Deep Fryer Cleaning: Oven Cleaner Safe?

Deep fryers can be a pain to clean, but there are several methods to make the task easier. One popular method is the boil-out technique, which involves draining the oil, adding water and a cleaning solution, and boiling the water to remove stuck-on food and grime. Another option is to use a commercial deep fryer cleaning solution or oven cleaner, which can help loosen baked-on grease and carbonized food. To save time and effort, some people recommend using a cordless drill with scrub pad attachments or a steel wool sponge to quickly remove buildup.

Deep fryer cleaning supplies

Deep-frying gives food a unique flavor and texture that is hard to replicate with other cooking methods. However, the downside of deep-frying is that it can be a messy affair, with oil splattering and building up over time. To keep your deep fryer in good working condition, it is important to clean it regularly. Here are some essential deep fryer cleaning supplies to help you get the job done effectively:

Heat-proof gloves, protective eyewear, and an apron:

Personal protective equipment is crucial when cleaning a deep fryer to shield yourself from hot oil and cleaning chemicals.

Oil container:

Before cleaning your deep fryer, you must remove the oil. Use a container made of heat-resistant material, such as metal or sturdy plastic, to safely collect and dispose of the oil.

Non-stick pan scraper or plastic putty knife:

Use this tool to scrape away any built-up grease or food residue from the sides and bottom of the fryer.

Sponge or soft-bristled brush:

A sponge or soft-bristled brush can help you scrub away remaining oil and grease. Choose a brush with synthetic bristles that can withstand high temperatures.

Baking soda:

When dish soap and hot water are not enough to cut through the grease, baking soda can be your secret weapon. Mix it with hot water to form a paste and apply it to stubborn areas.

Liquid dish soap:

A squirt of liquid dish soap combined with hot water creates a soapy mixture that can be boiled in the fryer to break down grease.

Microfiber cloths or paper towels:

Use clean, absorbent cloths or paper towels to wipe down the interior and exterior of the fryer, ensuring you remove all traces of oil and grease.

Commercial deep fryer cleaner:

For a more heavy-duty cleaning solution, consider a commercial deep fryer cleaner in powder, foam, or tablet form. These are designed to cut through grease and grime and can also be used on ovens and other high-temperature equipment.

Long-handled brush:

When cleaning a commercial deep fryer, a long-handled brush is essential for scrubbing the interior walls while draining the water.

Cleaning tools for hard-to-reach places:

Invest in specialized cleaning tools, such as L-shaped brushes, crumb scoops, and drain cleaning rods, to reach into tight spaces and remove built-up grease effectively.

Remember to always unplug your deep fryer and let it cool completely before attempting to clean it. Never submerge the fryer in water and avoid getting electrical components wet. With these supplies and a bit of elbow grease, your deep fryer will be sparkling clean and ready for your next culinary adventure!

How to clean the interior of a deep fryer

Step 1: Allow the Fryer to Cool

Before you start cleaning your deep fryer, it's important to let it cool down completely. Unplug the fryer and give it several hours to cool if it has been recently used.

Step 2: Remove the Frying Basket and Oil

Take out the frying basket and wash it in the sink with hot water and dish soap. A cleaning brush or toothbrush can help to remove any small pieces of food stuck to the basket.

Next, remove the oil from the fryer. Pour the oil into a plastic bowl or container. If the oil is still in good condition, you can strain it and reuse it. If it looks cloudy, dark, or smells bad, dispose of it in the trash. Do not pour oil down the sink as it can cause plumbing issues.

Step 3: Scrape and Wipe the Interior

Use an abrasive sponge or a straight plastic edge to scrape away any build-up on the sides and bottom of the fryer. Then, add a squirt of liquid dish soap and fill the fryer with hot water. Mix the soap and water, and use a cloth or sponge to wipe down the interior, removing any remaining sticky oil and grease. If there are stubborn spots, you may need to use a cloth dipped in soapy water.

Step 4: Boil the Soapy Water

Plug the fryer back in and turn it on to bring the soapy water to a boil. This process, known as "boiling out", helps to break down grease and grime. Let the water boil for 5 to 10 minutes, depending on how dirty the fryer is. Once done, turn off the fryer, unplug it, and let the water cool down completely.

Step 5: Rinse and Dry

After the water has cooled, dump out the soapy water and rinse the interior of the fryer thoroughly to remove any soap residue. Use a cloth to wipe down the inside of the fryer, ensuring it is completely dry before using it again.

Step 6: Tackle Tough Grease with Baking Soda (Optional)

If there are still areas with stubborn grease or stuck-on residue, create a paste with baking soda and hot water. Apply this paste to the affected areas and use a brush or sponge to scrub it clean. If your fryer has a metal reservoir, you can use a steel wool sponge for extra tough spots.

How to clean the exterior of a deep fryer

While oven cleaner can be used on the exterior surfaces of a commercial deep fryer, it is not recommended to use it on the outside of a home deep fryer. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to clean the exterior of a deep fryer:

Allow the fryer to cool completely

Unplug the deep fryer and let it cool down completely before you start cleaning it. It may take several hours for the fryer to cool off after use.

Remove the frying basket

Take the frying basket and put it in the sink. Wash it with dish soap and hot water. A cleaning brush or toothbrush can help loosen small bits of food stuck to the basket.

Remove the oil

Before you can start deep cleaning, remove the oil. Adding water to the oil can be dangerous. Carefully lift the oil reservoir and pour the oil into a plastic bowl or container. If the oil is still relatively clean, you can pour it back into the fryer after cleaning. If you plan to reuse the oil, pour it through a strainer to remove any leftover food bits. If the oil is cloudy, very dark, or smells bad, dispose of it in the trash. Do not pour oil down your sink drain as this can cause plumbing issues.

Scrape the sides and bottom

Work on a kitchen counter instead of placing the fryer in the sink. Use an abrasive sponge or a straight plastic edge to scrape away any build-up on the sides or bottom of the fryer. Work your way around the inside of the fryer, cleaning the sides and corners.

Boil out the fryer

Add a squirt of liquid dish soap to the inside of the deep fryer and fill it up with hot water. Plug the fryer in and turn it on to bring the soapy water to a boil, which is known as "boiling out" the fryer. 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 the water cool completely. Then, dump out the soapy water and rinse the inside of the fryer to ensure no soap is left.

Wipe down the exterior

Use an old rag or microfiber cloth and the same soapy water mixture to wipe down the outside of the deep fryer, removing any sticky oil spots. As oil can spatter during frying, you may also need to wipe down the cord with a cloth dampened with soapy water.

Tackle tough grease with baking soda (optional)

If there is still sticky residue on the fryer, add a spoonful of baking soda to a small bowl and mix in hot water to form a paste. Work the paste into the areas with stuck-on residue. If the reservoir is metal, you can use a steel wool sponge to scour dirty areas.

Finally, wipe down the fryer with a clean, dry cloth and let it air dry completely before refilling it with oil.

How to clean a deep fryer basket

Step 1: Prepare the Fryer Basket for Cleaning

Before you start to clean the deep fryer basket, unplug the fryer and allow it to cool down completely. Removing the power source is a safety precaution, and trying to clean a fryer basket that is still hot could result in burns. Once the fryer has cooled, remove the basket and set it aside.

Step 2: Clean the Basket

You can perform a preliminary clean of the basket by mixing a solution of 9 parts vinegar to 1 part water. Dip a cloth into this mixture and wipe down the basket. This will help to remove excess oil and food particles. If you have a large sink, you can also wash the basket in it using this vinegar and water solution. Alternatively, you can take the basket outside and rinse it with a hose.

Step 3: Make a Degreaser

Commercial degreasing products are available, but you can easily make your own at home. Simply mix baking soda and water together in a bowl until the mixture has a toothpaste-like consistency.

Step 4: Apply the Degreaser

Cover the basket with the degreasing mixture. You can use a cloth to scrub the basket, but it is best to let the mixture sit and do the work for you. After letting it sit, wipe the basket down and give it a good scrub to remove any remaining grease. Rinse the basket again to wash away any residue from the degreasing mixture.

Step 5: Reassemble the Fryer

Once the basket is clean and dry, it can be put back into the fryer. If the fryer itself is dirty, it should be cleaned separately.

Additional Tips:

• If there is heavy dirt or grease in the fryer, you can use an oven cleaner, but be careful when using strong chemicals. Make sure to wash the fryer thoroughly to ensure no chemicals remain before using it again.
• For tough grease stains, you can use a spray of WD-40, but be sure to remove all residues before using the fryer again.
• White vinegar is an excellent choice for cleaning grease off kitchen appliances due to its acetic acid content. However, vinegar should always be diluted with water before use, as the acids in straight vinegar can be harmful when cleaning items made of metal.
• To clean the outside of the fryer, use a damp cloth to wipe it down, ensuring you remove all sticky oil and grease.
• If there is still a sticky film or residue on the fryer after cleaning, you can use a paste made from baking soda and water to remove it.
• Always allow the fryer to dry completely before using it again.

How often to clean a deep fryer

The frequency with which you should clean your deep fryer depends on several factors, including the type of oil used, the food being fried, the amount of oil used, the frequency of use, and the maintenance of the fryer. Here are some guidelines and tips to help you determine how often to clean your deep fryer:

For Home Use

• If you use your deep fryer frequently, it is recommended to change the oil and clean it every few days to prevent a buildup of grime, which can be challenging to remove if left for too long.
• For less frequent use, such as once every couple of weeks, clean the fryer after each use.
• If you deep fry at least once a week, a thorough cleaning is recommended every three months.

For Commercial Use

• Commercial deep fryers require regular \"boil-out\" cleanings for optimal performance. This involves removing the old oil, adding water and a commercial deep fryer cleaning solution, and boiling it to remove grime and stuck-on food.
• The frequency of boil-out cleanings depends on the usage. A good rule of thumb is to perform a boil-out once a month for standard use, and once a week for high-use fryers.
• In a typical commercial setting, busy establishments may perform light fryer cleaning daily, with a deep clean twice a week.
• To extend the life of the fryer and improve energy efficiency, it is important to clean the carbonization from the fryer walls and coils regularly.
• The oil should be filtered and replaced frequently, especially when frying foods like fish and meat.
• It is recommended to brush the heating coils clean whenever the oil is drained to remove food particles and maintain the heating element's effectiveness.
• The exterior of the fryer should also be wiped down regularly to prevent the buildup of grime and to limit spillovers.
• A thorough "boil-out" clean using a specialized cleaning product should be performed every 3 to 6 months for commercial fryers.

Factors Affecting Cleaning Frequency

• Type of Oil: Different types of oil have varying smoke points and shelf lives. Oils with higher smoke points, such as peanut, canola, or safflower oil, can withstand higher temperatures before breaking down.
• Food Being Fried: The type of food being fried can impact the frequency of cleaning. For example, oil should be replaced more frequently when frying breaded, meat, poultry, or crumbly foods compared to non-breaded items or vegetables.
• Frequency of Use: The more frequently the fryer is used, the more often it will need to be cleaned. In a busy commercial setting, daily light cleaning and weekly deep cleaning may be necessary.
• Maintenance: Regular maintenance and proper care of the deep fryer can extend the time between deep cleanings. This includes daily tidying of the interior surface, changing the oil when necessary, and filtering the oil after each use.

Frequently asked questions