Use Degreaser In Your Air Fryer? Know The Facts First

Air fryers are a great kitchen appliance, but they can get greasy. While some recommend using dish soap and water to clean an air fryer, this may not be the best method for removing baked-on grease. A good degreaser is needed to get your air fryer looking like new. There are several options available, including Simple Green All-Purpose Cleaner, Clorox Bleach-Free Dishwashing Liquid, Zep Degreaser, and Citra Solv Cleaning Valencia Orange. It's important to remember not to use anything abrasive when cleaning your air fryer, and to always refer to the manufacturer's instructions.

Degreaser products for air fryers

Air fryers are a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering a healthier way to fry food with minimal grease. However, they still require regular cleaning and maintenance to prevent a build-up of grease and food particles, which can cause problems and reduce the lifespan of the appliance. While dish soap and water can be used, they may not be the most effective method for removing baked-on grease. Here are some degreaser products that can help keep your air fryer clean and well-maintained:

• Simple Green All-Purpose Cleaner: This product is a cleaner, degreaser, and deodorizer that can be used on the air fryer basket, trays, and the interior and exterior of the appliance. It effectively removes grease, grime, and stains without leaving behind any chemicals that could be absorbed by your food.
• Clorox Bleach-Free Dishwashing Liquid: Available at Dollar General, this product can be used with a sponge to scrub away baked-on grease from your air fryer. It is also reported to be gentle on the hands.
• Dawn Powerwash Spray: This spray is recommended by several users and is said to cut through baked-on grease effectively. It can be used in combination with hot water and a non-abrasive sponge or toothbrush for best results.
• Baking Soda and Water Paste: Create a paste with baking soda and water, or baking soda and lemon juice, and apply it to the air fryer basket. Use a soft toothbrush or sponge to scrub away grease and grime. This method may require a bit more elbow grease but can be effective.
• Vinegar and Lemon Juice Steam: Fill a ceramic ramekin with white vinegar and lemon juice, and place it in the air fryer at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for five minutes. Let the steam work its magic for about half an hour, loosening the grease and leaving a fresh lemon scent.
• Oven and Grill Cleaner: This heavy-duty degreaser spray is perfect for air fryers, stoves, and baked-on grease. It can be found on Amazon and is a great option for removing tough grease and food buildup.
• Easy-Off Heavy Duty Degreaser Cleaner Spray: Also available on Amazon, this kitchen degreaser is suitable for air fryers and can help remove grease and grime.
• Air Fryer Paper Liners: Using disposable paper liners in your air fryer can make clean-up a breeze. These liners are oil-proof and non-stick, making it easy to dispose of any grease or food residue after cooking.

Cleaning air fryer baskets

Air fryer baskets can be a pain to clean, but it's important to do so regularly to prevent a buildup of grease and grime. Here are some detailed, direct, and instructive tips to help you clean your air fryer basket effectively.

Use the Right Tools

Avoid using metal utensils, steel wool, or abrasive sponges as these can damage the non-stick coating of your air fryer basket. Instead, opt for non-abrasive sponges, soft toothbrushes, or soft-bristled brushes. These tools will help you remove stuck-on food and grease without damaging the surface.

Soak and Scrub

Fill your air fryer basket with hot water and add a degreasing agent such as dish soap or a specialised degreaser. Let the basket soak for a few minutes to loosen the grease and grime. Then, use your non-abrasive sponge or brush to gently scrub away any remaining residue. Rinse the basket thoroughly with clean water after scrubbing.

Deep Cleaning

For a deeper clean, create a cleaning solution by mixing a specialised degreaser or dish soap with hot water. Remove the air fryer basket and any other removable parts and soak them in the solution for about 10 minutes. Use a soft brush or sponge to scrub away any stubborn grease. Rinse the parts with clean water and ensure they are completely dry before reassembling the air fryer.

Natural Cleaning Solutions

If you prefer natural cleaning solutions, you can create a paste by mixing baking soda and water. Apply this paste to the air fryer basket and let it sit for about 30 minutes. Then, use a toothbrush or soft sponge to scrub away the grease and grime. Rinse the basket thoroughly with clean water after scrubbing.

Alternatively, you can use a combination of vinegar and lemon juice to clean your air fryer basket. Fill a ceramic ramekin with vinegar and lemon juice, place it in the air fryer, and set it to a low temperature for a few minutes. The steam created will help loosen the grease and grime, making it easier to wipe away.

Clean Regularly

The best way to prevent a buildup of grease and grime is to clean your air fryer basket regularly. Aim to clean the basket after each use, removing any large food particles and wiping down the surfaces. This will help prevent stuck-on grease and reduce the need for deep cleaning.

Cleaning air fryers with vinegar

Vinegar is an effective way to clean an air fryer, especially when it comes to baked-on grease. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to clean an air fryer with vinegar:

• Prepare the air fryer: Ensure the air fryer is unplugged and has completely cooled down before cleaning.
• Make 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 it smell nicer.
• Spray the solution: Spray the solution onto the areas that need cleaning, including the basket, grate, and interior. Allow it to sit for a few minutes to loosen the grease.
• Wipe down: Use a very gentle abrasive pad, sponge, or soft cloth to wipe away the grease and spray. Be sure to dry the air fryer thoroughly afterward.
• Soak if needed: If there is still baked-on grease, soak the basket in the vinegar solution for about an hour. Do not leave it to soak overnight, as the grease will solidify again and become more difficult to remove.
• Clean the heating element: Turn the air fryer upside down to easily access the heating element. Spray the solution onto a soft cloth and gently wipe the heating element. Dry it with a clean, dry cloth.
• Rinse and dry: After cleaning, give the air fryer a final rinse with clean water, and possibly some dish soap, to remove any vinegar residue. Vinegar is food-safe, but it can alter the taste of your food.

Some words of caution: Vinegar is an acid that can, over time, eat away at rubber parts if used undiluted. Also, cleaning your air fryer in a way that is not recommended by the manufacturer may nullify any guarantee. However, diluted vinegar is generally safe to use and will not harm your air fryer, especially if you are using it to tackle tough grease buildup.

Cleaning air fryers with baking soda

Cleaning an Air Fryer with Baking Soda

Air fryers are fantastic kitchen appliances that can quickly cook delicious meals with minimal grease. However, proper maintenance and cleaning are essential to keep your air fryer in good working condition. While some people may opt for degreasers, a simple and effective method is to use baking soda. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to clean your air fryer with baking soda:

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Soda Paste

In a small bowl, mix three parts baking soda with one part water. The exact quantities will depend on the size of your air fryer, but a good starting point is two tablespoons of baking soda and one teaspoon of hot water. Mix them together until you form a paste. You can also add some lemon juice to this mixture for extra cleaning power and a fresh scent.

Step 2: Apply the Paste

Once you have your baking soda paste, it's time to apply it to your air fryer. Remove the basket and drawer from the air fryer and set them aside. Then, spread the paste evenly across all the interior surfaces of the air fryer, including the walls, heating element, and any other areas with built-up grease. Be careful to avoid the coils and any electrical components.

Step 3: Let it Sit

After applying the paste, let it sit in the air fryer for about 30 minutes. During this time, the baking soda will work its magic, breaking down the grease and grime. If you have particularly stubborn grease stains, you may need to let it sit for a bit longer.

Step 4: Scrub and Rinse

Once the paste has had enough time to work, it's time to scrub away the grease. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or a non-abrasive sponge dampened with water to gently scrub the surfaces of the air fryer. Pay extra attention to areas with stubborn grease buildup. After scrubbing, rinse the air fryer with clean water to remove any residue.

Step 5: Dry and Reassemble

After rinsing, make sure to dry all the components of the air fryer thoroughly before reassembling them. Use a soft cloth or paper towels to absorb any remaining moisture. Once everything is completely dry, put the basket and drawer back into the air fryer, and your appliance will be clean and ready for your next cooking adventure!

Remember, always refer to your air fryer's manual for specific cleaning instructions and precautions. Additionally, it's important to clean your air fryer regularly to prevent grease buildup and ensure optimal performance. With this baking soda method, you can keep your air fryer sparkling clean and extend its lifespan.

Air fryer maintenance

Air fryers are fantastic kitchen appliances that allow you to enjoy fried food with less fat and fewer calories. However, to keep your air fryer in good condition, it's important to clean and maintain it regularly. Here are some detailed instructions and tips for air fryer maintenance:

How Often to Clean:

Ideally, you should clean your air fryer after each use to prevent charred food and gunk buildup. The parts that must be washed after each use include the basket, tray, and pan. These can be washed by hand with warm soapy water or placed in the dishwasher if they are dishwasher-safe. Wiping down the interior after each use is also recommended.

The exterior of your air fryer does not need to be cleaned as frequently and can be wiped down after every few uses.

The heating coil only needs to be checked every couple of months for oil residue. If it looks dirty, unplug the appliance, clean it with a damp cloth, and ensure it's thoroughly dry before using the air fryer again.

Step-by-Step Cleaning Process:

• Cool Down: Always unplug your air fryer and let it cool down for at least 30 minutes before cleaning. This is an important safety precaution.
• Remove Removable Parts: Take out the basket, tray, and pan from the air fryer.
• Wash Removable Parts: Wash these parts in warm soapy water. If there is baked-on grease or charred food, let them soak in hot soapy water for 10-15 minutes, then scrub with a non-abrasive sponge. Alternatively, if they are dishwasher-safe, you can put them in the dishwasher.
• Make a Cleaning Paste (Optional): For stubborn food residue, create a paste with baking soda and water. Scrub this paste onto the residue with a soft-bristle brush, then wipe it clean.
• Clean the Interior: Use a damp microfiber cloth or non-abrasive sponge with a splash of dish soap to wipe down the interior of the air fryer. Follow up by wiping away any soap residue with a clean, damp cloth.
• Check the Heating Element: Turn the air fryer upside down and use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down the heating element, being careful to avoid the coils.
• Clean the Exterior: Wipe down the exterior with a cloth or sponge and a mild detergent. Ensure the air fryer is unplugged first. Remove any soap residue with a clean damp cloth, then polish the outside with a paper towel.
• Reassemble: Before reassembling, ensure that all parts are completely dry. Then, put all the removable parts back into the main unit.

Do's and Don'ts:

• Do not use metal utensils, steel wool, or abrasive sponges/scrubbers as these can damage the non-stick coating.
• Avoid using disinfectant or sanitizing solutions unless they are specifically approved for food-contact surfaces.
• Do not submerge the main unit in water to avoid the risk of electric shock or short-circuiting.
• Do not leave the removable parts to soak overnight, as this can make baked-on grease harder to remove.
• Do not mix vinegar and baking soda, as this will cause a chemical reaction that can damage the metal coating.

Recommended Products:

Some recommended products for cleaning your air fryer include:

• Dawn Powerwash Spray
• Simple Green All-Purpose Cleaner (a cleaner, degreaser, and deodorizer)
• Clorox Bleach-Free Dishwashing Liquid

Frequently asked questions