Air fryers have become a staple in many kitchens, simplifying meal preparation. To keep the appliance in good condition, a deep clean is sometimes necessary to tackle stubborn grime, especially in hard-to-reach areas.
The Method
Cleaning expert and TikTok creator Chantel Mila, known as Mama Mila, shared her preferred technique. Start by removing the basket and placing it in the sink. Apply a generous coating of bicarbonate of soda to the basket, ensuring stuck-on food and grease are thoroughly covered. Then drizzle washing-up liquid over it and pour boiling water from a kettle over the mixture, washing away the fizzing bicarbonate of soda. This process loosens burnt-on food. Let it soak until the grease and grime are loosened, then drain the dirty water. No scrubbing is required.
Why It Works
Baking soda and washing-up liquid are effective together. Baking soda is mildly abrasive and helps break down greasy residue. Washing-up liquid contains surfactants that lower surface tension, allowing water and oil to mix, and also targets bacteria that baking soda alone may not eliminate. These two products work by encasing and lifting grease and dirt particles. Baking soda also acts as a natural deodoriser. Baking brand Dr Oetker explained: "Most nasty smells in the air contain some sort of acid. As an alkali, baking soda reacts with those acids and neutralises them."
