This post shows you how to clean an air fryer after daily use in three easy steps. Step by step photos show you exactly how to do it! We also show you how to remove persistent odors.
Just like any kitchen appliance, it's important to clean your air fryer after daily use in order to keep it functioning optimally. How do you do this? Keep reading!
Cleaning your air fryer is an important step as can help prevent greasy build-up, gets rid of the smell or taste of other foods, and can prevent food residue from burning and smoking.
I've put together a simple guide to help you clean your air fryer quickly in just a few simple steps!
Do's and don'ts
- do- unplug and cool your air fryer before cleaning
- don't- never use abrasive cleaning supplies such as steel wool or metal utensils as they can damage nonstick surfaces
- do- clean regularly to prevent greasy build-up (and make cleaning easier!)
- don't- never submerge your air fryer appliance in water or rinse it under the tap as this can ruin it
- do- clean the trays or baskets after removing from the air fryer body
Daily cleaning- basket
1. Unplug + cool- after cooking, cool your air fryer to room temperature before cleaning.
2. Clean the baskets or trays- Remove top and bottom basket and clean with soapy water using a non-abrasive cloth, sponge or brush. For stubborn grease, fill the bottom pan with soapy water and let it sit for 10 minutes before scrubbing with a non abrasive sponge or cloth.
*Note that the Instant Pot Vortex basket air fryer manual states the basket should not be submerged in water. When in doubt, consult your manual.
Dishwasher- Many air fryer brands have dishwasher safe baskets and can be washed this way. Make sure to read your manual if you are unsure of whether your basket is dishwasher safe or not.
Dry thoroughly before placing baskets back into the air fryer.
3. Clean the outside- Wipe down outside of air fryer with a damp cloth. This really helps to prevent greasy buildup which is difficult to remove if it sits for some time.
Daily cleaning- oven
1. Unplug + cool- after cooking, cool your air fryer to room temperature before cleaning.
2. Clean the trays- remove both the tray(s) and drip tray from the air fryer and soak in warm soapy water. Use a non abrasive sponge, cloth or nylon brush to clean. Some trays (Instant Pot Vortex Air Fryer Oven) are dishwasher safe while some (Cuisinart Air Fryer Oven) are not, so make sure to refer to your manual if you are not sure.
You may want to also wipe down the heating element on the upper side of the interior.
Allow trays to thoroughly dry before placing back in the air fryer.
3. Wipe down interior + exterior- using a damp, soapy cloth, wipe down the exterior of the air fryer. Open the door, and wipe down the inside window as well as the walls of the air fryer.
You may want to also wipe down the heating element on the upper side of the interior. Some oven-style models have a crumb tray which can be removed and cleaned in the same way.
Removing smells- basket + oven
If you notice your air fryer develops a smell try this trick:
- cut a lemon in half
- rub the cut side of the lemon over the drawer and the basket
- let it sit for 30 minutes
- wash with soapy water
- dry thoroughly and put the air fryer back together
References
To write this article, I referred to the instruction manuals of
- Cosori air fryer
- Instant Pot Vortex Air Fryer Oven
- Instant Pot Vortex Air Fryer Basket
- Philips XXL air fryer
- Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven
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