Buzz
In recent years, air fryers have surged in popularity. These countertop gadgets are celebrated for their ability to produce crispy, flavorful dishes with significantly less oil compared to traditional deep fryers. From chicken wings to egg rolls and Brussels sprouts, the air fryer can handle it all. However, there's one downside: cleaning it can sometimes be a hassle.
We consulted appliance experts from Cuisinart to gather tips on cleaning your air fryer with minimal effort. Armed with the right tools and methods—including a brush that makes removing stubborn food residue a breeze—keeping your air fryer clean doesn’t have to be an overwhelming task.
How Often Should You Clean Your Air Fryer?
According to Hannah Machuga, senior product manager at Cuisinart, it’s important to clean your air fryer basket after each use and to give the entire appliance a thorough cleaning every few uses. Although air fryers use less oil, greasy residue can still accumulate.
To make cleaning your air fryer easier, avoid leaving it dirty overnight as that will cause food residue to harden, making it tougher to clean. Be sure to give it a more thorough cleaning when you notice any of the following:
- A foul odor
- Baked-on food particles
- Grease or oil buildup
- Crumbs
Things to Keep in Mind Before You Start Cleaning
Before you begin cleaning, carefully review your air fryer's manual for specific instructions about cleaning your particular model. Some components are hand-wash only, while others may be dishwasher safe.
Certain removable parts—typically the basket, pan, and divider—are generally safe for the dishwasher. However, since air fryers are quite easy to clean by hand, using the dishwasher is typically not recommended. Even on the gentlest cycle, the strong water pressure could potentially harm the nonstick coating.
There's a popular air fryer cleaning hack where people add soapy water and run the appliance. However, this is not recommended. Abigail Friedman advises, "It is not recommended to turn on the unit after putting soapy water on the inside surfaces." While this method might seem like a more thorough cleaning, it could actually harm your air fryer, especially if there are oils or residues left in the basket.
What You'll Need
Required Tools and Equipment
- Stainless steel bristle brush
- Cleaning cloth
- Non-scratch scrubber sponge or soft-bristled brush
Necessary Materials
- Dish soap
Instructions
How to Clean Your Air Fryer Using Soap and Water
According to Machuga, the most effective method to clean your air fryer is by using warm soapy water. "We recommend letting the basket soak in warm, soapy water first and then gently scrubbing it with a non-abrasive sponge in the sink," explains Machuga. This helps loosen stubborn food bits and sticky residue.
No matter if you have an air fryer with a basket or one that resembles a toaster oven, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to clean it:
Remove and Soak the Basket or Grate
Place the air fryer basket, grate, and any other removable parts in hot, soapy water to make cleaning easier later on. Let them soak for at least 10 minutes to loosen any stuck-on food particles.
Scrub and Rinse Plastic Components
Use a non-abrasive scrubber sponge or a soft-bristled brush to clean the air fryer pan and basket, removing any food residue and grease. Rinse the basket thoroughly to ensure all soap and residue are washed away. Allow it to air dry.
Scrub the Air Fryer Racks
If your air fryer features metal racks, use a stainless steel bristle brush to scrub them and quickly eliminate any fried-on food.
Be careful not to use a stainless steel bristle brush on the heating element or any other delicate parts of the appliance, as this could cause scratches.
Clean the Heating Element
If any food is stuck to the heating element, gently wipe it off with a damp sponge or soft-bristled brush. Avoid using steel wool or abrasive materials, as they could damage the element’s coating.
Clean the Exterior
Like other kitchen appliances, you should never submerge the air fryer in water. Instead, use a damp cloth to wipe down the exterior and the base inside the basket or the part that holds it.
How to Eliminate and Prevent Odors in an Air Fryer
Depending on what you’re cooking, there are several methods to tackle any lingering odors in your air fryer.
Machuga suggests that if your air fryer starts to emit unwanted smells, a thorough cleaning may be necessary. "Soak the air fryer's basket and crisper plate in warm, soapy water, using a soap designed to break down oil. After soaking, scrub off any remaining food or grease with a non-abrasive sponge," she advises.
While vinegar is often used as a cleaning agent to remove odors, Friedman doesn't recommend it as the first option.
"Yes, it is possible to clean your air fryer with vinegar, although it’s not something we typically do here," she explains. "One approach is to create a paste by mixing baking soda and liquid dish soap, then apply it to the surfaces you want to clean, like the air fry basket and crisper plate. Afterward, place a paper towel soaked with diluted white vinegar on the surface. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes before wiping it clean."
