Air Fryer Basket: Can You Buy A Replacement?

Air fryers are a versatile kitchen appliance that can air fry, roast, bake, broil, crisp, dehydrate and reheat foods. There are two main types of air fryers: basket air fryers and air fryer ovens. Basket air fryers have a removable basket in which you put food. Air fryer ovens look similar to toaster ovens and have racks inside on which you put food. Air fryer baskets can be purchased separately as replacement parts.

Where to buy a new basket for your air fryer

If you're looking to buy a new basket for your air fryer, there are a few options available to you. Firstly, it's worth checking with the manufacturer of your air fryer to see if they offer replacement baskets. You can usually do this by searching for your air fryer model on the manufacturer's website or by contacting their customer service team.

If you're unable to find a replacement basket directly from the manufacturer, there are several online retailers that offer air fryer baskets. Here are some places you can try:

• EBay: Replacement trays for air fryers can often be found on eBay. It's important to read reviews to ensure that the basket you purchase will fit your particular air fryer model.
• Amazon: Amazon offers a wide variety of air fryer accessories, including replacement baskets. While you may not find official manufacturer parts, you can often find compatible baskets that fit your specific model.
• Specialty Stores: Depending on your location, there may be specialty stores that offer air fryer parts and accessories. For example, Best Buy offers a range of air fryer baskets for various models.
• Walmart: Walmart offers a selection of air fryer baskets and accessories, including non-stick replacement baskets and crisper tray sets.
• PowerXL: PowerXL offers replacement parts and accessories for their air fryers, including baskets compatible with specific models.

Pros and cons of a dual basket air fryer

Yes, you can buy a new basket for your air fryer, either from the manufacturer or on eBay or Amazon.

Now, here are the pros and cons of a dual basket air fryer:

Pros

• Cook two things at once: You can cook multiple items and portions simultaneously, so you don't need to keep the first batch warm while the second cooks.
• Dietary requirements: You can cook vegetarian and meat dishes separately, or cater to different dietary preferences.
• Combine the two cooking spaces: Some models have one large cooking basket and a divider, so you can cook larger items such as a whole roast chicken.
• Easy to clean: The baskets are generally compact and easier to fit in the dishwasher.

Cons

• Takes up more space: Dual basket air fryers are bigger and heavier, so you'll need to ensure you have enough space and clearance for ventilation.
• Cooking larger items can be awkward: The cooking space may be limited, especially if you opt for a model with equally sized baskets.
• More expensive: Dual basket models tend to cost more than basic air fryers, with prices starting at around £100.

Overall, a dual basket air fryer offers more versatility and cooking capacity but comes at a higher cost and requires more space.

How to clean an air fryer basket

Yes, you can buy a new basket for your air fryer. However, if you're looking to clean your current air fryer basket, there are several methods you can try. Here is a detailed guide:

Warm Water and Dish Soap Soak

This is a common and effective method. Fill your sink with warm water and add some dish soap. Soak the air fryer basket in this solution for at least 20 minutes to loosen any grease and grime. Then, use a non-abrasive sponge or scrub brush to gently clean the basket. Rinse the basket thoroughly with clean water and dry it before using it again.

Baking Soda and Lemon Paste

Baking soda is a mild abrasive that can remove stuck-on food particles without scratching the surface of your air fryer basket. Mix two tablespoons of baking soda with the juice of half a lemon and add a teaspoon of hot water to form a paste. Apply this paste directly to the basket and use a soft toothbrush or sponge to scrub away any residue. Rinse and dry the basket afterward.

Vinegar and Lemon Juice Steam

This method is useful if you want to remove strong odours from your air fryer basket. Combine 1/4 cup of white vinegar with the juice of half a lemon in an oven-safe ceramic ramekin. Place the ramekin inside the air fryer and set the temperature to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Run the air fryer for five minutes and then let it sit for 30 minutes with the basket closed to allow the steam to work. Remove the ramekin and wipe down the basket with a clean cloth or sponge.

Dawn Dish Soap Steam

Fill the air fryer basket with water and a few drops of Dawn dish soap. Run the air fryer for about two minutes, then rinse the basket with clean water. This method is a quick way to cut through grease without scrubbing.

Dawn Dish Soap, Baking Soda, and Vinegar

Squirt some Dawn dish soap into the air fryer basket, then add two tablespoons of baking soda and enough hot water to fill the basket almost to the brim. Let this solution sit for a minute, then add two tablespoons of white vinegar. Allow it to sit for another 10 minutes. The combination of dish soap, baking soda, and vinegar will break down stuck-on food and grease. Pour out the solution, rinse the basket, and use a soft sponge to scrub away any remaining residue.

Dawn Powerwash, Baking Soda, and Hydrogen Peroxide

Create a paste by mixing two tablespoons of baking soda, two tablespoons of hydrogen peroxide, and two sprays of Dawn Powerwash. Apply this paste to the air fryer basket and gently scrub with a soft toothbrush for about two minutes. Rinse the basket with water, using the non-abrasive side of a sponge to remove any remaining paste. This method effectively removes stuck-on food, grease, and odours.

It is important to note that you should always consult your air fryer's user manual before attempting any cleaning methods. Some manufacturers may have specific instructions or recommendations for cleaning their products. Additionally, always use non-abrasive cleaning tools to avoid damaging the coating on your air fryer basket.

Air fryer safety precautions

Yes, you can buy replacement baskets for air fryers. However, it is important to note that not all manufacturers offer replacement baskets, and you may need to purchase a new air fryer if your current one is malfunctioning.

Read the manual

Always read the manual provided by the manufacturer before using your air fryer. It will contain important information on how to use the appliance safely.

Avoid overloading the food basket

Do not overcrowd the food basket. Leave space between the food and the heating component to prevent the risk of starting a fire.

Unplug the air fryer after use

Once you are done cooking, unplug the air fryer to ensure that all heating components are turned off and do not accidentally turn on.

Use oil sparingly

Air fryers require little to no oil. Adding too much oil could result in a fire.

Provide adequate ventilation

Air fryers have air vents that release heat. Ensure that there is enough space around the air fryer for proper ventilation. Pull the air fryer away from the wall, and open windows if you don't have an extraction fan.

Place the air fryer on a stable surface

Place your air fryer on an even, stable surface to prevent it from toppling over during use.

Do not leave unattended

Never leave an air fryer unattended while in use. Food can burn quickly, and if you're not nearby, it could pose a safety hazard.

Clean regularly

Grease and food debris can accumulate in the air fryer. Regularly clean your air fryer to prevent any buildup that could catch on fire. Most parts of the air fryer are dishwasher-safe, but always read the manual to be sure.

Allow to cool before cleaning

Do not clean the air fryer immediately after use. Give it at least 30 minutes to cool down before cleaning to avoid burning yourself on hot surfaces.

Handle with care

Use oven gloves when handling the air fryer during and immediately after use, as the internal and external components can get very hot. Place hot baskets and lids on a trivet or heat-safe surface to protect your worktop.

Refrigerate leftovers promptly

Leftover food should be refrigerated within two hours to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.

Air fryer recipes for beginners

Yes, you can buy a new basket for your air fryer. You can find replacement trays on eBay, Amazon, or directly from the manufacturer.

Now, for some air fryer recipes for beginners.

Breakfast

An air fryer can be used to make a light and customizable breakfast frittata. You can load your frittata with whatever you like, be it a bouquet of herbs or ham and cheese.

If you're craving something savory, try making Scotch eggs. This recipe takes the deliciousness of traditional Scotch eggs without the mess and added fat of deep frying.

For something sweet, try air fryer French toast sticks. Dredge bread in an egg, milk, and cinnamon mixture before air frying to a golden brown. You can also try air fryer cinnamon donuts or peanut butter cookies.

Main Course

For a simple and tasty main course, try air fryer chicken tenders, chicken thighs, or chicken sandwiches with sriracha mayo. You can also make tuna burgers, garlic-butter steak, or salmon.

If you're vegetarian, try air fryer sweet potato fries, butternut squash, or eggplant sticks.

Snacks and Sides

For a crispy and tangy snack, try chili-lime air-fried chickpeas. You can also make air fryer pickles or zucchini fries.

Dessert

For dessert, try air fryer brownies or banana bread. You can also make air fryer cookie pie or churros.

Frequently asked questions