Air fryers have become a staple in many British kitchens due to their convenience and time-saving benefits. However, like a traditional oven, they need regular cleaning to prevent grease and grime from building up.
Keeping the appliance clean is not only about food tasting good but also about basic hygiene. Cleaning expert Ida, who has 2.3 million followers on TikTok as @cleaningwithida, has shared a simple method that avoids heavy scrubbing. She explains: "Quit the scrubbing, this hack does the work for you."
How the hack works
Ida removes the air fryer trays and places them on the kitchen worktop. She adds washing-up liquid and bicarbonate of soda to the trays, then fills them with boiling water. After leaving the mixture to soak for 15 minutes, she transfers the trays to the sink for a thorough rinse, dries them off, and returns them to the appliance.
According to appliance manufacturer Russell Hobbs, the basket should be washed after every single use to "protect it from the build up of food". The brand adds: "If you use air fryer liners, you may not need to clean the basket as often, but it's important to still clean it after every few uses."
Cleaning the basket and exterior
Both the basket and the removable crisping plate can typically go in the dishwasher. A more thorough clean may be needed if persistent food residue or greasy deposits remain.
The exterior of the air fryer is often overlooked. Although it does not touch food directly, it can collect an oily film or food splashes from regular use. A simple wipe with a cloth and gentle detergent should be enough, according to experts at Lakeland. The exterior must be completely dry before switching the machine back on.
Why regular cleaning matters
Sage Appliances warns that lingering food debris can become "a breeding ground for bacteria". A grease-covered air fryer can also perform poorly. If the heating element is coated in grease, heat distribution is compromised, potentially leading to "uneven cooking". A build-up of grease can restrict airflow, so proper cleaning is essential for perfectly cooked meals.
