Fire and rescue services across the UK have issued a stark safety warning to the millions of households now using air fryers, urging them to steer clear of risky online cleaning 'hacks' that could lead to serious damage or even fires.
The Viral Trend Sparking Concern
With more than half of the country now owning one of these popular kitchen gadgets, the scramble for quick cleaning solutions has led many to social media platforms like TikTok. Here, users frequently share so-called effortless methods to tackle baked-on grease. However, firefighters are raising the alarm about one particularly dangerous trend: adding liquid cleaning products or soap to the appliance's basket and then turning it on in an attempt to 'cook' the mess away.
This method, they stress, is not only ineffective but poses a significant risk. Air fryers are pressurised during use, and introducing chemicals not designed for high heat can damage components, create toxic fumes, or cause electrical faults that may overheat.
Official Cleaning Guidance You Should Follow
The clear advice from safety experts is to always refer to the manufacturer's specific cleaning and care instructions that came with your appliance. This is the only way to guarantee you are using methods and products that won't compromise its safety features.
Key recommendations include removing all loose food and excess oil after every use and ensuring the appliance is fully clean before its next operation. Crucially, you should avoid abrasive cleaners or scouring pads, especially on any tempered glass surfaces, as they can cause tiny scratches that weaken the glass over time.
Firefighters also warn that rough handling during cleaning can dislodge or damage carefully insulated internal wiring or heating elements. This damage is often invisible but can lead to malfunctions or overheating when the appliance is next used.
Real Users Share Their Cleaning Mistakes
The dangers of using the wrong products were highlighted recently in an online discussion. One Reddit user detailed a mishap with their Ninja air fryer, writing: "I used Dawn Powerwash and a sponge to clean out the Ninja air fryer and now I’ve noticed the tray has some ‘white’ colouring on it. Should I throw it out and get a replacement tray, or is it safe to use?"
Other users chimed in with advice and their own experiences. One replied reassuringly, suggesting the white marks were likely minor damage to the non-stick coating but the tray was probably still safe if thoroughly rinsed. They emphasised: "For the future, don’t use anything abrasive when you clean."
Alternative, safer cleaning methods were suggested, such as using a paste of baking soda or a soak with white vinegar, followed by a gentle wipe with a soft cloth or non-scratch pad.
The core message from fire services is simple: while keeping your air fryer clean is essential for hygiene and performance, cutting corners with unverified online trends is not worth the risk. Taking a few extra minutes to clean it properly by the book ensures your kitchen stays safe.
