How To Clean Your Air Fryer With Water?

Air fryers have become increasingly popular in recent years, and with that, a variety of cleaning hacks have emerged on social media platforms such as TikTok. One such hack involves filling the air fryer basket halfway with soapy water and turning the appliance on for a few minutes to self-clean. While this method may seem appealing, it is not recommended by experts, including home safety and electrical professionals. The consensus is that it is not a good idea to put a significant amount of water and soap into your air fryer as it could lead to leaks or splashes that damage the machine. Instead, the best way to clean an air fryer is to follow the manufacturer's guidelines, which typically involve washing removable parts with warm, soapy water and wiping down the main unit with a damp cloth.

Air fryer cleaning hacks

Air fryers have become a kitchen staple in recent years, and like any other kitchen appliance, they need to be cleaned regularly. While some people opt for traditional scrubbing methods, there are a few hacks that can make cleaning your air fryer faster and more efficient.

The TikTok Hack

A popular hack that has been making its rounds on TikTok involves filling the air fryer basket halfway with soapy water and then air frying it for three to five minutes. While this method may seem appealing, many experts, including home safety and electrical professionals, advise against it. Air fryers are not designed to accommodate large amounts of liquid, and doing so could lead to leaks or splashes that damage the appliance. The amount of steam generated from heating soapy water can also be an issue, and the appliance may not be able to heat the water sufficiently.

The Right Way to Clean Your Air Fryer

• Always unplug the air fryer and let it cool down completely before cleaning.
• Remove the basket, tray, and pan. These removable parts can be washed by hand with soap and warm water or placed in the dishwasher if they are dishwasher-safe.
• For the main unit, avoid submerging it in water. Instead, use a damp cloth or a soft dish brush to wipe down the entire unit, including the control panel and the heating coil.
• Dry all the parts thoroughly before reassembling the air fryer.
• For tough, baked-on grease, create a paste with baking soda and water. Apply it to the affected areas and let it sit for about 10 minutes before scrubbing gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
• To prevent food buildup, spray the bottom insert with cooking spray before each use.
• Use air fryer liners or filters to keep food from frying directly on the insert. These can be easily disposed of after each use.
• Clean the basket after each use, especially if there are visible bits of food.
• For light cleaning, a damp paper towel or a microfiber cloth can be used to wipe down the air fryer.

Additional Tips

• Always refer to the manufacturer's guidelines and instructions for cleaning your specific model of air fryer.
• Avoid using metal utensils or abrasive cleaning tools as they can damage the non-stick coating.
• To clean the heating element, dip a microfiber cloth in hot soapy water, wring it out, and gently wipe the element. Rinse the cloth often and allow the element to air dry completely before using the air fryer.
• A 50:50 mixture of distilled white vinegar and hot water can also be used to cut through greasy residue.

Potential dangers of using water to clean an air fryer

While the "TikTok cleaning hack" of filling your air fryer with soapy water and turning it on for a few minutes may seem appealing, it is not without its potential dangers. Here are some reasons why you should think twice before attempting this cleaning method:

Potential Electrical Hazards

The first and most important concern is the potential for electrical hazards. Water and electricity are a dangerous combination. Before cleaning your air fryer with water, it is crucial to ensure that the appliance is turned off, unplugged, and completely cooled down. Failing to do so could result in electrical shocks or even start a fire.

Damage to the Heating Element

The heating element of an air fryer is delicate and sensitive. It should never be soaked in a sink of soapy water. If you need to clean it, always unplug the air fryer first. Then, use a damp microfiber cloth or paper towel to gently wipe down the heating element. Make sure to dry it thoroughly before using the air fryer again.

Ineffective Cleaning and Soap Residue

In some cases, the TikTok cleaning hack may not effectively remove stubborn stains and residue. You may still need to resort to traditional scrubbing or soaking methods. Additionally, if you don't run a second cycle with clean water, soap residue may be left behind, affecting the taste of your food and causing an unpleasant smell.

Spraying Water onto the Element

The powerful fan inside an air fryer can cause water to spray up and onto the heating element. This can be dangerous, as it may lead to electrical issues or damage the appliance. It is always safer to clean the air fryer basket and drawer separately in the sink using a non-scratch sponge.

Damage to the Nonstick Coating

Air fryers typically have a nonstick coating on the basket and insert. Using metal utensils or abrasive cleaning tools can damage this coating. It is recommended to use a microfiber cloth or a non-abrasive sponge to preserve the nonstick surface.

In conclusion, while the idea of a quick and easy cleaning hack is tempting, it is important to prioritize safety and effectiveness when cleaning your air fryer. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and use appropriate cleaning methods to ensure the longevity of your appliance and your safety.

How to clean an air fryer without water

Filling your air fryer with water is a popular cleaning hack, but it doesn't work for everyone. To clean your air fryer without water, follow these steps:

Step 1: Unplug the Air Fryer

Before you start cleaning, make sure the appliance is turned off, unplugged, and completely cooled down. This is an important safety precaution to avoid any accidents.

Step 2: Prepare the Cleaning Solution

In a small bowl, mix two tablespoons of baking soda with the juice of half a lemon. Then, add a teaspoon of hot water to create a paste. Baking soda is a mild abrasive that effectively removes dirt without scratching the surface. Lemon has natural antibacterial properties and leaves a fresh scent.

Step 3: Apply the Cleaning Solution

Pour the paste directly into the air fryer basket and use a soft toothbrush or sponge to gently scrub the interior surfaces. You can also use a soft-bristled toothbrush dedicated to cleaning, ensuring that you do not scratch the non-stick coating.

Step 4: Rinse and Dry

After scrubbing, thoroughly rinse the air fryer basket with warm water to remove any residue. Dry the basket and insert with a microfiber towel, and ensure they are completely dry before using or storing the air fryer.

Alternative Methods:

If the above method does not remove all the grime, you can try the following alternative methods:

• Dawn Steam: Fill the basket with water and add a few drops of Dawn dish soap. Turn on the air fryer for two minutes, then rinse and dry.
• Vinegar and Lemon Juice Steam: Combine 1/4 cup of white vinegar with the juice of half a lemon in a ceramic ramekin. Place the ramekin in the air fryer, set it to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, and let it run for five minutes. Leave the air fryer closed for another 30 minutes to allow the steam to loosen the grease.
• Dawn, Baking Soda, and Vinegar: Squirt dish soap all around the air fryer basket, add two tablespoons of baking soda, and pour in hot water until it is almost full. Let it sit for a minute, then add two tablespoons of white vinegar. Allow this solution to sit for 10 minutes before pouring it out and rinsing the basket.
• Dawn Powerwash, Baking Soda, and Hydrogen Peroxide: Mix two tablespoons of baking soda, two tablespoons of hydrogen peroxide, and two sprays of Dawn Powerwash directly in the air fryer basket to form a paste. Gently scrub the basket with a soft toothbrush for about two minutes, then rinse with water using the non-abrasive side of a sponge.

How to clean an air fryer basket

Filling an air fryer with water to clean it is not recommended, as it can damage the appliance and won't effectively clean it. Instead, follow these steps to clean your air fryer basket:

Step 1: Unplug the air fryer and let it cool

Always unplug the air fryer and let it cool down completely before cleaning. This is important for safety reasons and will also make it easier to handle.

Step 2: Remove the basket

Take out the basket and any other removable parts, such as the tray and pan. These can usually be washed just like any other dish—with soap and warm water. If you don't want to wash them by hand, check your instruction manual to see if they are dishwasher-safe.

Step 3: Soak the basket

If your basket has a lot of stuck-on food or grease, you may want to soak it in hot, soapy water for 10-30 minutes before washing. This will help to loosen the grime and make it easier to clean.

Step 4: Wash the basket

After soaking, wash the basket and any other removable parts with warm, soapy water. Use a non-abrasive sponge or cloth to avoid damaging the non-stick coating. You can also use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently scrub away any stubborn residue.

Step 5: Rinse and dry

Rinse the basket and all components thoroughly to remove any soap residue. Then, dry everything completely with a microfiber towel or cloth before using or storing your air fryer.

Additional tips:

• To remove baked-on grease, create a paste with baking soda and water and apply it to the affected areas. Let it sit for about 10 minutes, then scrub and rinse.
• To freshen your air fryer and remove odours, sprinkle baking soda into the basket and let it stand overnight before rinsing.
• To reduce mess and make cleaning easier, use air fryer liners or parchment paper to catch food drippings.
• Wipe down your air fryer regularly, especially after cooking greasy foods, to prevent the need for deep cleaning.

How to clean an air fryer with vinegar

Filling your air fryer with water to clean it is not recommended, as it can damage the electrical unit and make it unsafe for use. However, you can use a mixture of vinegar and water to clean your air fryer. Here's how:

Step 1: Unplug and Allow to Cool

Before you start cleaning, make sure your air fryer is unplugged and has completely cooled down.

Step 2: Prepare the Cleaning Solution

Mix equal parts vinegar and warm water in a spray bottle. You can also add a teaspoon or two of lemon juice to make the mixture smell nicer. Alternatively, you can create a paste by mixing baking soda and vinegar.

Step 3: Apply the Solution

Spray the solution onto the areas that need cleaning, including the basket and grate. You can also pour the mixture into the basket and let it soak for a few minutes. If you're cleaning the heating element, spray the solution onto a soft cloth and gently wipe it down. Avoid applying the solution directly to the heating element or fan.

Step 4: Wipe Down

After allowing the solution to sit for a few minutes, use a gentle abrasive pad, sponge, or soft-bristled toothbrush to wipe away the grease and grime. Rinse the air fryer basket and grate with clean water.

Step 5: Reassemble and Dry

Once all the parts are completely dry, reassemble your air fryer. You may want to give it a final wipe-down with a clean, dry cloth to remove any remaining vinegar residue, as it can affect the taste of your food.

Tips:

• Clean your air fryer regularly, especially after each use, to prevent stubborn grease and food buildup.
• Avoid using metal utensils or harsh abrasives, such as steel wool, as they can scratch and damage the non-stick coating.
• Always consult the manufacturer's instructions for specific cleaning guidelines for your air fryer model.

Frequently asked questions