52+ Effortless Air Fryer Cleaning Hacks​

Air Fryer Cleaning Hacks​ can be a bit tricky, but with a few smart hacks, it becomes a breeze! First, unplug and let the fryer cool before cleaning. Use a damp cloth to wipe the exterior and the basket. For stubborn grease, soak the basket and tray in warm soapy water. A soft brush or toothbrush works wonders for getting into small crevices. Baking soda paste (baking soda + water) can tackle tough stains inside. Regular Air Fryer Cleaning Hacks​ helps maintain its performance and prevents lingering odors. Plus, it’ll keep your meals tasting fresh.

Soapy Water Wash

An easy method to clean your air fryer is by using good old soapy water. It’s gentle yet effective for removing grease and food remnants.

Materials Used: Dish soap, warm water, sponge or cloth

Steps:

1. Unplug the air fryer and let it cool down completely.
2. Remove the basket and tray from the air fryer.
3. Mix warm water with a few drops of dish soap.
4. Dip a soft sponge or cloth into the soapy water and gently wipe down the interior and exterior.
5. Use a clean, damp cloth to wipe away any soap residue.
6. Dry the parts with a clean towel before reassembling the air fryer.

Baking Soda Paste

Baking soda is a fantastic cleaner due to its natural abrasive qualities that can scrub away stubborn grease.

Materials Used: Baking soda, water, bowl, sponge

Steps:

1. Unplug and cool down your air fryer.
2. Create a paste by mixing baking soda and water in a bowl.
3. Apply the paste on greasy spots inside the basket and on the tray.
4. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to break down the grease.
5. Use a sponge to scrub away the paste and residue.
6. Rinse with warm water and dry before use.

Lemon Juice and Vinegar Solution

Lemon juice combined with vinegar creates a powerful degreaser and leaves your air fryer smelling fresh.

Materials Used: Lemon juice, white vinegar, water, spray bottle, cloth

Steps:

1. Mix 2 parts water, 1 part vinegar, and a tablespoon of lemon juice in a spray bottle.
2. Shake the bottle to mix the ingredients well.
3. Spray the solution onto the interior surfaces of the air fryer basket and tray.
4. Wipe with a soft cloth to clean off grease and stains.
5. Rinse with water, dry thoroughly, and reassemble.

Dishwasher Safe Components

Many air fryers come with dishwasher-safe baskets and trays, so why not use the dishwasher for an easy clean?

 

Materials Used: Dishwasher

Steps:

1. Remove the basket and tray from the air fryer.
2. Check the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure they’re dishwasher-safe.
3. Place the components on the top rack of your dishwasher.
4. Run a regular wash cycle.
5. Once cleaned, dry thoroughly before reassembling the air fryer.

Toothbrush for Scrubbing

An old toothbrush is the perfect tool for getting into the tight nooks and crannies of your air fryer.

Materials Used: Toothbrush, warm water, dish soap, sponge

Steps:

1. Unplug and cool down your air fryer.
2. Mix warm water and dish soap in a bowl.
3. Dip the toothbrush into the soapy water and scrub around tight areas like the corners, vents, and heating element.
4. Use a damp cloth to wipe down the cleaned areas.
5. Dry the components thoroughly before putting everything back.

Vinegar Steam Cleaning

Vinegar steam cleaning is a non-toxic method that helps loosen grease and grime from the air fryer’s interior.

Materials Used: White vinegar, water, bowl

Steps:

1. Fill a bowl with 1 cup of white vinegar and 1 cup of water.
2. Place the bowl in the air fryer basket.
3. Set the air fryer to 350°F and run it for about 10 minutes.
4. After the cycle ends, open the air fryer and let the steam cool down.
5. Wipe the interior with a damp cloth to remove loosened grease.

Non-Abrasive Sponge Scrub

A non-abrasive sponge helps clean without damaging the coating on the air fryer’s basket and tray.

Materials Used: Non-abrasive sponge, warm water, dish soap

Steps:

1. Unplug and allow the air fryer to cool down.
2. Add dish soap to a bowl of warm water.
3. Dip the non-abrasive sponge into the soapy water and gently scrub the basket and tray.
4. Rinse with clean water to remove soap residue.
5. Dry with a towel and let the components air dry completely.

Foil Liner Cleanup

Using foil liners can keep the air fryer clean from the get-go by collecting grease and food debris.

Materials Used: Aluminum foil, air fryer basket

Steps:

1. Before cooking, line the basket with an aluminum foil liner.
2. After cooking, carefully remove the foil, which should contain the grease and crumbs.
3. Wipe the basket with a damp cloth to remove any leftover food.
4. Clean the tray with soapy water if necessary.

Magic Eraser for Stubborn Spots

Magic erasers are excellent for tackling stubborn spots and stains on the air fryer surfaces.

Materials Used: Magic eraser, water

Steps:

1. Moisten the magic eraser with water.
2. Gently scrub the problem areas on the air fryer, such as grease stains or burnt food.
3. Rinse with water to remove any residue.
4. Dry thoroughly before reassembling.

Citrus Peel Wipe Down

Citrus peel has natural oils that can help break down grease while leaving a fresh scent behind.

Materials Used: Citrus peel (orange or lemon), cloth

Steps:

1. After cooling the air fryer, take a citrus peel (orange or lemon works well).
2. Use the peel to wipe down the interior of the air fryer.
3. The natural oils will help remove grease and leave a pleasant scent.
4. Follow up with a dry cloth to finish cleaning.

Compressed Air for Vents

Air fryers have vents that can collect dust and food particles. Using compressed air can clean these tight spots effectively.

Materials Used: Can of compressed air

Steps:

1. Unplug the air fryer and let it cool down.
2. Hold the compressed air can several inches away from the vents.
3. Spray the air into the vents to remove any dust or debris.
4. Repeat as necessary and then wipe down the exterior for a fresh look.

Baking Soda and Vinegar Soak

Soaking the removable parts in a baking soda and vinegar mixture helps lift heavy grease and grime.

Materials Used: Baking soda, vinegar, warm water, bowl

Steps:

1. Fill a bowl with warm water, adding 2 tablespoons of baking soda and 1 cup of vinegar.
2. Submerge the basket and tray in the mixture.
3. Let them soak for 15-20 minutes to loosen grease.
4. After soaking, scrub with a soft sponge, rinse, and dry.

Coconut Oil Wipe

Coconut oil is great for removing stubborn, sticky food particles.

Materials Used: Coconut oil, cloth

Steps:

1. Unplug the air fryer and let it cool down.
2. Apply a small amount of coconut oil to a cloth.
3. Use the cloth to wipe the interior and tray, targeting greasy spots.
4. Wipe again with a clean cloth to remove any excess oil.

Baby Wipes for Quick Clean

For a quick, hassle-free cleanup after cooking, baby wipes can be a lifesaver.

Materials Used: Baby wipes

Steps:

1. After cooling the air fryer, grab a baby wipe.
2. Use the wipe to gently clean the basket and tray.
3. Wipe down the exterior as well to remove fingerprints and dust.
4. Dispose of the wipe and let the air fryer dry.

Dishwasher Detergent Tablets

A dishwasher tablet can be used for an easy soak and scrub method when cleaning your air fryer.

Materials Used: Dishwasher tablet, warm water, bowl

Steps:

1. Fill a bowl with warm water and drop a dishwasher tablet in.
2. Submerge the basket and tray in the solution and let it soak for 15-20 minutes.
3. After soaking, use a soft sponge to scrub the interior.
4. Rinse thoroughly with clean water, then dry.

Essential Oils for Freshness

Essential oils can help freshen up your air fryer after cleaning.

Materials Used: Essential oils, water, spray bottle

Steps:

1. Fill a spray bottle with water and add a few drops of essential oil.
2. Shake the bottle to mix the oils.
3. Lightly spritz the interior of the air fryer and wipe it down with a soft cloth.
4. This will leave your air fryer smelling fresh and clean.

Rice Flour to Absorb Oil

Rice flour can be used to absorb excess oil and grease from the air fryer basket.

Materials Used: Rice flour, paper towel

Steps:

1. Sprinkle a small amount of rice flour over the greasy areas inside the air fryer.
2. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
3. Use a paper towel to wipe away the absorbed grease and flour.
4. Clean any remaining residue with a damp cloth.

Steam Cleaning with Lemon Slices

Lemon slices are a natural alternative to vinegar for steam cleaning and disinfecting.

Materials Used: Lemon slices, water, bowl

Steps:

1. Fill a bowl with water and add fresh lemon slices.
2. Place the bowl in the air fryer basket and set it to 350°F for 10 minutes.
3. Let the steam clean and loosen grease inside.
4. Wipe down the interior with a cloth after cooling.

Hot Water Rinse

Sometimes, all it takes is a hot water rinse to clean your air fryer without scrubbing.

Materials Used: Hot water, cloth or sponge

Steps:

1. Unplug the air fryer and let it cool down.
2. Rinse the basket and tray under hot water.
3. Use a cloth or sponge to gently wipe the basket to remove any stuck food.
4. Dry the components thoroughly before putting them back.

Towel Wrap Cleanse

Wrap the air fryer basket in a damp towel for easy cleaning.

Materials Used: Damp towel, dish soap

Steps:

1. After cooling, dampen a towel with soapy water.
2. Wrap the towel around the air fryer basket for 10 minutes to loosen grease.
3. Unwrap the towel and wipe the basket clean.
4. Dry thoroughly and let it air out before using again.

Coffee Grounds for Deodorizing

Coffee grounds can be used as a natural deodorizer to remove lingering food smells.

Materials Used: Coffee grounds, small bowl

Steps:

1. Place a small bowl of coffee grounds inside the air fryer.
2. Close the air fryer and run it at a low temperature for 5-10 minutes.
3. The coffee grounds will absorb odors and leave a fresh scent behind.
4. Remove the bowl and wipe down the interior.

DIY Degreaser Spray

Make your own degreaser spray using everyday ingredients.

Materials Used: Dish soap, baking soda, vinegar, water, spray bottle

Steps:

1. Mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda, 1 tablespoon of dish soap, 1 cup of vinegar, and 2 cups of water in a spray bottle.
2. Shake the bottle well to combine.
3. Spray the solution onto greasy spots and let it sit for a few minutes.
4. Wipe away the grease with a damp cloth.

Use a Soft Brush for Crumbs

A soft brush can sweep crumbs and small food particles out of hard-to-reach areas.

Materials Used: Soft brush, cloth

Steps:

1. Unplug the air fryer and cool it down.
2. Use a soft brush to sweep crumbs from vents and corners.
3. Wipe the interior with a damp cloth to remove any residual food particles.
4. Dry thoroughly before reassembling.

Salt Scrub for Tough Spots

Salt is another natural abrasive option to scrub away tough grease.

Materials Used: Salt, cloth or sponge

Steps:

1. Sprinkle a generous amount of salt on tough, greasy spots.
2. Use a damp sponge or cloth to scrub the salt into the grease.
3. Rinse with warm water and dry before use.

Aluminum Foil Ball Scrub

Use an aluminum foil ball to scrub off stubborn burnt food or grease without damaging the air fryer.

Materials Used: Aluminum foil

Steps:

1. Crumple a small piece of aluminum foil into a ball.
2. Use the foil ball to scrub the interior of the air fryer.
3. Rinse off any debris and dry thoroughly.

Quick Air Fryer Cleaning Hacks​ for Busy People

Cleaning up after cooking can often feel like an overwhelming task, especially when you’re juggling a packed schedule. Luckily, there are simple and efficient Air Fryer Cleaning Hacks​ to clean your kitchen appliances with minimal effort. One appliance that frequently accumulates grease and crumbs is the air fryer. With just a few quick hacks, you can have your air fryer spotless in no time and avoid dealing with stubborn buildup later. Here are some helpful tips for cleaning your air fryer in just a few minutes:

How to Clean Your Air Fryer in Just a Few Minutes:

1. Unplug and Cool Down: Before cleaning, always unplug the air fryer and let it cool down completely to avoid burns.
2. Quick Wipe-Down After Every Use: After each use, grab a damp cloth and quickly wipe down the basket and exterior. This prevents grease from accumulating and makes deep cleaning easier next time.
3. Remove and Clean the Basket and Tray: After cooking, remove the basket and tray. Wash them with warm, soapy water and a non-abrasive sponge. For stubborn grease, soak them in soapy water for a few minutes.
4. Use Baking Soda for Stubborn Buildup: If there’s baked-on grease, sprinkle a little baking soda on the affected areas. Let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub gently to remove the residue.

Air Fryer Cleaning Hacks​ Mistakes to Avoid

Air fryers have quickly become a must-have appliance in kitchens around the world, offering a healthier alternative to deep frying. However, keeping your air fryer clean and in good working order can be a bit tricky. If you’re not careful, certain cleaning mistakes could damage your appliance, reducing its lifespan or efficiency. Here are some common Air Fryer Cleaning Hacks​ mistakes to avoid and tips on how to protect your air fryer during the cleaning process.

Common Cleaning Mistakes:

1. Using Metal Scrubbers
   • Metal scrubbers can scratch and damage the non-stick coating of your air fryer’s basket and tray.
   • How to avoid: Use a soft sponge, cloth, or a brush designed for non-stick surfaces to gently clean.
2. Soaking Parts That Aren’t Water-Proof
   • Soaking parts like the heating element or the base of the air fryer in water can cause electrical damage.
   • How to avoid: Always check the user manual to see which parts are safe to soak. Typically, only baskets and trays should be soaked.
3. Not Cleaning After Every Use
   • Residue and grease buildup can affect the performance of your air fryer, and over time, can be harder to clean off.
   • How to avoid: Clean your air fryer after every use to maintain its functionality and avoid tough stains.

FAQ

How often should I clean my air fryer?

It’s recommended to clean your air fryer after every use to prevent buildup of grease and food particles. If you’re using it frequently for oily or sticky foods, consider giving it a more thorough clean weekly.

Can I clean my air fryer with soap and water?

Yes, but it’s important to avoid submerging the main unit in water. You can clean the basket and tray with warm, soapy water. Wipe down the main unit with a damp cloth to prevent damage.

What is the best way to clean the air fryer basket?

To clean the basket, soak it in warm soapy water for a few minutes to loosen up any food residue. Use a non-abrasive sponge or brush to scrub it gently. Rinse and dry thoroughly before reassembling.

Can I use vinegar to clean my air fryer?

Yes! Vinegar is a natural degreaser and can help break down stubborn grease. Mix equal parts water and vinegar, then wipe down the inside of the air fryer with a soft cloth.