How To Clean Your Air Fryer The Right Way

Air fryers are a great way to enjoy fried food with less fat and fewer calories. But, like any kitchen appliance, they need to be cleaned regularly to maintain their performance and avoid a greasy buildup. The good news is that cleaning an air fryer is much easier than cleaning a deep fryer. All you need is some warm soapy water and a dishcloth to remove food buildup. The most time-consuming part is allowing the basket to soak if there is an excess of sticky residue. Here are some tips on how to clean your air fryer.

How to clean the removable parts of an air fryer

To clean the removable parts of an air fryer, follow these steps:

• Unplug the air fryer: Always unplug the appliance and let it cool down before cleaning. This is important for safety reasons, as it prevents any electrical accidents while handling water or cleaning solutions.
• Remove the removable parts: Carefully take out the basket, tray, and pan. These are the removable parts that you will clean separately.
• Wash the removable parts: Wash these parts with warm to hot water and mild dish soap. You can use a soft sponge, cloth, or a soft-bristled toothbrush to remove any food residue or grease. If you prefer, you can also use a non-abrasive scrub brush or sponge to help with stuck-on food. Rinse the parts with clean water and dry them thoroughly with a soft cloth or air dry them.
• Deep clean as needed: If your air fryer has a lot of built-up grease, burnt food particles, or odours, you may need to deep clean it. Soak the removable parts in hot, soapy water for about 20-30 minutes to loosen the gunk. Then, scrub them gently with a soft-bristled brush or toothbrush. You can also use a toothpick to gently clean tough-to-reach areas, such as the holes in the grate. Alternatively, some people recommend filling the air fryer basket with warm water, adding a squeeze of lemon or a bit of dish soap, and running it for about 10-15 minutes to help loosen and remove grease and debris.
• Check the manufacturer's instructions: Different brands and models of air fryers may have specific recommendations for cleaning. Always refer to the instruction manual for your particular air fryer to ensure you are using the best cleaning methods for your appliance.

How to clean the main unit of an air fryer

To clean the main unit of an air fryer, follow these steps:

Step 1: Unplug the air fryer

Turn off and unplug your air fryer. This is important for safety reasons and to avoid any electrical accidents while cleaning.

Step 2: Allow the air fryer to cool down

Let the air fryer cool down completely before you start cleaning it. This is important for safety reasons and to prevent burns.

Step 3: Clean removable parts

Remove all removable parts, such as the basket, tray, and pan. Wash these parts with warm or hot soapy water in the sink. You can also place them in the dishwasher if they are dishwasher-safe, but check your air fryer's manual first.

Step 4: Wipe down the main unit

Use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down the entire main unit, including the control panel and interior. Avoid getting any electrical components wet. If there is food stuck on the heating coil, use a soft dish brush to remove it gently.

Step 5: Dry and reassemble

Make sure to dry all parts completely before reassembling the air fryer. You can use a towel or air dry them.

Additional Tips:

• It is recommended to clean your air fryer regularly after each use to prevent greasy buildup.
• Avoid using harsh chemicals, abrasive sponges, or metal utensils as they can damage the non-stick coating.
• For tough residue, create a paste with baking soda and water, apply it to the affected area, and let it sit for a few minutes before gently scrubbing it off.

How to clean the heating coil of an air fryer

Yes, you can wash an air fryer, but it is important to be careful as it is an electrical item. Here's how to clean the heating coil of an air fryer in six simple steps:

• Turn off the power: Always unplug your air fryer and let it cool down before cleaning. Safety should be the top priority.
• Remove the basket, tray, and pan: These parts are usually dishwasher-safe, but you can also wash them by hand with warm soapy water.
• Wipe down the main unit: Use a damp cloth to wipe away any grease or food residue from the exterior of the air fryer, being careful not to get the electrical parts wet.
• Clean the heating coil: The heating coil is fragile and should be handled with care. Use a soft brush or sponge to gently rub away any grease or food buildup. You can also try using a damp cloth or paper towel. If there is baked-on grease, you may need to soak the coil in warm soapy water for a while first.
• Inspect the air fryer: Check for any breakages, cracks, or discolouration that could indicate an issue with the electrical components. If you notice anything unusual, consult an appliance expert.
• Dry and reassemble: Before putting your air fryer away, make sure all parts are completely dry.

How to clean the exterior of an air fryer

To clean the exterior of your air fryer, follow these steps:

• Unplug the air fryer and let it cool down. It is important to never immerse the main unit in water, as it contains electrical components.
• Use a damp cloth to wipe down the exterior of the air fryer. Ensure that you wipe down the entire unit, including the control panel, to remove any food splatters or grease residue.
• Dry the exterior of the air fryer thoroughly before reassembling any removable parts.
• If there is stubborn grease or grime on the exterior, create a paste with baking soda and water. Apply this paste to the affected areas and let it sit for a few minutes before wiping it off with a damp cloth.
• For a deeper clean, you can use a mild dish soap and water solution with a soft sponge or cloth to wipe down the exterior. Avoid using abrasive sponges or sharp utensils, as they can scratch the non-stick coating.
• Make sure to wipe down the exterior regularly, especially after cooking greasy or messy foods, to prevent the buildup of grease and grime.

How often should you clean an air fryer

Air fryers are fantastic kitchen gadgets that allow you to enjoy fried foods with less fat and fewer calories. But, like any kitchen appliance, they need to be cleaned regularly to maintain hygiene and ensure the appliance works efficiently.

How Often to Clean

Ideally, you should clean your air fryer after every use to prevent charred food and gunk buildup. This includes the basket, tray, and pan, which can be washed by hand or in the dishwasher, depending on the model. It is also a good idea to wipe down the interior after each use.

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

The heating coil or element should be checked every couple of months for oil residue and wiped down with a damp cloth if necessary.

Tips for Cleaning

• Always unplug the air fryer and let it cool down before cleaning.
• Avoid submerging the main unit in water, as this can damage the electrical components.
• Use a non-abrasive sponge or soft-bristle scrub brush to clean the removable parts and interior.
• For stubborn grease or food residue, create a paste with baking soda and water and scrub with a soft-bristle brush.
• Avoid using utensils or abrasive sponges/scrubbers, as these can scratch the non-stick coating.
• Do not use disinfectant unless it is approved for food-contact surfaces.

Benefits of Regular Cleaning

Regular cleaning of your air fryer will not only maintain hygiene and prevent foodborne illnesses but also ensure your appliance works efficiently. A dirty air fryer will heat up slower, consume more energy, and be more challenging to clean.

So, while it may be tempting to skip the cleaning step, it is essential to maintain your air fryer and ensure it works optimally for crispy, healthy fried foods!

Frequently asked questions