How To Clean Your Air Fryer With Heat

Air fryers are a convenient kitchen appliance, but they need to be cleaned regularly to maintain performance and ensure food safety. While some people suggest cleaning an air fryer by putting water in it and turning it on, this is not recommended as it can damage the appliance and won't effectively clean it. So, can you heat clean your air fryer? The short answer is no. Here's what you need to do instead.

How to clean the air fryer basket

To clean the air fryer basket, it is important to be gentle and avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could damage the non-stick coating. Here is a step-by-step guide:

• Unplug the air fryer and let it cool down completely. This is an important safety precaution before handling and cleaning the appliance.
• Remove any loose bits of food from the basket. Take out as many food particles and remnants as possible before washing.
• Fill the basket with warm water. Make sure the water level is high enough to cover the grime and stuck-on food particles.
• Add a few squirts of dish soap. You can also use a grease-cutting liquid dish soap, such as Dawn, for better results.
• Let the basket soak. Allow the soapy water to sit in the basket for about 5 to 10 minutes. This will help loosen the tough-to-scrub grime and make it easier to wash away.
• Optionally, you can add some vinegar to the mix. Vinegar is a naturally antibacterial liquid that helps disinfect and deodorize while removing grit.
• After soaking, gently scrub the basket with a non-abrasive sponge or soft-bristled toothbrush. Avoid using steel wool or metal utensils as they can damage the non-stick coating.
• Rinse the basket thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue.
• Dry the basket completely before using or storing it. You can use a microfiber towel to dry it, or let it air dry.

By following these steps, you can effectively clean your air fryer basket, removing stuck-on food, grease, and grime while maintaining the condition of the non-stick coating.

How to clean the air fryer's heating element

To clean the heating element of your air fryer, you should first unplug the appliance and let it cool down completely. Once it's cool, follow these steps:

• Place a soft cloth on a flat surface and turn the air fryer upside down on it. This will help you access the heating element without scratching the appliance.
• Use a soft sponge or cloth with hot water to clean the heating element. Be sure to wipe away any grease or residue that has accumulated.
• If there is stubborn food residue stuck to the heating element, use a soft or medium bristle brush to gently remove it. Avoid using a steel wire brush or a hard bristle brush, as this could damage the coating of the heating element.
• Make sure the heating element is completely dry before reassembling the air fryer.

It is important to clean the heating element regularly, as grease can accumulate and reduce the efficiency of your air fryer over time.

How often to clean an air fryer

It is recommended that you clean your air fryer after every use to prevent the buildup of grease and food particles, which can affect its performance and cooking results. Regular cleaning also ensures food safety and prevents unpleasant odours.

After each use, let the air fryer cool down, unplug it, and remove the basket, tray, and pan for cleaning. Wash these removable parts with warm, soapy water and a non-abrasive sponge or cloth. You can also put these parts in the dishwasher, but hand washing is recommended to preserve the non-stick coating. Wipe down the interior and exterior of the air fryer with a damp cloth. Make sure to dry all parts thoroughly before reassembling the air fryer and storing it in a clean, dry place.

In addition to this regular cleaning routine, it is advisable to perform a deeper clean at least once a month or more frequently if you use your air fryer often or cook greasy foods. During this deeper clean, pay special attention to the heating element, using a soft brush or toothbrush to gently remove any accumulated grease or residue. Remember to always unplug the air fryer and ensure it is completely cool before beginning any cleaning process.

To save time and effort, you can use air fryer liners or parchment paper to catch food drippings and prevent them from sticking to the basket. Additionally, wiping down the air fryer regularly, especially after cooking greasy foods, can help maintain its cleanliness.

How to clean an air fryer's heating coil

To clean an air fryer's heating coil, follow these steps:

• Unplug the air fryer and let it cool down completely.
• Place a soft cloth on a flat surface and turn the appliance upside down on it. This will help protect the air fryer from scratches and make it easier to access the heating element.
• Use a soft sponge or cloth with hot water to clean the heating element. Be sure to wipe away any grease or residue that has accumulated.
• If there is stubborn food residue stuck to the heating element, use a soft or medium bristle brush to gently remove it. Avoid using a steel wire brush or a hard bristle brush, as this could damage the coating of the heating element.
• Once the heating element is clean, return the appliance to its upright position and let it run for a few minutes without any food inside. This will help loosen any remaining residue, which can then be wiped away.
• Make sure the heating element is completely dry before reassembling the air fryer.

It is important to clean your air fryer's heating coil regularly to prevent a buildup of grease and residue, which can affect the performance of your appliance and impact the taste of your food.

How to dry an air fryer

To dry an air fryer, you must first clean it. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to dry an air fryer after cleaning:

Step 1: Unplug the air fryer

Turn off and unplug your air fryer. This is important for safety reasons and to prevent any electrical accidents while cleaning.

Step 2: Clean the air fryer

Clean the air fryer basket, tray, and pan with warm, soapy water. These removable parts can be washed by hand or placed in the dishwasher if they are dishwasher-safe. Check your air fryer's instruction manual to be sure. Make sure to dry them thoroughly with a microfiber cloth or towel before moving on to the next step.

Step 3: Wipe down the main unit

Use a damp cloth to wipe down the entire unit, including the control panel, to remove any food splatters or grease residue. Do not immerse the main unit in water, as this can damage the appliance. If there is food stuck on the heating coil, use a soft dish brush to remove it gently.

Step 4: Dry the air fryer

Towel-dry or air-dry all parts of the air fryer completely before reassembling. It is important to ensure that all components are fully dry before putting the air fryer back together to prevent any issues with performance or malfunction.

Step 5: Reassemble the air fryer

Once all the parts are clean and completely dry, reassemble the air fryer according to the manufacturer's instructions. Ensure that everything is properly aligned and securely in place.

It is also important to note that you should regularly deep clean your air fryer in addition to cleaning it after each use. Deep cleaning involves cleaning the heating element and interior of the air fryer, which can be done with a soft brush or toothbrush and a damp cloth.

Frequently asked questions