Using Degreaser In An Air Fryer: Safe Or Not?

Air fryers are a great kitchen appliance, but they can be a pain to clean. While they use less grease than traditional fryers, there will still be grease to clean up. A dirty air fryer can lead to food particles getting stuck in places they shouldn't, which could cause problems with the appliance. To avoid this, it's recommended to clean the basic components of your air fryer every time you use it. But what's the best way to do this?

Some people recommend using a simple mix of dish soap and water, but this can only do so much when it comes to removing baked-on grease. Other home solutions include a mixture of baking soda and water, or vinegar and lemon juice steam. While these methods can be effective, they can also be time-consuming and require a lot of scrubbing.

A faster and more effective way to clean your air fryer is to use a dedicated degreaser. Products like Simple Green All-Purpose Cleaner, Clorox Bleach-Free Dishwashing Liquid, and Dawn Powerwash Spray are all popular choices for cutting through grease and grime. When using these products, it's important to follow the instructions and test them on a small area first to ensure they don't damage the coating of your air fryer.

In addition to using the right products, it's also important to use the right tools when cleaning your air fryer. Avoid using metal utensils, steel wool, or abrasive sponges as these can damage the non-stick coating. Instead, opt for non-abrasive scrubbing sponges like a Dobie Pad or an old toothbrush.

What products can be used to clean an air fryer?

Keeping your air fryer clean is important for maintaining its performance and ensuring food safety. Regular cleaning will prevent a buildup of grease and food particles, which could affect the cooking process and create unpleasant odours.

Dish Soap and Water

A mild dish soap and warm water are effective for cleaning removable parts such as the basket, tray, and pan. This method can also be used to wipe down the interior and exterior of the air fryer. However, it may not be the best option for removing baked-on grease, as it can take some time and effort.

Baking Soda and Water

Baking soda is known for its cleaning and antibacterial properties. It can be mixed with water to form a paste, which can then be applied to the air fryer, left to sit, and scrubbed off. This mixture is effective in removing stuck-on food and grease. However, it may not be as effective as other methods for breaking down baked-on grease.

Vinegar and Lemon Juice

A mixture of vinegar and lemon juice can be used to clean the air fryer through steaming. Fill a ceramic ramekin with vinegar and lemon juice, place it in the air fryer and turn it on for a few minutes. Let the steam do its work, and then wipe down the interior. This method helps loosen grease and oil but may not be as effective for removing stuck-on food.

All-Purpose Cleaner

An all-purpose cleaner, such as Simple Green All-Purpose Cleaner, can be used to clean the interior and exterior of the air fryer, as well as removable parts. It is effective in removing grease, grime, and stains without leaving behind any harmful chemicals.

Air Fryer Liners

Using air fryer liners, such as parchment paper or silicone liners, is a simple way to reduce mess and make cleanup easier. These liners catch food drippings and prevent them from sticking to the basket.

Other Tips

• Always unplug and allow the air fryer to cool down before cleaning.
• Avoid using harsh chemicals, abrasive sponges, or metal utensils, as they can damage the non-stick coating.
• Deep clean your air fryer regularly, especially if you cook greasy foods frequently.
• Dry all parts completely before reassembling the air fryer.

How often should you clean an air fryer?

Air fryers are a convenient and healthier alternative to traditional frying methods, but they still require some maintenance and cleaning. It is recommended that you clean your air fryer regularly, especially the removable parts, to prevent food residue build-up, which can alter the taste of your food and cause problems with the appliance. Here's a detailed guide on how often you should clean your air fryer and the best way to do it:

Cleaning Frequency:

• After Each Use: It is advisable to clean the removable parts of your air fryer, such as the basket, tray, and pan, after each use. This helps prevent food particles from accumulating and keeps your food tasting great.
• Deep Clean Once a Month: In addition to the regular cleaning after each use, it is recommended to perform a deep clean of your air fryer about once a month or after cooking particularly greasy meals. This involves cleaning the interior and exterior of the base unit, including the heating element and the grease drip pan.
• Wipe Down as Needed: Aside from the regular cleaning routine, it is good practice to wipe down the exterior of your air fryer as needed. Use a damp cloth or sponge to remove any stuck-on food or grease from the outside of the appliance.

Cleaning Process:

• Cooling Down: Before cleaning your air fryer, always make sure it has completely cooled down. This can take around 30 minutes.
• Removable Parts: Fill the basket, tray, and pan with warm water and a mild dish soap or a specialised degreaser. Let them soak for a while to help loosen any burned-on grease or food residue. Then, use a soft-bristle brush or a non-abrasive sponge to scrub away any remaining gunk. Rinse thoroughly and ensure all soap residue is removed. Some air fryer components might be dishwasher-safe, but always check the manufacturer's instructions first.
• Interior and Exterior Wiping: Use a damp microfiber cloth or sponge with a small amount of dish soap to wipe down the interior and exterior of the base unit. Pay special attention to the heating element, carefully wiping it with a damp cloth without soap.
• Drying: Before reassembling the air fryer, ensure that all parts are completely dry to avoid any electrical issues. Leave the disassembled air fryer to air dry for 30-60 minutes, then inspect and wipe down with a dry cloth if needed.

By following these simple steps and maintaining a regular cleaning routine, you can keep your air fryer in top condition, ensuring optimal performance and delicious fried treats!

What is the best way to clean an air fryer basket?

How to Clean an Air Fryer Basket

Air fryers are fantastic kitchen appliances that can cook delicious, crispy food with minimal grease. However, they do still require some grease clean-up and maintenance to keep them in good working order. Here is a step-by-step guide to cleaning your air fryer basket, as well as some general tips on air fryer maintenance.

Step 1: Turn off and Remove Removable Pieces

Firstly, turn off your air fryer and unplug it from the power source. Then, remove the basket and any other removable pieces, such as trays or pans.

Step 2: Wipe Down the Outside

Mix a solution of 1 ounce (2 tablespoons) of an all-purpose cleaner with 1 cup of water in a spray bottle. Spray this onto a damp cloth or sponge and wipe down the outside of the air fryer.

Step 3: Clean the Interior

Spray an all-purpose cleaner or a solution of dish soap and water onto a clean, damp cloth or sponge and wipe down the interior of the air fryer. For stuck-on food, scrub with a soft sponge or soft-bristle brush. Follow up with a plain damp cloth.

Step 4: Clean the Removable Pieces

Fill the basket and any other removable pieces with hot water and a degreasing dish soap. Let this sit for 10-30 minutes, then scrub with a non-abrasive sponge or cloth. Rinse and dry completely before replacing the pieces in the air fryer.

Alternatively, you can use a mixture of vinegar and baking soda. Apply this to the dirty areas of the basket, leave for a few minutes, then scrub and rinse.

Step 5: Check the Coil

Wipe down the heating coil with an all-purpose cleaner or a solution of dish soap and water. Follow up with a plain damp cloth.

General Air Fryer Maintenance Tips:

• Always allow your air fryer to cool down before cleaning.
• Clean your air fryer regularly to prevent a build-up of grease and food particles, which could cause it to malfunction.
• Do not use metal utensils, steel wool, or abrasive sponges as these can damage the non-stick coating.
• Do not put the air fryer basket in the dishwasher unless the manufacturer's instructions say this is safe to do so.
• Do not use a mixture of vinegar and baking soda to clean the air fryer, as this will cause a chemical reaction that can damage the metal coating.
• Do not fill your air fryer with water and turn it on as a cleaning method. This could short out the electrical mechanisms.

What is the best cleaning brush for an air fryer?

When it comes to cleaning an air fryer, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, it's important to clean your air fryer regularly, especially after cooking greasy foods, to prevent a build-up of stuck-on grease and food particles, which could cause malfunctions or even kitchen fires. It's also crucial to let the air fryer cool down before cleaning and to avoid using metal utensils, steel wool, or abrasive sponges as these can damage the non-stick coating.

Now, onto the brushes. While a toothbrush is recommended by some as a cost-effective option for cleaning an air fryer, there are several other brushes on the market that can make the task easier. Here are some options:

Air Fryer Grill Brushes

These brushes are designed specifically for cleaning air fryer racks and are made of stainless steel bristles with a wooden handle. They are safe to use on stainless steel racks and can effectively remove food, grease, and debris without scratching the surface. The ideal handle length for ease of use is around 8 inches, which provides a good balance between portability and leverage.

Deep Fryer Cleaning Brushes

Deep fryer cleaning brushes are another option for cleaning air fryers. These brushes are typically longer, ranging from 20 to 27 inches, and are designed to clean the interior of deep fryers. They can be effective in removing grease and food residue from the coils and interior surfaces of the air fryer. Some brushes are heat-resistant and can withstand temperatures up to 750°F.

Multipurpose Cleaning Brush Sets

If you're looking for a more versatile option, multipurpose cleaning brush sets can be useful. These sets typically include a variety of brushes with different bristle materials such as nylon, brass, and stainless steel. They can be effective for cleaning not only air fryers but also other household items like grout, tiles, and tight spaces.

Cast Iron Brushes

Cast iron brushes are designed for cleaning cast iron cookware, but they can also be useful for air fryers. These brushes typically have sturdy bristles and a comfortable grip, making them effective for removing stubborn residue.

Electric Grill and Panini Press Brushes

These brushes are designed for cleaning electric grills and panini presses, but they can also be useful for air fryers, especially if you're looking for a more heavy-duty option.

When choosing a cleaning brush for your air fryer, consider the size and material of the brush, as well as the type of bristles, to ensure it is safe and effective for your specific air fryer model. Additionally, always refer to your air fryer's manual for specific cleaning instructions and precautions.

How do you clean a dirty air fryer basket?

To clean a dirty air fryer basket, you'll first want to remove the basket from the fryer. It's important to let the basket cool down before cleaning to avoid burning yourself. Once the basket is cool, you can start by knocking out any loose crumbs and oil. You can then wipe the basket with a paper towel to grab any remaining bits.

Next, you'll want to fill the basket with warm water and add a few drops of dish soap. You can let this sit for a while and then gently scrub with a non-abrasive sponge or cloth until all the build-ups are removed. If you're dealing with caked-on residue, you can fill the basket halfway with warm water and add a few drops of dish soap. Let this sit for about 10 minutes before gently scrubbing.

If you're looking for a faster method, you can create a paste with baking soda and lemon juice and scrub the basket with a soft toothbrush. This method will help neutralise any odours in your air fryer basket.

It's important to avoid using anything abrasive when cleaning your air fryer basket, as this can damage the non-stick coating. You should also avoid using metal utensils, steel wool, or abrasive sponges.

Once you're done scrubbing, be sure to wipe all components dry with a clean towel and let them air dry completely before putting them back in the air fryer.

Frequently asked questions