Washing Your Air Fryer: Safe And Easy Steps

Air fryers are a great way to cook food quickly and with less oil. But, like any kitchen appliance, they need to be cleaned regularly to keep them in good working order and avoid a greasy build-up. So, can you wash an air fryer? The short answer is yes, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, always unplug the appliance and let it cool down before cleaning. Then, remove all the detachable parts and wash them in warm, soapy water. You can also use a soft-bristled brush to scrub away any stubborn grease or food residue. For a deeper clean, a paste made from baking soda and water can be applied to the affected areas and scrubbed away with a toothbrush. It's important to avoid using abrasive materials or metal utensils when cleaning, as these can damage the non-stick coating. While some air fryer parts are dishwasher-safe, hand washing is generally recommended to preserve the coating. Always make sure all components are thoroughly dried before reassembling the appliance.

How to clean removable parts

To clean the removable parts of your air fryer, follow these steps:

Step 1: Unplug and Cool

Always unplug your air fryer and let it cool down for at least 30 minutes before attempting to clean it. This is important for safety and to prevent burns.

Step 2: Remove Removable Parts

Take out all the removable parts, such as the basket, tray, pan, grates, and drawer. Some air fryers may have different designs, so familiarise yourself with your specific model.

Step 3: Wash Removable Parts

Fill your sink with warm to hot water and add mild dish soap. Use a soft cloth, sponge, or non-abrasive scrub brush to wash the removable parts. Use gentle motions to avoid damaging the non-stick coating. For stubborn grease or burnt-on food, create a paste with baking soda and water and apply it to the affected areas. Let it sit for 10-20 minutes, then gently scrub and rinse. Alternatively, you can use vinegar and baking soda or a mild vinegar solution to break down grease. If your air fryer parts are dishwasher-safe, you can also use the dishwasher, but this may cause the non-stick coating to wear off more quickly.

Step 4: Dry Removable Parts

Thoroughly dry all the removable parts with a soft cloth or let them air dry completely before reassembling your air fryer.

How to clean the main unit

To clean the main unit of your air fryer, you should never submerge it in water. Instead, use a damp cloth to wipe down the entire unit, including the control panel, to get rid of any food splatters or grease residue. If you notice any food stuck on the heating coil, use a soft dish brush to remove it.

Make sure to check the heating coil after each use, which is usually located at the top of the unit. If there is oil or residue on the coil, let the unplugged machine cool, then wipe the coil with a damp cloth or dish brush.

When cleaning the main unit, avoid using abrasive sponges, scourers, or metal utensils, as these can damage the non-stick coating.

How to clean the heating coil

To clean the heating coil of your air fryer, follow these steps:

Firstly, unplug your air fryer and let it cool down. It is important to ensure your safety by disconnecting the power source before cleaning, as well as allowing the appliance to cool to avoid the risk of burns.

Next, place the appliance upside down on a soft cloth to avoid scratches. This will give you access to the heating element and coil. You can then use a soft sponge or cloth with warm or hot water to clean the coil and remove grease and dirt. Do not use a steel wire brush or hard-bristled brush, as this may damage the coating of the heating element. If there are stubborn food residues stuck to the coil, you can use a soft-to-medium bristle brush to gently remove them.

Once you have cleaned the coil, return the appliance to its upright position and turn it on, letting it run for a few minutes without any food inside. This will help to catch any remaining loose residues in the pan.

Finally, dry all components thoroughly before reassembling your air fryer.

How to clean the exterior

The exterior of your air fryer should be cleaned less frequently than the interior, but it's still important to wipe it down regularly to prevent a greasy film from building up. Here's a step-by-step guide:

• Unplug the air fryer: Before cleaning any electrical appliance, it's important to ensure it is unplugged and switched off to cut off the electricity supply.
• Allow the air fryer to cool: Wait for your air fryer to cool down completely before attempting to clean it. This is important for safety reasons, as you don't want to risk burning yourself.
• Wipe down the exterior: Use a damp microfiber cloth to wipe down the exterior of the air fryer. Be gentle, especially around any buttons and controls, as some air fryers can mark easily. You can also use a light cleaning spray to help buff away any lingering marks or grease.
• Dry the exterior: Once you've wiped down the exterior, use a paper towel or a dry microfiber cloth to polish and dry the outside of the air fryer.
• Reassemble: Once the exterior is clean and dry, you can reassemble any removable parts and put your air fryer away until its next use.

Remember, it's important to clean your air fryer regularly to maintain its performance and prevent the build-up of dirt, grease, and grime, which can affect the taste of your food and potentially cause a fire hazard.

How often to clean an air fryer

Air fryers are easy to clean and maintain, but they do require regular cleaning to perform at their best. The frequency of cleaning depends on various factors, such as usage, type of food cooked, and personal hygiene standards. Here is a detailed guide on how often to clean your air fryer:

After Each Use:

• Clean the basket, tray, and pan: These parts should be washed after every use, either by hand or in the dishwasher, depending on the model. Leftover food particles, grease, and grime can build up and affect the taste and quality of your food.
• Wipe down the interior: It is a good idea to wipe down the inside of your air fryer after each use. Use a damp microfiber cloth or sponge with a mild detergent and avoid abrasive materials to protect the non-stick coating.
• Sanitize the touchpoints: Handles, buttons, and knobs can accumulate germs and bacteria from frequent touching. Use soap, anti-bacterial wipes, or a cleaning spray to keep these areas sanitized.
• Clean the exterior (optional): The outside of your air fryer does not require cleaning as often, but you may want to wipe it down with a damp cloth or cleaning spray to maintain its appearance and remove any fingerprints or grease buildup.

Every Few Uses:

Deep clean the interior and coil: Besides the regular cleaning of the basket, give the inside of your air fryer a more thorough clean every few uses. Use a sponge or cloth with warm water and a mild detergent solution to wipe down the interior, including the heating coil. Ensure all soap residue is rinsed off.

As Needed:

Clean the heating element: The heating element does not require frequent cleaning. However, every few months, inspect it for oil residue. If it appears dirty, unplug the appliance and clean it with a damp cloth, ensuring it dries thoroughly before use.

Before First Use:

Even if your air fryer is brand new, it is recommended to give it a quick clean before its first use to remove any factory smells or residue. Wash the basket in warm soapy water, and wipe down the interior and exterior with a damp cloth.

Frequently asked questions