Anyone with an air fryer urged to keep away from dangerous error that would ‘burn your own home down’
Air fryers have become a popular kitchen gadget in recent years, but experts warn against a common cleaning mistake that could pose a significant fire risk
With the cost of living crisis and energy prices hitting the roof, air fryers are now the kitchen must-have due as they’re said to be 50 percent more efficient than traditional ovens.
They’ve become quite the hit among busy families needing a quick and easy solution for mealtimes. And as an added plus, there’s often less washing up too.
However, air fryers do require regular cleaning to ensure they stay in good working order. The consumer experts at Which? have advised against it before, labelling it “the dumbest way to clean your air fryer and burn down your house.”
The hack involves filling your air fryer basket with warm soapy water and switching it on, in a bid to banish any stubborn dirt and grime, reports the Express.
The cleaning pros at Method are waving the red flag at this hazardous method too, and instead they’ve suggested a much safer cleaning alternative.
And the top tip is to give your air fryer a good scrub-down every time you use it. They’ve experts said: “This will avoid any oil, grease and grime setting in as it will be much harder to clean the basket if you have to scrub hard food residue away.
“Without cleaning after each use, small crumbs and grime can burn during the next time you cook – leaving your food with an unpleasant taste.”
To safely clean your air fryer, start by removing the basket and tray and filling your sink with warm soapy water. Allow these parts to soak for about 10-15 minutes for optimal results.
Then, using a sponge or soft-bristle brush, give the tray and basket a good scrub before rinsing them off. Dry each part thoroughly with a clean towel.
Ensure both components are completely dry before you use them again, as any remaining moisture could potentially damage the appliance.
Additionally, it’s recommended to wipe down the interior of the air fryer with a damp cloth, ensuring no spots of grease are left behind.
The exterior of the air fryer can also accumulate dust, fingerprints, and grease, so it’s crucial to regularly wipe it down, paying particular attention to buttons and the control panel.
Avoid spraying cleaning products directly onto electronic parts to prevent causing any damage. Once all parts of the air fryer are clean, either let them air dry fully or wipe them down with a clean towel before putting everything back together.
