Air Fryer Cleaning: Water And Soap?

A viral TikTok hack suggests that you can clean your air fryer by filling it with water and soap and turning it on for a few minutes. While this method may work for some people, it is not recommended by experts, as it could cause leaks or damage your machine. The amount of steam created by heating soapy water can also be an issue, and trying to heat the water enough to clean the fryer could put too much pressure on the appliance. Instead, it is better to clean your air fryer by hand with a sponge and soapy water or by putting its removable parts in the dishwasher.

Air fryer cleaning hack: fill the basket with soapy water and air fry

Air fryers are all the rage these days, but with great frying power comes great cleaning responsibility. Luckily, there are some handy hacks to make cleaning your air fryer a breeze. One such hack that has gone viral on TikTok suggests filling the fryer basket with water and detergent and letting the appliance do the work for you. But does it actually work?

The TikTok Hack

The hack, popularised by British TikTok influencer Tanya Home Inspo, involves filling the air fryer basket halfway with water and dish soap and then air-frying it for around three to five minutes. The idea is that the hot air will loosen up all the grease and grime, and you can then simply rinse the basket and voilà – a clean air fryer with minimal effort!

Well, it seems like there are mixed results. Some people who have tried this hack claim it worked like a charm, leaving their air fryer sparkling clean. However, others have been less than impressed, reporting that the stains and burnt-on sugars remained even after trying the hack.

A Word of Caution

Before you try this hack, it's important to exercise some caution. Firstly, always unplug your air fryer and let it cool down completely before attempting any cleaning. Secondly, while some people have had success with this method, others have warned that it could potentially damage your appliance, especially if your air fryer manual specifically warns against putting water in it. So, be sure to read your manual carefully before giving this hack a go.

Alternative Cleaning Methods

If you're hesitant to try the soapy water hack, there are plenty of other ways to clean your air fryer. A traditional method is to remove the basket and tray and wash them with warm or hot, soapy water in the sink, using a non-abrasive sponge or cloth. You can also soak the basket in soapy water for around 30 minutes to help loosen any stubborn residue before scrubbing.

Additionally, you can use baking soda, vinegar, or a mild dish soap like Dawn to help break down grease without damaging the non-stick surface. For really tough residue, 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.

So, while the TikTok hack of filling your air fryer basket with soapy water and air-frying it may work for some, it's not a guaranteed solution. It's always a good idea to refer to your appliance's manual for recommended cleaning methods and to exercise caution when trying new cleaning hacks.

The hack's effectiveness and safety

The effectiveness of the TikTok air fryer cleaning hack has been called into question by several people who have tried it. While some people claim that it worked for them, others say that it didn't make much difference and that they had to resort to other cleaning methods to get rid of stubborn grime. One person even reported that the hack left a soap taste in their food, even after multiple uses.

The hack involves filling the air fryer basket halfway with water and adding a generous amount of dish soap. The drawer is then reinserted into the appliance, and the temperature is set to 350°F or 370°F for three to five minutes. Several people have pointed out that this amount of liquid could cause leaks or splashes that could damage the machine. Additionally, the amount of steam created by heating soapy water could also be an issue. Most air fryers are not designed to heat water enough to cause it to boil, so attempting to do so could put too much pressure on the appliance and potentially damage it.

Therefore, while the hack may work for some people, it is not without risks. It is important to exercise caution and refer to the manufacturer's guidelines when cleaning an air fryer. The best way to clean an air fryer safely is to remove the basket and wash it in hot, soapy water in the sink or dishwasher. For tough residue, a paste of baking soda and water can be applied and scrubbed with a soft-bristled toothbrush. The heating element should be wiped down with a damp cloth or paper towel, ensuring that the appliance is unplugged and the element is completely cool before cleaning.

Overall, while the TikTok hack may be tempting for its convenience, it is not worth risking damage to your air fryer. The traditional cleaning methods are safer and more effective, ensuring that your appliance is thoroughly cleaned without causing any harm.

Why you shouldn't use water to clean your air fryer

There are several reasons why you shouldn't use water to clean your air fryer, and it's important to understand the potential risks involved. Firstly, air fryers are not designed to accommodate large amounts of liquid. The whole purpose of air fryers is to cook food with minimal oil, so adding significant amounts of water goes against the appliance's intended use.

If you fill your air fryer basket with water and soap and turn it on, you risk causing leaks or splashes that can damage the machine. The amount of steam generated from heating soapy water can also be an issue, as it may lead to moisture buildup in the appliance. This can be especially problematic if water reaches the internal electrical components, potentially causing damage or short-circuiting.

Additionally, most single-purpose air fryers are not designed to heat a large volume of water to boiling. Attempting to do so could put excessive pressure on the appliance, potentially burning it out or causing other types of damage.

A safer alternative to this cleaning method is to follow the manufacturer's guidelines for cleaning your air fryer. Typically, this involves removing the basket and washing it in warm or hot, soapy water in the sink. Many air fryer baskets are also dishwasher-safe, but it's always best to check the manual to be sure. For the exterior of the air fryer, simply wipe it down with a damp cloth after each use to keep it clean and maintain its performance.

In summary, while it may be tempting to try viral cleaning hacks, it's best to avoid using water to clean your air fryer directly. Not only is it ineffective, but it can also lead to damage and safety hazards. By following the recommended cleaning methods, you'll ensure your air fryer remains in good working condition and continues to produce tasty meals for years to come.

The best way to clean your air fryer safely

Regular cleaning of your air fryer is important to maintain its performance and ensure food safety. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to clean and maintain your air fryer safely:

Quick Clean: Steps After Each Use

• Unplug and Cool: Always unplug the air fryer and let it cool down before cleaning.
• Wash Removable Parts: Remove the basket and tray and wash them with warm, soapy water in the sink. You can also use a dishwasher, but this may cause the non-stick coating to wear off more quickly.
• Wipe Down: Use a damp cloth to wipe down the interior and exterior of the air fryer to remove any residue or grease.
• Dry: Ensure that all components are completely dry before reassembling the air fryer.

Deep Clean: Steps for Thorough Cleaning

• Allow to Cool: Before deep cleaning, ensure that the air fryer has cooled down completely to reduce the risk of burns and make it safer to handle.
• Unplug: Unplug the air fryer from the power source before cleaning to prevent any electrical accidents.
• Remove Removable Parts: Carefully take out the removable parts such as the basket, tray, and pan, and set them aside for separate cleaning.
• Clean Removable Parts: Wash these parts with hot water and mild dish soap using a non-abrasive sponge or cloth. Alternatively, you can place them in the dishwasher for a deeper clean if they are dishwasher-safe.
• Clean the Interior and Exterior: Use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down the inside and outside of the air fryer, avoiding abrasive cleaners or scouring pads, which may damage the surface.
• Clean the Heating Element: Use a soft brush or toothbrush to gently clean the heating element if it has accumulated grease or residue. Be careful not to damage the heating coil or dislodge any components, and ensure it is completely dry before reassembling.
• Reassemble and Store Properly: Once all parts are clean and dry, reassemble the air fryer according to the manufacturer's instructions and store it in a clean, dry place.

Tips for Keeping Your Air Fryer Cleaner for Longer

• Use liners or parchment paper to catch food drippings and prevent mess.
• Wipe down the air fryer regularly, especially after cooking greasy foods.
• Avoid overcrowding the basket to prevent food from touching the heating element or creating excess splatter.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

How to clean the air fryer's heating element

To clean an air fryer's heating element, it is important to first unplug the appliance and ensure it is not hot. Then, remove the basket and the pan. Place the appliance upside down on a soft cloth to avoid scratches and protect the heating element.

The next step is to use a soft sponge or brush with hot water to clean the heating element. It is important to avoid using a steel wire brush or a hard-bristled brush, as this could damage the coating of the heating element. If there is a lot of built-up grease, a toothbrush with a bit of dish soap can help. Be sure to be gentle and not damage the heating coil or dislodge any components.

Once the heating element is clean, ensure it is completely dry before reassembling the air fryer. After reassembling, turn on the appliance and let it run for a few minutes without any food inside. This will ensure that any remaining loose residue is caught in the pan.

Frequently asked questions