Storing Air Fryers: Sideways Storage, Safe Or Not?

Air fryers have become a kitchen staple, but where is the best place to store them? Air fryers are generally safe, but it's crucial to be aware of common safety concerns and mistakes to ensure your cooking experience is enjoyable and risk-free. One such mistake is inadequate door clearance. It's not just a matter of convenience; improper door clearance can lead to nasty burns when removing hot food. Another is insufficient airflow, as air fryers need room to vent hot air properly. So, can you store an air fryer on its side?

Air fryer storage safety tips

Air fryers are a fantastic addition to your kitchen, but they can be bulky and take up valuable counter space. If you're looking to store your air fryer safely, here are some tips to help you out:

Choose the Right Spot

Before deciding on a storage location, consider how often you use your air fryer. If you use it daily, choose a spot that is easily accessible, such as a dedicated shelf in a kitchen cabinet or a rolling cart. If you use it less frequently, you can opt for a slightly less accessible option, such as a bottom cabinet, pantry, or basement storage area.

Ensure Proper Ventilation

Air fryers release a lot of heat, so it's important to store them in a well-ventilated area. Avoid placing them in small, enclosed spaces like pantries or cupboards when in use. Make sure there is a gap of at least 5 inches (12 cm) around the air fryer on all sides to allow for proper airflow and prevent overheating.

Use a Heat-Resistant Surface

Air fryers generate a lot of heat, so always place them on a heat-resistant surface, such as marble, granite, or stainless steel countertops. If you have a wooden or laminate countertop, use a heat-resistant mat or silicone pad underneath the air fryer to protect the surface from potential damage.

Keep it Upright

It is recommended to store your air fryer upright rather than on its side to keep it in the best condition. This is true for most small appliances, so make sure to store them upright whenever possible.

Avoid Hazards

Always unplug your air fryer and let it cool down completely before cleaning or storing it. Keep flammable materials, paper towels, and other combustible items away from the air fryer during the cooking process. Ensure that the power cord is safely tucked away to prevent tripping hazards and accidental yanking of the appliance.

Maintain a Clutter-Free Space

Keep your kitchen counters clear and clutter-free by using creative storage solutions. You can conceal your air fryer in a cabinet, appliance garage, or rolling cart. If you prefer to keep it on the countertop, use wooden or stainless-steel covers that blend with your kitchen's design and double as cutting boards or additional prep space.

Heat-resistant mats

Material

When it comes to heat-resistant mats, silicone is a popular choice. Silicone is a highly durable and flexible material that can withstand extreme temperatures. It's also non-slip and waterproof, making it a safe and practical option for your kitchen. Additionally, silicone mats are often dishwasher-safe, making clean-up a breeze.

Size

Thickness

Thickness is another important factor to consider when choosing a heat-resistant mat. A thicker mat will provide better protection for your countertops and help to ensure your appliances don't slip or tip over. However, thicker mats may be bulkier and more challenging to store.

Design

Multi-purpose

Many heat-resistant mats are designed with multiple purposes in mind. For instance, some mats can also be used as a trivet for hot pots and pans, a drying mat for dishes, or a protective surface for crafting projects. Others come with a sliding function, making it easy to move your appliances around the countertop.

• Amazon: The Ancable Store Heat Resistant Mat is a great option, measuring 15 x 18 inches and compatible with popular air fryer brands like Ninja, Cosori, Tower, and Salter. It's made of silicone and has a non-slip and waterproof design.
• Walmart: The Windfall Silicone Trivet Pot Mat is a heat-resistant table placemat with a non-slip design, perfect for protecting your countertops from hot pots and pans. The TureClos Heat Resistant Silicone Table Mat is another excellent option, measuring 40x30cm and available in a light grey colour.

Air fryer placement during use

Air fryers are a popular kitchen appliance, but their size can make them tricky to store. When placing your air fryer during use, there are several important factors to consider.

Firstly, air fryers emit a lot of heat, so it's crucial to place them on a heat-resistant surface, such as marble, granite, or stainless steel. If your countertops are made of a different material, such as wood, vinyl, or laminate, it's a good idea to invest in a heat-resistant mat or silicone pad to place underneath the air fryer. This will protect your countertop from potential damage caused by the high temperatures.

Secondly, air fryers need adequate ventilation to function properly and avoid overheating. It's recommended to keep your air fryer at least 5 inches away from walls, other appliances, and flammable materials. Placing it near an open window or in a well-ventilated area is ideal.

Thirdly, practicality is key. Ensure that you have enough counter space in front of the air fryer to easily open and close the drawer or door. If your kitchen is on the smaller side, consider a more compact air fryer that won't take up too much room. Alternatively, you can opt for a rolling cart that can be moved in and out of the kitchen as needed.

Lastly, always be mindful of safety. Keep the power cord safely tucked away behind the air fryer to prevent tripping hazards, and avoid placing the air fryer near a sink or dishwasher to reduce the risk of electrical shock.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your air fryer is placed safely and conveniently during use, making the most of this versatile kitchen appliance.

Air fryer storage locations

Air fryers are a great addition to your kitchen, offering convenience and healthier cooking options. However, they can be bulky and tricky to store, especially in smaller kitchens. Here are some storage location ideas to keep your air fryer tucked away safely when not in use:

Kitchen Cabinets or Lower Cabinets

Storing your air fryer in kitchen cabinets or lower cabinets is a popular option. This frees up counter space and keeps your kitchen looking neat and tidy. It also protects the air fryer from dust and accidental damage. Consider using a protective cover or padding to prevent scratches and dents to the cabinet and your air fryer. Pull-out drawers or shelves within the cabinet can also make accessing your air fryer easier and more convenient.

Rolling Cart

If you don't have ample cabinet or counter space, a rolling kitchen cart is a great solution. By placing the air fryer on a cart, you can easily move it around the kitchen and store it wherever it's most convenient. The cart can also provide additional storage for cookbooks and other kitchen items.

Kitchen Island

Repurposing a kitchen island is an excellent option if you want to declutter your counter space. You can dedicate a portion of your kitchen island to store the air fryer, keeping it easily accessible while freeing up valuable counter real estate.

Vertical Storage

If you're short on storage space, consider utilising vertical space. Install hanging shelves or cabinets on walls, or make use of the space above kitchen cabinets. A pegboard is another great option for hanging air fryer accessories, keeping them within reach while saving space.

Kitchen Rack

Displaying your air fryer on a sturdy kitchen rack saves counter space and adds a decorative touch to your kitchen. Look for a rack with proper ventilation and ensure it's placed near an electrical outlet for easy cooking.

Pantry or Appliance Garage

If you prefer a completely hidden storage solution, consider storing your air fryer in a pantry or appliance garage. These enclosed compartments with retractable doors keep your appliances out of sight and help maintain a clutter-free kitchen. Just ensure your pantry has proper ventilation if you plan to use the air fryer there.

Air fryer maintenance

Air fryers are a great addition to your kitchen, but they do require some maintenance to keep them in good condition. Here are some tips for air fryer maintenance:

Storage

When not in use, an air fryer can be stored anywhere in your kitchen, as long as it is unplugged and has cooled down. You can keep it on a countertop or store it in a cabinet, pantry, or another room. If you plan to use it frequently, consider placing it on a dedicated shelf or in a rolling cart for easy access. Avoid placing it near flammable materials or in areas with poor ventilation.

Cleaning

Cleaning your air fryer regularly is crucial to maintaining its performance and preventing odours. Clean the appliance after each use to avoid chared food and grease buildup. Here's a step-by-step guide:

• Cooling: Unplug the air fryer and let it cool down for at least 30 minutes.
• Remove Removable Parts: Take out the basket, tray, and pan.
• Wash Removable Parts: Wash these parts with warm soapy water, using a soft sponge or cloth. For stubborn grease or food residue, soak them in hot soapy water for 10-15 minutes, then scrub gently. Alternatively, you can put them in the dishwasher if they are dishwasher-safe.
• Clean the Interior: Wipe down the inside of the air fryer with a damp microfiber cloth or sponge with a splash of dish soap. Pay attention to the heating element and wipe away any grease or food debris.
• Clean the Exterior: Wipe down the outside of the air fryer with a damp cloth or sponge and dish soap. Make sure to unplug the appliance first.
• Dry and Reassemble: Ensure that all parts are thoroughly dry before reassembling the air fryer.

Safety Precautions

When using and storing your air fryer, keep these safety tips in mind:

• Always place the air fryer on a completely flat and level surface to prevent it from tipping over.
• Maintain a gap of at least 5 inches (12.7 cm) between the air fryer and walls or other appliances during use to avoid blocking the vent.
• Keep the air fryer away from fresh food, as the heat emitted can cause food to spoil faster.
• Use a heat-resistant mat or pad underneath the air fryer to protect your countertop from potential heat damage.
• Avoid placing the air fryer on flammable surfaces such as carpets or tea towels.
• Ensure proper ventilation in the room where the air fryer is used.

By following these maintenance tips, you can keep your air fryer in good working condition and enjoy your favourite fried foods with ease!

Frequently asked questions