Air fryers look ‘good as new’ when cleaned using expert’s easy method

Air fryers have become a kitchen essential for households across the UK in recent years. Offering a healthier and more energy-efficient way of cooking, they can also cook many foods faster than a conventional oven could.

Keeping your air fryer clean is another matter, however, with many often neglecting the appliance between uses. It is generally recommended to give the basket a quick clean out after each use, giving it a deeper clean after every three or four times. But while cleaning your air fryer and removing any grease or grime build-up can initially seem intimidating, it can actually be a really simple process.

Isabella Forgione, AO’s small appliance expert, has shared her simple tips for cleaning your air fryer.

She said: “The right method for cleaning your air fryer will depend on the type of air fryer you have.

“When cleaning a grill style air fryer, it is important to ensure that the appliance is unplugged and left to cool completely.

“Once cooled, remove the grill and then clean with dish soap and warm water. It’s also key to empty the drip tray at the bottom of your fryer and scrub away any grease with soap and warm water.”

She added: “Before replacing the racks and drip tray, wipe down the inside of the air fryer with a wet paper towel to remove any build-up inside.

“Once you’re done, replace the tray and grill and your air fryer is ready for it’s next use. When cleaning a basket style air fryer, again wait for the appliance to cool before removing the basket.

“With a soft bristle brush, soap and warm water brush the basket to remove any grease and dirt.”

Continuing onto the next step, she added: “With a wet paper towel gently wipe the interior and exterior of the appliance before replacing the basket. Sometimes you may find that your air fryer needs an extra deep clean due to gunk and sticky residue building up.

“To get rid of this, simply wash your air fryer as usual and then mix baking soda and water together to make a thick paste. Put the paste on a damp dish cloth and use it to gently scrub the affected areas.

“Once done, rinse off any residue and your air fryer will be as good as new.”