Air fryer enthusiasts are being cautioned about the potential cleaning errors they might be making with this increasingly popular kitchen gadget. As energy bills soar, more people are turning to air fryers for their energy efficiency and ability to cook healthy meals quickly without oil.
However, experts advise that a 'deep clean' is essential at least once a month, with lighter cleans after each use. Despite some parts being marketed as dishwasher safe, Dr Richard Anderson from High Speed Training warns against using the dishwasher: "It's recommended that you give your air fryer a light clean after every use and a deeper clean every month, or every few uses if you regularly cook greasy foods."
He adds, "For a monthly deep clean, you'll need to clean all the accessories and inside the appliance more thoroughly to remove burnt-on food, grease and odours."
Dr Anderson also notes, "Even though some air fryers are labelled as dishwasher-safe, dishwashers can strip the non-stick coating on the air fryer components. For stubborn, baked-on grease, try filling the tray or drawer with water, drop in a dishwasher tablet and leave to soak overnight. Then, simply rinse clean the next day."
As the heating element is integrated into the air fryer and cannot be removed, it should not be immersed in water to avoid damaging the appliance. To clean it, use a fresh, damp cloth or sponge to wipe off any grease or dirt from the heating element, reports the Express.
Rinse the cloth in warm soapy water and repeat the process until the heating coil is completely clean. For stubborn grime, a soft-bristled toothbrush and warm, soapy water can be used to gently scrub the heating element, but be careful not to get it too wet to prevent damage.
Ensure the heating element is thoroughly dry before turning the air fryer back on. Some air fryers come with built-in filters that also require cleaning and maintenance.
Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for specific advice for your model.
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English (United States) ·