Air fryers are a fantastic kitchen appliance, but they can quickly become dirty and greasy after multiple uses. Keeping your air fryer clean is essential for maintaining its performance and longevity. This guide will take you through the best way to clean your air fryer thoroughly and effectively.
Disassemble Your Air Fryer
The first step in cleaning your air fryer is to disassemble it completely. Whether your air fryer is a basket type or a toaster oven style with shelves, make sure to remove all components. This will allow you to clean every part thoroughly. Once disassembled, you’ll likely notice crumbs and grease residue inside the unit.
Initial Cleaning: Removing Loose Debris
Before applying any cleaning solution, remove as much loose debris as possible. Use a dry paper towel or, preferably, a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to suck up all the crumbs and greasy particles. This step will make the subsequent cleaning process more manageable.
Choosing the Right Cleaner
When it comes to selecting a cleaner, Dawn Powerwash is a recommended choice. It’s strong enough to cut through grease and grime but gentle enough to avoid damaging the non-stick coating of your air fryer. Avoid using harsh oven cleaners as they can strip away the non-stick surface, rendering your air fryer less effective.
Cleaning the Components
Take all the removable components to your sink and spray them down with Dawn Powerwash. Allow the cleaner to sit for 10 to 20 minutes to break down the grease and grime. While these parts are soaking, you can start cleaning the inside of the air fryer.
Cleaning the Inside of the Air Fryer
Ensure that your air fryer is unplugged before you begin cleaning the interior. Spray Dawn Powerwash inside the unit and let it sit for a few minutes. Avoid spraying directly on the heating element to prevent potential damage. Instead, carefully scrub around the heating element to remove any build-up.
For particularly stubborn, baked-on grime, use steel wool grade 0000. Ensure the surface is well-lubricated with the cleaner before scrubbing. This will help remove any tough spots that regular scrubbing might miss. For tight areas and vents, use a toothpick or a pipe cleaner to reach and clean those difficult spots.
After scrubbing, wipe down all the components and the interior of the air fryer with a damp towel to remove the cleaner and any remaining grease. Pay extra attention to the heating element area to ensure no soap residue is left behind.
Basket Air Fryers
For basket-type air fryers with hard-to-clean nooks and crannies, fill the basket with 2 to 3 cups of water and a squirt of Dawn dish soap. Place it back in the machine and run it at 300°F for 5 minutes. This process creates steam that loosens the grime, making it easier to rinse away.
Final Steps
Once everything is clean and dry, reassemble your air fryer. To ensure any remaining cleaner is completely removed, run the air fryer for 5 to 10 minutes. This will help burn off any residue and leave your air fryer ready for its next use.
By following these steps, your air fryer will be sparkling clean and ready to cook your next meal. Regular cleaning will not only keep your air fryer in top condition but also enhance its performance and longevity.