or toothbrush can help to loosen small bits of food.
• Never submerge the fryer in water or put it in the dishwasher. Avoid exposing any electrical parts to water to prevent damage.
• Use an abrasive sponge or straight plastic edge to scrape away any build-up on the sides or bottom of the fryer.
• When using soapy water, mix it in a measuring cup or pitcher and add it to the fryer, rather than placing the fryer in the sink.
• Be careful when boiling out the fryer. Keep an eye on the water level and do not let it boil away completely.
• After boiling, allow the fryer and water to cool completely before dumping out the water.
• Wipe down the inside and outside of the fryer with a cloth and soapy water to remove any remaining oil and grease.
• If there is still oil or grease left, use a baking soda paste to tackle it.
• Allow the fryer to dry completely before using it again.

In addition to these cleaning safety precautions, it is important to follow general safety guidelines when using a deep fryer, such as setting it up outdoors, using the right oil, preheating the oil to the correct temperature, and never leaving it unattended.

Step-by-step guide to cleaning a deep fryer

Step 1: Allow the fryer to cool

Before you start cleaning your deep fryer, it's important to unplug the appliance and let it cool down completely. This process can take several hours, so be sure to plan accordingly. Do not attempt to clean a fryer with hot oil in it, and never add water to a container of hot oil, as the mixture could explode.

Step 2: Remove the frying basket and oil

Take out the frying basket and place it in the sink. You can wash it with dish soap and hot water, using a cleaning brush or toothbrush to remove any small bits of food that may be stuck to it.

Next, remove the oil from the fryer. Carefully lift the oil reservoir and pour the oil into a plastic bowl or container. If the oil is still relatively clean, you can save it to reuse later. However, if the oil is cloudy, very dark, smelly, or has foam on top, dispose of it safely in the trash. Do not pour oil down the sink drain, as this can cause plumbing issues.

Step 3: Scrape and wipe down the fryer

Use an abrasive sponge or a straight plastic edge to scrape away any build-up on the sides, bottom, and corners of the fryer. Then, add a squirt of liquid dish soap to the inside of the fryer, along with hot water, being careful not to submerge the electrical parts in water. Plug the fryer back in and turn it on to bring the soapy water to a boil, which will help break down the remaining grease. Let the water boil for 5 to 10 minutes, depending on how dirty the fryer is.

Once the water has boiled, turn off the fryer, unplug it, and let it cool down completely. After it has cooled, dump out the soapy water and rinse the inside of the fryer to remove any soap residue. Use a rag or microfiber cloth to wipe down the inside and outside of the fryer, removing any remaining oil or grease.

Step 4: Tackle tough grease with baking soda (if needed)

If there is still a sticky film or stuck-on residue, you can create a paste with baking soda and hot water. Apply this paste to the affected areas and use a soft cleaning brush to work it in. If your fryer has a metal reservoir, you can use a steel wool sponge for tougher areas.

Step 5: Rinse and dry

Once your fryer is clean, rinse it thoroughly with clean water to remove any remaining soap or residue. Finally, let the fryer air dry completely before using it again.

Additional Tips:

• It is recommended to clean your deep fryer regularly, depending on how often you use it. If you deep fry at least once a week, aim to clean the fryer every three months.
• Always keep a box of baking soda nearby to extinguish a fire in case of an emergency.
• Choose an oil with a high smoke point, such as peanut, canola, or safflower oil.
• Keep track of how many times you reuse the oil and change it as needed.
• Make sure your food is dry before placing it in the fryer to prevent the oil from splattering.
• Never submerge your deep fryer in water or put it in the dishwasher.

How to clean a commercial deep fryer

Commercial deep fryers are essential to any restaurant kitchen, but they can get very messy and, if not cleaned properly, can ruin the flavor of food and cause appliance malfunction. Here is a detailed guide on how to clean a commercial deep fryer:

Step 1: Allow Fryer to Cool

Before you begin cleaning, it is important to unplug the deep fryer and let it cool down completely. This can take several hours as most fryers are kept at a constant heat of around 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Once the fryer has cooled to less than 150 degrees Fahrenheit, you can proceed to the next step.

Step 2: Remove Oil and Food Debris

Place a container under the fryer and carefully drain the oil. If the oil is still in good condition (not cloudy, dark, or smelly), you can strain it and reuse it. Otherwise, dispose of it safely. Next, use a scraper or spatula to remove any food crumbs or particles from the bottom of the fryer.

Step 3: Soak and Scrub the Basket

Remove the frying basket and soak it in warm, soapy water. You can add a few tablespoons of vinegar to help break down grease. Use a brush or sponge to scrub away any buildup, then rinse and set aside to air dry.

Step 4: Boil Out

Fill the fryer with water and a commercial degreasing solution up to the maximum oil line. You can leave the baskets and utensils inside the fryer during this step. Turn on the fryer and bring the water to a boil for at least 20-30 minutes to remove stuck-on grease. If the fryer is very dirty, you may need to let it boil for longer.

Step 5: Cool and Drain

Turn off the fryer and allow the water and solution to cool completely before draining. Set aside the baskets and utensils for additional cleaning if needed.

Step 6: Wipe Down

Once the fryer is done draining, wipe down the interior with a clean, non-abrasive cloth or sponge. Pay special attention to areas where oil, grease, and food particles may be lingering. You can use a soft-bristled brush and a degreasing solution to scrub away any stubborn buildup.

Step 7: Rinse and Dry

Rinse the interior of the fryer with a rinsing agent and then again with clean water to remove any traces of the cleaning solution. Dry the fryer thoroughly with a lint-free cloth, making sure to wipe down the heating element as well.

Additional Tips:

• It is recommended to perform a deep fryer "boil out" at least once a month or weekly for high-use fryers.
• Cover the flooring and nearby equipment with plastic to protect against grease splatters during cleaning.
• Always check for gas leaks and ensure the fryer is unplugged before starting the cleaning process.
• Never submerge your deep fryer in water or put it in the dishwasher.
• To remove heavy carbon buildup, soak the fryer and baskets overnight with a detergent powder.

How to clean a deep fryer basket

Deep fryers are a great way to enjoy crispy, restaurant-quality food at home, but they can get messy. To keep your deep fryer in good working condition, it's important to clean it regularly and properly. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to clean a deep fryer basket:

Step 1: Unplug and Cool Down

Before you begin cleaning, always unplug your deep fryer and allow it to cool down completely. This is an important safety precaution. It may take several hours for the fryer to cool down, so be patient.

Step 2: Remove the Frying Basket

Once the fryer is cooled, remove the frying basket and set it aside. Place the basket in the sink or a large tub and wash it with dish soap and hot water. Use a cleaning brush or toothbrush to loosen any small bits of food that may be stuck to the basket.

Step 3: Drain the Oil

Before deep cleaning, remove the oil from the fryer. Do not pour the oil down the sink drain as it can cause plumbing issues. Instead, carefully lift the oil reservoir and pour the oil into a plastic bowl or container. If the oil is still relatively clean, you can strain it and reuse it. If the oil is cloudy, dark, smelly, or has foam on top, dispose of it in the trash.

Step 4: Clean the Fryer Basket

To clean the fryer basket, create a solution of vinegar and water. Mix 9 parts vinegar with 1 part water. Dip a cloth into this mixture and wipe down the basket. You can also soak the basket in this solution for a deeper clean. Rinse the basket thoroughly and dry it completely before proceeding to the next step.

Step 5: Make a Degreaser

Instead of buying a commercial degreaser, you can make your own at home. Take a bowl and add baking soda to it. Gradually mix in water until the baking soda forms a paste with a consistency similar to toothpaste. Stir the mixture well to ensure there are no lumps.

Step 6: Apply the Degreaser

Use a clean cloth to apply the degreaser mixture to the fryer basket. Cover the entire basket with the paste and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, scrub the basket thoroughly and rinse it again to remove the grease mixture.

Step 7: Reassemble and Dry

After cleaning the fryer basket, make sure to dry it thoroughly. Once it is completely dry, you can put the basket back into the fryer. Reassemble the fryer and ensure it is fully dry before using it again.

Additional Tips:

• If there is heavy dirt or grease buildup, you can use an oven cleaner, but be cautious when using strong chemicals. Ensure you wash the fryer basket thoroughly afterward to remove any chemical residue.
• For tough oil stains, you can use a spray of WD-40. Just be sure to remove all residues before using the fryer basket again.
• You can also use vinegar and hot water to remove sticky residue. Moisten a scrubber with hot water and vinegar to clean the surface of the appliance, then rinse it well.
• Always keep the electric components of the fryer dry to avoid accidents. Ensure the fryer is completely dry before plugging it back into an electric outlet.
• Clean your deep fryer basket regularly to maintain its longevity and ensure the best results for your fried food.

How to clean a deep fryer heating element

To clean a deep fryer heating element, you'll first need to identify whether it needs cleaning. The heating element will change colour, darkening or turning a thick brown colour, when it needs to be cleaned.

Before you begin, check your manufacturer's instructions to ensure you're cleaning the heating element correctly. Some models have removable heating elements, or elements attached to a hinge, which can be easier to clean.

Method 1

• Detach the heating element from the deep fryer.
• Mix baking soda with a small amount of vinegar or warm water until it forms a paste.
• Use the paste to coat the heating element.
• Leave it to sit for an hour.
• Mix mild soap with warm water.
• Dip a dry kitchen towel into the soapy mixture and use it to scrub the heating element. The baking soda residue should begin to fall off.
• Once the heating element is clean, use another dry towel and some warm water to wipe it down.

Method 2

• Pour a cup of vinegar into a wide bowl. The vinegar should be around 9% and the water 1%.
• Detach the heating element from the deep fryer.
• Coat the heating element with a mixture of baking soda and vinegar.
• Place the heating element into the bowl and leave it to sit for one to two hours.
• Using an old toothbrush, scrub the heating element. The dirt should begin to peel off.
• Remove the heating element from the bowl and clean it with a soft cloth.
• Dry the heating element thoroughly.

General Deep Fryer Cleaning Tips:

• Always unplug your deep fryer and let it cool down completely before cleaning.
• Never submerge your deep fryer in water, as this can cause electrical damage.
• Avoid pouring oil down your sink, as this can cause plumbing issues. Instead, dispose of it in a sealed container.
• Use a non-stick pan scraper or spatula to remove caked-on oil.
• Use a soft sponge and dish soap to scrub the fryer.
• Fill the fryer with hot water and let it sit for 30 minutes.
• Clean the frying basket in warm, soapy water.
• Rinse the deep fryer thoroughly and dry it with paper towels or a cloth.
• Clean or replace dirty filters on the fryer lid.
• Use baking soda to remove any remaining caked-on oil.
• Rinse the fryer with clean water and let it dry completely before using it again.

Frequently asked questions