Cleaning an airfryer regularly is essential to keep the machine in top condition and ensure that your food tastes just as good every time. A dirty airfryer can not only affect the flavour, but also reduce the performance and lifespan of the machine. Here are our top tips for cleaning your airfryer and removing grease, food residues and bad odours.
Why is it important to clean an airfryer?
Airfryers are known to make cooking healthier and faster, but without regular cleaning, grease and food residues can build up. This can cause:
- Bad odour in the airfryer
- Reduced efficiency of the heating element
- Difficulties in removing ingrained dirt
Learning how to clean an airfryer properly will ensure it works properly and lasts longer.
Step-by-step guide
Here are 7 simple steps to clean your airfryer:
Step 1: Let the air fryer cool completely
- Protect yourself: Before you start cleaning the air fryer, let it cool down completely. This will protect you from burns and make it safer to handle the parts.
Step 2: Empty and clean the basket and insert
- Remove loose food scraps: Empty the basket and the insert of crumbs and grease. Use kitchen paper to wipe away most of it.
- Wash in warm water: Wash the basket and insert in warm water with a few drops of washing-up liquid. Use a soft sponge to avoid scratching the non-stick coating.
- Check for machine dishwashing: Many airfryers have dishwasher-safe parts. Check the user manual for your model to be sure.
Step 3: Clean the inside of the airfryer
- Wipe with a damp cloth: Use a microfibre cloth or soft cloth to wipe off grease and food residue on the inside.
- Avoid injuries: Do not use metal tools or hard brushes that can damage the surface of the machine.
Step 4: Clean the heating element
- Brush off any dirt: If the heating element has stuck grease or food residues, use a soft brush to gently remove them.
- Wipe with a slightly damp cloth: Be careful not to use too much water as the heating element is an electrical component.
Step 5: Wipe the outside
- Use a damp cloth: Clean the outside of the airfryer. If necessary, apply a mild detergent, but avoid strong chemicals that can damage the surface.
Step 6: Remove bad odours in the airfryer
- Use lemon juice or vinegar: Place a small bowl of water mixed with lemon juice or vinegar in the basket.
- Run on low heat: Start the airfryer on a low temperature for a few minutes to neutralise the smell.
- Wipe dry: Finish by drying the basket and the insert thoroughly.
Step 7: Make cleaning a habit
- After each use: Clean the basket and the inside after each use to prevent dirt and grease build-up.
- Deeper cleaning: Once a month, you can do a more extensive cleaning, including the heating element and the internal parts of the machine.
Tips and advice
Follow these tips to achieve the best results:
- Clean up immediately: Clean the airfryer as soon as it has cooled down to prevent grease and food residues from sticking.
- Avoid sharp tools: Always use soft cleaning tools to preserve the non-stick coating.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use steel wool to clean my airfryer?
No, steel wool or hard brushes can scratch the surface and ruin the non-stick coating. Always use soft cleaning tools.
How often should I clean my airfryer?
Clean the basket and the insert after each use. Do a deeper cleaning of the whole machine at least once a month.
Can I use vinegar to clean the air fryer?
Yes, vinegar is an excellent natural cleaner that helps remove grease and bad odours.
