Air fryers have become a must-have in modern kitchens, with many households choosing this energy-efficient gadget over traditional ovens. Many use this appliance to cook favourites like fries, potatoes, and chicken. However, frequent use means frequent cleaning, as grease can accumulate rapidly in air fryers, leading to persistent odours and stains.
Ashleigh Tosh from MuscleFood.com commented: “Air fryers are fantastic for cooking up delicious foods, but they can be a nightmare to clean properly. Grease marks can be the worst for this, especially if they’re left after using the device.” She warned, “Not only will it lead to disgusting smells, but the fryer itself will be a breeding ground for bacteria.”
If you’re seeking a “quick and easy solution to make an air fryer fresh and clean to use”, the expert has shared several handy items — one works in just five minutes.
Baking soda
Sprinkling baking soda in the air fryer can help remove food stains, making them easier to wipe off. Baking soda neutralises acids and breaks down grease, allowing you to wipe it off without a lot of scrubbing.
Fill it with hot water afterwards and drain out all the dirt or grime for a “sparkling finish”.
Lemon
This citrus fruit can aid in “melting off hard, stubborn grease stains” while leaving a refreshing scent behind.
Zoe McLean, a senior home economist at Breville, also suggests using lemons but recommends adding them to water.
She advised: “By adding a (heatproof) bowl of sliced lemons and water and then switching the air fryer on for just five minutes, that will help to remove the smell, leaving your kitchen smelling like a fresh, citrus wonderland.
“Lemons are not only a common household food item but, because of their acidity, a great natural cleaning product that is safe to use in your air fryer.” Not only are lemons a safe addition to your cleaning regimen, but they’re also an affordable buy.
Washing-up liquid
When it comes to tidying up an air fryer right after use, Ashleigh suggests that good old washing-up liquid does the trick wonderfully.
Just combine the detergent with hot water to make sure grease doesn’t get the chance to linger inside the appliance.