In the midst of escalating energy bills and cost-of-living crunch, air fryers have been embraced by many as a power-saving alternative to traditional ovens, with claims that they can be up to 50 per cent more energy efficient.
They’ve become a go-to for busy families looking for a quick and easy way to cook meals.
An additional perk of using air fryers is often less washing up – but maintaining cleanliness in your device is crucial to keep it in good working order. However, a cleaning method has come under fire from experts, with Which? disparaging it as “the dumbest way to clean your air fryer and burn down your house.”
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This method sees users attempt to clean their air fryer baskets by filling them with warm soapy water and switching it on in hopes of tackling build-up grease and dirt, reports the Express.
But cleaning experts at Method strongly advise against doing this, instead recommending a safe cleaning alternative that won’t damage your device or home.
They say the most important thing to do is make sure you’re cleaning your air fryer after every use. They 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.”
To safely clean your air fryer, start by removing the basket and tray and put them in a sink filled with warm soapy water. Allow these parts to soak for approximately 10-15 minutes for best results.
Following this, use a sponge or soft-bristle brush to scrub down the tray and basket before giving them another rinse. Then, dry each part thoroughly using a clean towel.
Ensure both components are entirely dry before reusing them, as any moisture could potentially harm the appliance.
Additionally, it’s best to use a damp cloth to cleanse the interior of the air fryer, ensuring no spots of grease are missed.
The exterior of the air fryer is also prone to gathering dust, fingerprints, and grease, so it’s crucial to wipe it down with a cloth, paying particular attention to buttons and the control panel.
Avoid spraying cleaner directly onto electronic elements to steer clear of any damage. Once the air fryer and all its components are clean, let them air dry completely or wipe them down with a clean towel before putting them back together.