Expert shares 'least effort' air fryer cleaning method 'that works'

Air fryers are a staple in kitchens throughout the UK, with millions of households owning at least one gadget to cut down on time and energy while cooking. Yet the cleaning process has some users at odds over the most effective method. A number of so-called 'dangerous' hacks have emerged on social media, suggesting you can quickly clean air fryers by running them with soapy water inside. This could result in appliances being damaged, pose a risk of sparking a fire or trigger electrical issues. A Which? spokesperson claims that the 'best' approach isn't some clever life hack that takes mere seconds. For the best long-term results, sticking to traditional methods is often the key to getting the most from your air fryer, reports the Express . They said: "Cleaning after every use might seem like a bit of a chore , but it actually uses the least effort in the long run. Obviously, unplug it first and let the whole thing cool down. "Don't let it stand too long, as this gives oils a chance to solidify, bonds to form with the basket, and starches start dehydrating, getting locked in to the nooks and crannies of the surfaces. Mop up any oil with a paper towel so it doesn't end up clogging your pipes." A sink brimming with warm, soapy water remains the most effective way to clean these appliances, they added. While some maintain that the baskets are dishwasher-safe, Which? strongly advises against this wherever possible, as the intensity of a dishwasher can gradually erode the non-stick coating on air fryer components over time. The spokesperson added: "Don't forget to check inside the appliance, as grease and food might be sticking to the walls. Use a damp cloth or a gentle sponge to wipe it away. "Every month or so, you should give your air fryer a deeper clean. Go at the heating element with an old toothbrush and a damp cloth. Don't be too rough and don't use too much water." Which? warned against using anything abrasive, such as a scourer or scraper, even on particularly stubborn patches. Doing so could damage the basket or heating elements, leading to reduced cooking performance or even a potential safety hazard. Recent figures suggest that as many as two-thirds (66%) of UK households now own an air fryer, making them just as common as the microwave, toaster or kettle. A considerable number of owners (nearly 75%) use their air fryer more frequently than their conventional oven, while 33% have abandoned using their oven altogether. To find more air fryer hints and tips, go to the dedicated air fryer section of our site here . It features recipes to experiment with, shopping deals on the latest models, and advice on getting the very best from this popular kitchen gadget. For instance, this tip makes frozen chips that are "tastier and crispier" in the air fryer. Meanwhile, our shopping team has tracked down a 'game-changer' Ninja air fryer available for just £186. There was also a recent safety warning about where air fryers should never go in a kitchen . It comes from Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue's Station Manager Richard Booth after the station attended to nine fires caused by air fryers in the space of 10 months.