Air fryers are some of the most convenient appliances we have at home. I have first-hand experience with the efficiency of this device.
However, despite its advantages, I know how difficult it is to clean a dirty air fryer, especially after it accumulates baked-on grease.
I tried several basic and advanced methods to address that. Today, I'll teach you how to clean air fryer basket and the main unit itself.
How to Clean Your Air Fryer
Before proceeding to the basket, let's begin with the basic steps to clean an air fryer.
Step 1: Unplug
The first thing you want to do is to unplug the air fryer. Since we'll be reaching the inner parts of the unit, you don't want electricity running on the device.
If you've just finished cooking, let the unit cool down for several minutes before proceeding with the next steps.
Step 2: Detach and Clean
Once the unit has cooled down, the next step is to detach the removable parts. This includes the basket and crisper tray.
You can clean these just like you would on regular kitchen utensils. Use warm soapy water and a soft sponge to scrub the surfaces clean.
If food particles are on the detachable parts, you can use a soft bristle brush or sponge for removing stuck-on food.
Avoid using metal or hard bristles, as these can strip the nonstick coating on the basket.
If the air fryer doesn't have grease residue, just place the basket and tray in the dishwasher, but be sure to check the manual first whether or not your air fryer is dishwasher-safe.
You can also try using aluminum pans in your air fryer the next time you cook to avoid food residues on the basket.
If none of these works, use the methods below to deep clean your air fryer basket.
Step 3: Main Unit
The next step is to clean the main unit. You can't place this part under running water as it will damage its electronics.
To clean this, grab a cloth and fill a small container with warm water. Dip a small part of the cloth into the water and use the damp cloth to wipe the surface of the main unit.
Take this chance to remove food splatters and residue from inside the chamber as well.
Step 4: Heating Element
Be sure to clean the heating element as well. You can find this at the upper portion of the chamber.
This part produces heat, and the fan behind it circulates hot air in the chamber to cook your food.
Food residues on the heating element may alter the flavor of your next cook and even diminish the heating power of the coil.
Use a damp cloth to wipe the coil. Try to reach the crevices as well while you're at it.
If this doesn't remove the food residues, use hot water to dampen your cloth instead. This will help soften the stuck-on food for easier cleanup.
Step 5: Reassembly
Lastly, air-dry the different parts of the unit before reassembling them. Following these steps regularly keeps your air fryer clean.
Generally, you should clean the removable parts after every use. For the main unit and heating coil, clean them at least once or twice a week.
Related: Best Mineral Spirits Substitute
Cleaning Air Fryer Baskets
If you've reached this part of the article, the soapy water probably didn't work to clean your air fryer. Don't worry.
I have several methods to deep clean an air fryer with just a few basic ingredients.
Method 1: Baking Soda + Lemon
The first method includes making a paste with baking soda and lemon. Aside from its baking applications, baking soda is also a very efficient tool for cleaning.
Its abrasive grit helps remove the smallest food residue on your tools without scratching the surface, making it perfect for metal utensils like a deep fryer or air fryer parts with nonstick coating.
Mix two tablespoons of baking soda with lemon juice (about half a lemon) before adding a teaspoon of hot water.
Pour the mix into the air fryer basket and scrub the surface with a sponge or an old toothbrush.
One major disadvantage of this method is it's not very effective against old grime that has been sitting in the basket for quite a while.
Nonetheless, the lemony aroma is perfect for removing strong scents (like garlic odor) from the basket.
You can also try using organic oil the next time you cook in an air fryer so you can avoid deep-cleaning your basket.
Method 2: Vinegar + Lemon
If baked-on grease and oil are a major concern and the paste doesn't work, you can loosen the food residue first with vinegar.
Simply mix ¼ cup of vinegar with the juice of half of a lemon. It's best to use white vinegar for its milder scent.
Transfer the mixture to an air fryer-friendly container (avoid using glassware) and place it in the basket. Set the temperature of the air fryer to 400°F and let it run for about five minutes.
Let the air fryer cool completely before cleaning the basket with the abovementioned method. Rinse it with running water and use paper towels to dry the basket.
Method 3: Dish Soap
If you don't have vinegar or lemon at home, don't worry! You can still achieve a similar effect with just your dish soap. However, you want to use an effective brand in the first place.
For this method, fill half the air fryer basket with water and add several drops of dishwashing liquid. Let it air fry for two to three minutes at 400°F.
Let it cool down for several minutes before scrubbing the surface with the soft side of a sponge.
Method 4: Dish Soap + Vinegar + Baking Soda
If the dishwashing liquid or the methods above still don't get the food residues out, it's time for a stronger mixture.
This method takes a little longer but should be more effective than the previous ones. Add a generous amount of dishwashing liquid to the air fryer basket and mix it with two tablespoons of baking soda.
Fill around ¾ of the basket with hot water and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, add two tablespoons of vinegar and leave it for another 10 minutes. Vinegar is a versatile cleaner and should help you loosen food residue.
After waiting, pour the solution into the sink and clean your air fryer basket by gently scrubbing it with a sponge.
Method 5: Dish Soap + Baking Soda + Hydrogen Peroxide
If none of the methods above work for your air fryer basket, it's time to call on the big guns. This method doesn't include running air fryers or letting solutions sit in the basket.
In a small bowl, mix two tablespoons of hydrogen peroxide, two tablespoons of baking soda, and two tablespoons of dishwashing liquid (the stronger, the better).
This should allow you to create a paste. Dab your clean cloth with the paste and use it to wipe your favorite kitchen appliance clean.
You can also mix the ingredients directly onto the basket. Try scrubbing it with a soft-bristle toothbrush for a couple of minutes for efficiency.
Rinse it under warm water before wiping it with a towel and putting the drawer back in the unit.
Pro-Tip: Try using organic olive oil the next time you cook in an air fryer to prevent food from sticking to the surface.
From Everyday Use to Deep Cleaning
There you have it. My comprehensive guide on how to clean air fryer baskets. The steps and methods above should guarantee that your air fryer always functions efficiently.
For more cleaning tips, feel free to visit Also The Crumbs, Please. I also have posts on recipes, ingredient substitutions, and product reviews that should help you maximize your air fryer experience.
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