Soaking Your Air Fryer Basket: Do's And Don'ts

Air fryers are a convenient and healthier alternative to deep fryers, but they can be a pain to clean. The best way to clean an air fryer basket depends on the type and extent of the mess. For light cleaning, it is generally recommended to wash the removable parts with warm water and dish soap and to wipe down the interior and exterior of the fryer. However, for tougher messes, such as caked-on residue, it may be necessary to soak the basket in warm, soapy water for an extended period before scrubbing. Some people also recommend using a mixture of vinegar and baking soda to remove stubborn grease and grime. While there are various methods and products that can be used to clean an air fryer basket, it is important to consult the manufacturer's instructions and avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrubbers that could damage the non-stick coating.

Soaking time

Soaking your air fryer basket is a great way to loosen tough-to-scrub grime and grease. The soaking time can vary depending on the level of dirt and the method you choose.

For a standard soak, fill the basket with warm water and add a few squirts of dish soap. Let the basket soak for at least 20 minutes to an hour. If you have a severely dirty air fryer basket, you can also add a splash of vinegar to the mix to help disinfect and remove odours.

Another method is to fill the basket with about an inch of soapy water and set the air fryer to 370°F for three minutes. The steam and moisture will help loosen the grease and make it easier to clean. After the time is up, dump out the liquid and repeat the process if necessary.

If you're looking for a quicker option, you can try a combination of dish soap, baking soda, and vinegar. Squirt dish soap all around the basket, add two tablespoons of baking soda, and pour in hot water until it's almost full. Let it sit for about a minute, then add two tablespoons of vinegar. Let the solution sit for another 10 minutes before rinsing and scrubbing with a soft-bristled toothbrush if needed.

It's important to note that you should always refer to your manufacturer's instructions before cleaning your air fryer, as some parts may not be suitable for soaking or submerging in water. Additionally, avoid using abrasive cleaners and scrubbers, as they can damage the non-stick coating.

Cleaning products

Air fryer baskets can be tricky to clean due to the sticky, greasy residue that builds up over time. However, with the right cleaning products and techniques, you can effectively remove this residue and keep your air fryer in good condition. Here are some recommended cleaning products and methods to help you tackle the job:

Dish Soap and Warm Water Soak

One of the most popular methods for cleaning air fryer baskets is to use dish soap and warm water. Start by filling your sink or a large container with warm water and adding a generous amount of dish soap. Submerge the air fryer basket in the soapy water and let it soak for at least 20 minutes to an hour. This will help loosen the grease and stuck-on food particles. After soaking, you can use a soft sponge or scrub brush to gently scrub away any remaining residue. Rinse the basket thoroughly with clean water and dry it completely before using it again.

Baking Soda and Lemon Paste

Baking soda is a mild abrasive that can help lift away grease and grime without scratching the surface of your air fryer basket. To use this method, create a paste by mixing two tablespoons of baking soda with the juice of half a lemon and a teaspoon of hot water. Apply the paste directly to the basket and use a soft toothbrush or sponge to gently scrub the surface. Rinse and dry the basket as usual. This method will not only clean your air fryer but also leave a pleasant lemon scent.

Vinegar and Lemon Juice Steam

This method combines the power of vinegar and lemon juice to create a steam cleaning effect. Add 1/4 cup of white vinegar and the juice of half a lemon to a ceramic ramekin and place it inside your air fryer. Set the temperature to 370-400 degrees Fahrenheit and let it run for about five minutes. Then, turn off the air fryer and let the steam continue to work for another 30 minutes. This method helps loosen grease and neutralise odours, but it may not be as effective at removing stuck-on food particles.

Commercial Cleaning Products

There are also several commercial cleaning products on the market that can be useful for cleaning your air fryer basket. For example, "Dawn Powerwash" is a popular dish soap that is known for its grease-cutting power. You can also try "Fairy Platinum Quick Wash," which is specifically designed for tackling grease. Another product mentioned by air fryer users is "Barkeepers Friend," which is a powerful cleaning solution that can cut through grease effectively. However, it is important to note that some of these commercial products may be too harsh for non-stick surfaces, so always check the product's suitability before use.

Additional Tips

• It is recommended to clean your air fryer basket after each use or at least every other time you use it to prevent the buildup of grease and food residue.
• Always allow your air fryer to cool down completely before handling and cleaning.
• Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrubbers, as these can damage the non-stick coating and exterior of your air fryer.
• For tough, stuck-on messes, you can use a soft-bristled toothbrush or a toothpick to gently dislodge the residue.
• If your air fryer has a strong odour, try rubbing a lemon over the basket and letting it sit for about 30 minutes before washing.

Temperature

One method recommends filling the basket with water and adding a few drops of dish soap, then turning on the air fryer for two minutes, followed by a rinse. Another method suggests filling the basket with an inch of soapy water, setting the air fryer to 370°F, and letting it cook for three minutes. A third method recommends filling the chamber halfway with soap and water, then air frying the basket at 350°F for five minutes. However, it's important to note that this last method may not be effective in removing tough stains.

To clean the interior of your air fryer, including the coil, you can use warm water and a towel or warm soapy water to dissolve any cooked-on grease. For the exterior, you can use a damp cloth or rag with warm water, followed by a dry towel.

When soaking your air fryer basket, it's generally recommended to use hot or warm water to help loosen and remove grease and grime. However, it's important to exercise caution when combining water and electricity, as it can be dangerous. Always refer to your manufacturer's instructions for specific cleaning guidelines.

Drying

John Somerall, Food & Wine's Editorial Project Manager of Food Research and Testing, warns that "moisture is the enemy when it comes to storage, and any lingering moisture can promote bacterial growth, which can create an unexpected and disappointing surprise the next time you decide to enjoy the benefits of your air fryer".

It's also important to make sure that you thoroughly rinse the basket before drying it, to remove any residual soap or chemicals.

Once your basket is completely dry, you can reassemble your air fryer and put it away for storage.

Frequency

Soaking your air fryer basket is an effective way to clean it, but how often should you do it?

It is recommended that you clean your air fryer after each use. This will prevent a build-up of grease and grime, which could cause odours, malfunctions, or even a fire. However, a deep clean is not necessary every time.

A light cleaning can be done by washing the basket in warm water and dish soap, then drying it overnight. You can also wipe down the interior of the fryer, including the heating element, with a damp, soapy cloth or sponge. Repeat this process with a clean, damp cloth, and then a dry cloth. Finish by wiping the exterior with a soft cloth.

For a deeper clean, you can soak the basket in hot, soapy water for 20 minutes to an hour, and then scrub it with a soft sponge. You can also fill the basket with an inch of soapy water, set it to 370°F, and let it cook for three minutes. The steam and moisture will help to loosen and remove the grease.

It is important to note that you should never submerge the whole air fryer in water, and you should avoid using abrasive cleaners and scrubbers, as these could damage the non-stick coating.

So, in terms of frequency, a light cleaning should be done at least every other time you use the air fryer, while a deeper clean can be done less often, depending on how much grease and grime has built up.

Frequently asked questions