Steam Cleaning Your Air Fryer: Is It Possible?

Air fryers are a convenient way to cook food quickly, but they can be a hassle to clean. While some people recommend deep cleaning the appliance by soaking it in warm, soapy water or using a dishwasher, others suggest a quicker method: filling the chamber halfway with soap and water, then air frying at 350°F for five minutes. This TikTok trend has gained popularity for its ability to leave drawers and baskets sparkling clean. However, it's important to exercise caution when cleaning an air fryer as submerging the unit or using harsh cleaning products can damage the electronics and non-stick coating.

Can you steam clean an air fryer?

Soak the basket in hot, soapy water

Soaking the basket in hot, soapy water is a great way to deep clean your air fryer. It's important to let the appliance cool down and unplug it before you begin. You should also remove the basket and any other removable parts, such as the grease catcher or drip tray, and fill the chamber with hot water and soap. Let these parts soak for several minutes to help loosen any stubborn, stuck-on food. This method is much safer and more effective than the viral TikTok hack of air frying soapy water, which could damage your appliance.

After soaking, use a soft sponge or non-abrasive scrub brush to scrub away any remaining residue. For tough, baked-on grease, you can also create a paste with baking soda and water and apply this to the affected areas. Let the paste sit for about 10 minutes, then scrub gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush or sponge. Rinse all the components well with water and allow them to air dry completely before reassembling your air fryer.

In addition to deep cleaning the basket, you should also regularly wipe down the interior and exterior of the air fryer, as well as the heating element, with a damp cloth. It's important to consult your air fryer's manual for specific cleaning instructions, as some parts may not be dishwasher-safe or submersible in water. By following these steps and maintaining a regular cleaning routine, you can keep your air fryer in tip-top shape and prevent lingering smells.

Use a non-abrasive scrub brush

To clean your air fryer, you'll need to remove the basket and tray from the appliance. If your air fryer basket is dishwasher-safe, you can place it in the dishwasher. If not, you can wash it with hot water, soap, and a non-abrasive scrub brush.

• Ensure that your air fryer is unplugged and completely cooled before cleaning. This is important for safety and to prevent any damage to the appliance.
• Fill a sink or a basin with hot water and add a suitable cleaning solution or dish soap. You can also use a mixture of baking soda and water to help scrub away any grime.
• Dip the non-abrasive scrub brush into the soapy water and gently scrub the basket and tray. Pay extra attention to any greasy spots or stubborn food particles. You can also use the scrub brush to clean the interior and exterior surfaces of the air fryer, including the heating element and air vents.
• For tough stains or buildup, you may need to use a mild cleaning solution and continue scrubbing until the surface is clean.
• Rinse the scrub brush and air fryer basket and tray thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue.
• Allow all parts to air dry completely before reassembling the air fryer.

It is important to note that you should avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive pads when cleaning your air fryer, as these can damage the non-stick coating and surfaces of the appliance. Always refer to your air fryer's manual for specific cleaning instructions and recommendations.

Clean the crumb tray

To clean the crumb tray of your air fryer, you should first let the appliance cool down completely. Then, remove the crumb tray and wash it in warm, soapy water using a soft sponge or cloth. Rinse the tray thoroughly with clean water and dry it with a soft cloth. If your crumb tray has baked-on grease, you can soak it in hot, soapy water and use a non-abrasive liquid cleaner and sponge to scrub away any remaining grime. Alternatively, you can use a paste made from baking soda and water, wiping it away with a soft sponge.

If your crumb tray is scorched and difficult to clean, you could try a product called The Pink Stuff, which is available on Amazon. You could also try covering the crumb tray with foil and changing it regularly. If your crumb tray is too dirty, you may want to replace it. For example, Breville offers replacement crumb trays for around $13.

Always make sure to consult the manual for your particular model, as different air fryers may have different cleaning requirements.

Deep clean the air fryer

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

Allow the air fryer to cool down: Before you start cleaning, ensure that the air fryer has cooled down completely. This reduces the risk of burns and makes it safer to handle.

Unplug the air fryer: Always unplug the appliance from the power outlet before you begin the cleaning process. This prevents any electrical accidents while handling water or cleaning solutions.

Remove removable parts: Most air fryers have removable parts such as the basket, tray, and pan. Take out these parts carefully and set them aside for cleaning separately.

Clean removable parts: Wash the removable parts with hot water and mild dish soap. Use a non-abrasive sponge or cloth to remove any food residue or grease. If your air fryer basket is dishwasher-safe, you can place it in the dishwasher. Alternatively, fill the basket with hot water and add some liquid soap and a lemon. Run the air fryer for 10-15 minutes, checking in periodically. Repeat this process 3-4 times, replacing the water with clean water and adding more soap if the water becomes brown.

Clean the interior and exterior: Use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down the interior of the air fryer. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scouring pads, which may damage the surface. Wipe down the exterior as well.

Clean the heating element: The heating element is located at the top of the air fryer and should be checked periodically. If needed, carefully give it a wipe with a damp (not wet) cloth and let it dry completely. Alternatively, 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. Make sure the heating element is completely dry before reassembling the air fryer.

Reassemble the air fryer: Once all the parts are clean and dry, reassemble the air fryer according to the manufacturer's instructions. Ensure that everything is properly aligned and securely in place.

Store properly: Store your air fryer in a clean, dry place when not in use to prevent dust or buildup of grime.

It is recommended to deep clean your air fryer about once a month, or more often if you use it frequently or cook greasy foods. Regular cleaning after each use will also help to prevent any lingering smells.

Wipe down the heating element

To wipe down the heating element of your air fryer, you must first unplug the appliance and let it cool down completely. This is a crucial safety step to prevent any accidental burns. Once the air fryer is cool, remove all detachable parts, such as baskets, trays, and plates. You may also need to remove a splatter shield to access the heating element, so consult your user manual before proceeding.

If possible, turn the air fryer upside down to better access the heating element. However, if this is not comfortable or safe for your appliance, work with what is feasible. Using a damp cloth or sponge with warm water, gently wipe the heating coil, being sparing with the water to avoid any electrical hazards. For tougher residue, you can use a soft-bristled brush, such as a toothbrush, and add a few drops of liquid dish soap or make a baking soda paste for extra cleaning power.

After wiping down the heating element, rinse away any soap residue with a clean, damp cloth. Allow the air fryer to air dry completely before reassembling and using it again.

Frequently asked questions