Air fryers have earned their place on kitchen counters by making everything from crispy fries to quick weeknight dinners easier to prepare. But while the appliance can save you time when cooking, experts say you shouldn't be quite so eager when it comes to cleaning it. In fact, there's one simple rule owners should follow before reaching for the sponge, and that is to wait at least 30 minutes after use.
The warning comes from Electrical Safety First, a UK charity focused on reducing injuries and fatalities caused by electricity. According to the organization, cleaning an air fryer too soon or using the wrong method can create unnecessary safety risks. And if your idea of a quick cleanup involves dunking the entire appliance in the sink, it's time to rethink that plan.
Air fryer owners are warned to wait at least 30 minutes after use before cleaning their appliances to avoid potential safety hazards
Electrical Safety First is particularly clear about one thing: never immerse the fryer in water, and always wait at least 30 minutes to clean it after use. They explain that water and electrical components are a combination best avoided, and submerging the appliance could also damage it. Giving the fryer time to cool down before cleaning is a small step that could prevent a much bigger headache later.
Of course, waiting half an hour doesn't mean you can forget about safety once the timer is up. They have also shared several other precautions for air fryer owners. For example, they note that if the appliance starts making unusual noises or gives off a burning smell that isn't coming from the food, switch it off immediately and contact the retailer or manufacturer. It's also important to keep the power cord away from hot surfaces and unplug the fryer from the socket when it's not being used.
There are a few more rules worth keeping in mind. Electrical Safety First advises against pouring oil directly into the appliance and warns users to be careful around hot steam escaping from it. Also, avoid leaving an air fryer unattended while it's operating. And although cramming in a few extra nuggets might seem like an efficient use of space, overfilling the basket is a bad idea.
Check the manufacturer's instructions, but the recommended capacity is typically no more than two-thirds full. Keeping the handles turned away from the front of the cooker can also reduce the risk of accidentally knocking the appliance off the counter. So, how should you clean an air fryer without turning a simple kitchen chore into a safety concern?
The recommended cleaning method involves removing detachable parts and washing them with warm water, washing-up liquid, and a soft sponge
BBC Good Food recommends starting by unplugging the appliance and allowing it to cool completely. Once it's safe to handle, remove the detachable components so you can clean each part properly. The basket and other removable parts can generally be washed with warm water and washing-up liquid.
Next, use the soft side of a sponge or a cloth to avoid damaging the non-stick coating, paying particular attention to the corners and crevices where food residue tends to hide. This is because apparently, even a few crumbs can find a way to make themselves comfortable.
For stubborn food residue, they suggest that baking soda paste can help, while the main unit should be wiped by hand and kept away from water
For stubborn, burned-on food, BBC Good Food also suggests mixing baking soda with water to make a paste. Apply it to the affected areas and leave it for around 20 minutes before cleaning. If you're short on time, you can gently work on the residue with an old toothbrush instead. Once everything is clean, rinse the removable components and let them dry thoroughly.
The main unit, however, needs different treatment, however, never submerge it in water even during a deep clean. Instead, wipe it down by hand, taking care not to expose its electrical components to moisture.
Air fryers may be convenient, but keeping them in good condition takes a little more than scraping out the crumbs and calling it a day. Give yours time to cool, clean the removable parts carefully, and keep water away from the main unit. That extra half-hour might feel like an eternity when there's a dirty basket waiting in the kitchen, but it's a much better option than risking damage to an appliance you rely on for dinner.
Now, did you know you were supposed to wait 30 minutes before cleaning your air fryer, or is this news to you? Let us know in the comments!
The video below demonstrates how to properly clean an air fryer
Netizens suggested that the best way to keep an air fryer clean is to simply wash it after every use to prevent grease and food residue from building up
