Air Fryer Cleaning: Dishwasher-Safe Trays?

Air fryers are a convenient and healthy way to cook food. They use little to no oil and are known for their convenience and speed. While they are easy to clean, it is important to know what can and cannot be put in the dishwasher. The non-stick coating on air fryer trays is prone to damage, so it is important to be cautious when cleaning them.

Air fryer trays with non-stick coating

Air fryer trays with a non-stick coating are designed to be easy to clean, but they do need to be handled with care to avoid damaging the non-stick surface. It's best to avoid using abrasive sponges or metal scrubbers, and disinfectants should be checked to ensure they are suitable for use on cooking surfaces. A paste made from baking soda and water applied with a sponge is a suitable cleaning method.

Some air fryer trays are dishwasher-safe, but it's important to check the manufacturer's instructions before attempting to wash non-stick air fryer trays in a dishwasher. If the non-stick coating is scratched or damaged, it may be unsafe to continue using the tray.

To avoid damaging the non-stick coating, it's recommended to hand-wash air fryer trays with soap and water, ensuring that they are cleaned after each use to prevent a build-up of oils and food particles. Lining the basket with foil or parchment paper can make cleaning easier, but it's important to ensure that the foil or paper is weighed down by food to prevent it from being sucked into the heating element.

Hand washing air fryer trays

While some air fryer trays are dishwasher-safe, many people opt to hand wash them to preserve the non-stick coating. Here are some tips for hand washing your air fryer trays:

• Allow the air fryer tray to cool down before washing. This is important for safety and to prevent warping of the pan.
• Use a small amount of mild dish soap and wash the tray by hand with a non-abrasive sponge or cloth. Soaps are very concentrated and can react negatively with the non-stick coating.
• Avoid aerosol sprays and metal utensils as these can also react negatively with the non-stick coating and cause flaking or scratching.
• Dry the tray thoroughly before reassembling the air fryer. Moisture can affect the performance of your air fryer and may even cause it to malfunction.

If your air fryer tray is particularly greasy or dirty, you can try the following methods:

• Soak the tray in warm, soapy water for 10-15 minutes to loosen stuck-on food, then scrub gently with a non-abrasive sponge.
• Create a paste with baking soda and water and use a sponge to clean the tray. This is a gentle, effective way to remove grease and grime.
• Fill the basket with water and add a few drops of dish soap. Turn on the air fryer for a couple of minutes, then rinse.

Using foil in the air fryer

It is safe to use foil in an air fryer. However, there are some important guidelines to follow to ensure safety and avoid damaging your appliance. Firstly, always check your air fryer model's instruction booklet for specific recommendations and tips from the manufacturer. Some manufacturers, such as Philips, advise against using foil, while others, like Frigidaire, approve its use as long as it is placed in the basket and not on the bottom of the fryer.

When using foil in the air fryer, it is crucial to ensure that it does not block the airflow. Air fryers work by circulating hot air, so placing foil on the bottom of the fryer or blocking the holes in the air fryer basket can constrict airflow and impact cooking. Therefore, only use foil in the bottom of the air fryer basket where the food sits, and make sure there is space for airflow around the food.

When using foil in the air fryer, always place food on top of the foil to weigh it down before turning on the appliance. This is important because if the foil is not secured, it could be sucked into the heating element and burn. It is also important to note that foil should not be used with acidic foods or foods marinated in highly acidic ingredients as the acid can break down the aluminium, giving your food a metallic flavour.

Parchment paper vs wax paper

While parchment paper and wax paper may look similar, they have distinct characteristics and uses.

Parchment paper is a kitchen essential, as it is oven-safe and can withstand temperatures up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. It is made from cotton fiber and/or pure chemical wood pulp and is treated with a thin layer of silicone, making it non-stick, heat-resistant, and moisture-resistant. Parchment paper is ideal for lining baking sheets and cake pans, wrapping food cooked en papillote, and even as a soft lid for reducing sauces. Its versatility and heat resistance make it a preferred choice over wax paper.

On the other hand, wax paper is not suitable for high-heat applications due to its wax coating, which can melt, smoke, and potentially catch fire at high temperatures. It is suitable for tasks that do not involve heat, such as rolling out dough, sifting and funneling dry ingredients, and wrapping leftovers like cheese, butter, or sandwiches. Wax paper is also useful for decorating treats and creating templates for designs, such as chocolate piping or powdered sugar stencils.

When deciding between parchment paper and wax paper, consider the presence of heat. Parchment paper is the better option when heat is involved, such as baking cookies or cakes, as it prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier. Wax paper, on the other hand, is preferable for tasks that do not involve heat, such as preparing dough or wrapping food for storage.

In summary, while both parchment paper and wax paper have their uses in the kitchen, they should not be used interchangeably due to their distinct characteristics and heat tolerances. Parchment paper is the go-to option for high-heat applications, while wax paper is best suited for non-heat tasks.

Cleaning an air fryer

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Unplug the air fryer

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

Step 2: Remove the basket and tray

Take out the removable parts, such as the basket, tray, and pan, and set them aside for cleaning separately. These parts can usually be washed with warm, soapy water in the sink or placed in the dishwasher, but always check your air fryer's manual to be sure. If there is stuck-on food or grease, you may need to soak these parts before scrubbing them gently with a non-abrasive sponge.

Step 3: Wipe down the interior and exterior

Use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down both the inside and outside of the air fryer. Be careful not to use abrasive cleaners or scouring pads, as these may damage the surface. Pay special attention to the heating element, using a soft brush or toothbrush to gently remove any grease or residue.

Step 4: Reassemble and dry

Once all the parts are clean and completely dry, you can reassemble the air fryer according to the manufacturer's instructions. Make sure everything is properly aligned and secure.

Tips for Keeping Your Air Fryer Clean

• Use liners or parchment paper to catch food drippings and prevent them from sticking to the basket.
• Wipe down your air fryer regularly, especially after cooking greasy foods.
• Avoid overcrowding the basket, as this can cause food to touch the heating element or create excess splatter.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Do not use harsh chemicals, abrasive sponges, or metal utensils as these can damage the non-stick coating.
• Do not skip cleaning the heating element, even if it doesn't look dirty. Grease can accumulate and reduce the efficiency of your air fryer over time.
• Ensure all components are fully dry before reassembling to avoid affecting the performance of your air fryer or causing a malfunction.

Frequently asked questions