The air fryer is one of the things Ree Drummond loves most. The super-handy kitchen tool has become her obsession. With air fryers, cooked food that was once regarded as a fat-filled no-no (like French fries) can be made far healthier by using rapidly circulated hot air rather than hot oil. It’s also easy to clean up! However, air fryers do require regular cleaning, just like any kitchen appliance. If you are wondering how to clean an air fryer, read on.
In this article, we’ve gone straight to the experts: chefs who are regular users of their air fryers. You’ll find our top tips below on how to keep your own air fryer as clean as the day you bought it.
An Overview of Air Fryers
There are several types of air fryers, including electric and gas models. Their height ranges from 12 to 18 inches and their width ranges from 12 to 14 inches. Heating elements and powerful fans circulate heat inside the unit. Hot air circulates from all sides through a suspended basket with holes that allow the food to cook from every angle. It’s great for quick and even cooking – crispy fries are a dream come true – but many places can collect food particles, and the bottom pan can be hard to clean.
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How to Clean Your Air Fryer
Air fryer models and brands differ slightly in terms of how they are configured, but the basic cleaning protocol is the same for all. Water cannot be used to submerge the main unit which contains the electrical component.
- After using the machine, unplug it, and let it cool for a few minutes. Waiting until later will only result in the gunk getting stuck.
- Remove the inner basket and pan, wipe them clean, and then wash them with warm, soapy water.
- Submerging and soaking the basket and pan in soapy water is possible. Dishwasher-safe baskets and pans can be found with some brands.
- It can be a little harder to clean the bottom chamber of the machine, but it is very important to do so.
- A chamber’s bottom will become cluttered with crumbs, oil residue, and meat drippings after eating. With a damp paper towel or clean dish towel, wipe out the interior of the machine once the basket and pan have been removed.
- When the machine has cooled completely, you can wipe down the heating element. Depending on how you want to access the machine, you may have to tip it or invert it.
- Make sure all corners and crevices of your air fryer are thoroughly dry. Once the removable parts have been inserted into the main unit, voila! The air fryer is now ready for use.
FAQs
Is it possible to clean an air fryer of sticky residue?
A thick paste can be made by mixing a half-cup of baking soda with a bit of water for tough messes inside your fryer. After applying the paste, let it sit for a couple of minutes before using a soft-bristled toothbrush to scrub it off. The inside of the fryer should be wiped down with a wet cloth, followed by a dry cloth.
Is it possible to degrease an air fryer?
For an especially greasy air fryer, add a little dish detergent to the water and follow Fountaine’s trick. Make sure you use grease fighters like Dawn Ultra. If you want the air fryer to be easier to clean after cooking, you can use liners made of aluminum foil or parchment paper. It’s important to make sure that the accessories are compatible with your air fryer toaster oven by checking the owner’s manual.
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Can an air fryer be deep cleaned?
You clean after cooking in much the same way, with a couple of additions. You can use an air fryer almost like a nonstick pan if your food has been caked on, since they have a nonstick drawer. The heat and water in your air fryer will help lift off grease and debris easily, so add a cup of water to the basket, turn the temperature to high, and leave it for a few minutes. Opening the drawer will reveal that the debris and gunk have been effortlessly removed without any scrubbing.
For around 30 minutes, soak them in hot, soapy water and then gently scrub them with a soft-bristled toothbrush. If grate holes are hard to clean, you can use a toothpick (gently) to reach them. Air fryers should never be submerged in water.
Are parts safe to put in the dishwasher?
The removal components of many air fryers can be put in the dishwasher. Consult the instructions provided by the manufacturer to ensure that your model is dishwasher safe.