Air fryers are a very common sight in many people’s kitchens nowadays (Image: Getty)
With prices soaring and the putting pressure on households, – which are said to be 50 percent more energy efficient than ovens – have become hugely popular.
They’re a real household staple for busy families looking for a quick and easy way to meals.
One added benefit is that they often mean less , but keeping your air fryer clean is the key to ensure that they keep working efficiently. But there’s one method that experts have sounded the alarm over, with the consumer pros at Which? previously hailing it as “the dumbest way to your air fryer and burn down your house.”
The trend involves filling your air fryer basket with warm soapy water and turning it on, in a bid to remove any built-up dirt and grime.
Keeping your air fryer clean is the best way to extend its lifespan (Image: Getty)
Alongside other experts, household cleaning brand has strongly advised against this risky practice – instead, they’ve suggested safer ways to keep your appliance clean and make it last longer.
And the most important thing you should do is clean your air fryer after every use.
The experts said: “This will avoid any oil, grease and grime setting in as it will be much harder to clean the basket if you have to scrub hard food residue away.
“Without cleaning after each use, small crumbs and grime can burn during the next time you cook – leaving your food with an unpleasant taste.”
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Giving your air fryer a good clean after every use will ensure your food tastes better (Image: Getty)
To clean your air fryer safely, first you’ll need to remove the basket and tray and fill your sink with warm soapy water. Let the parks soak for around 10-15 minutes for the best results.
Next, take a sponge or soft-bristle brush, and scrub down the tray and basket before rinsing again. Then take each part and dry it with a clean towel.
Make sure both parts are completely dry before re-using them, as moisture can damage the appliance.
You should also use a damp cloth to clean the air fryer’s interior, making sure you’ve not missed any spots of grease.
The exterior of the air fryer also collects dust, fingerprints, and grease, so it is important to take a cloth and wipe the exterior, paying special attention to buttons and the control panel.
Avoid spraying cleaner directly onto electronic components to prevent damage. Once the air fryer and all its parts are clean, allow them to air dry completely or wipe them with a clean towel before reassembling.