7 Air Fryer Cleaning Mistakes That Can Damage Your Appliance and Affect Your Health
Air fryers have become a kitchen essential for their convenience and energy efficiency. But if you’re not cleaning yours properly, you could be shortening its lifespan, compromising its performance, or even exposing yourself to harmful particles.
To keep your air fryer in top shape, avoid these seven common cleaning mistakes that professionals steer clear of.
1. Using Abrasive Cleaning Tools
Scrubbing your air fryer with metal scourers, steel wool, or rough sponges might seem like a good way to remove baked-on grease, but it can damage the non-stick coating. Once that coating starts to wear down, tiny particles can mix with your food, posing a health risk.
What to Do Instead:
Use a soft sponge and mild dish soap to clean the basket and tray. If grease is stubborn, soak the removable parts in warm, soapy water before wiping them down.
2. Skipping Cleaning After Every Use
Even though it may seem unnecessary, neglecting to clean your air fryer after each use can lead to grease buildup, unpleasant odors, and even bacterial contamination. Over time, leftover food particles can burn, affecting the taste of your meals.
What to Do Instead:
After each use, wipe down the basket and tray with a damp cloth or sponge. For deep cleaning, soak the removable parts in warm, soapy water and rinse thoroughly.
3. Ignoring the Exterior
While most of the mess happens inside the air fryer, the exterior also collects dust, grease, and fingerprints. If left uncleaned, grime can accumulate around buttons and vents, affecting the appliance’s functionality.
What to Do Instead:
Once the air fryer has cooled down and been unplugged, wipe the exterior with a damp microfiber cloth. For stainless steel finishes, a few drops of essential oil mixed with water can help remove smudges and keep it streak-free.
4. Using Harsh Chemicals
Bleach, oven cleaners, and other strong chemicals might seem like a quick way to clean your air fryer, but they can leave behind harmful residues and damage the non-stick coating.
What to Do Instead:
Stick to mild dish soap and warm water. If you need extra grease-fighting power, a vinegar and water solution can help break down buildup without damaging your appliance.
5. Not Using an Air Fryer Liner
If you frequently cook sticky foods like cheese, sauces, or marinated meats, skipping an air fryer liner can make cleaning much harder. Residue can stick to the basket and tray, leading to stubborn grease buildup over time.
What to Do Instead:
Use a BPA-free silicone liner or parchment paper designed for air fryers. These liners catch spills and crumbs, making cleanup quick and easy.
6. Soaking Electrical Components
Submerging the air fryer base or heating elements in water can permanently damage the appliance. Water and electricity don’t mix, and moisture trapped in the components can cause malfunctions or even safety hazards.
What to Do Instead:
Always unplug the air fryer before cleaning. Wipe the heating element with a damp cloth and avoid getting water near the digital display or electrical parts.
7. Reassembling the Air Fryer While It’s Still Damp
Putting your air fryer back together before it’s completely dry can cause excess moisture to circulate when you turn it on. This can affect performance, create steam buildup, and even lead to electrical damage.
What to Do Instead:
Let all parts air dry completely before reassembling. If needed, use a dry microfiber cloth to speed up the drying process.
Final Thoughts
Properly cleaning your air fryer not only extends its lifespan but also ensures that your meals remain safe and delicious. By avoiding these common mistakes and following these simple cleaning practices, you can keep your air fryer in peak condition for years to come.
