An expert has pointed out a mistake with air fryers that at least half of the people who own these kitchen appliances are guilty of, and which could have serious consequences.
This comes after a UK doctor warned that the non-stick coating on air fryers could pose a health risk if damaged or scratched, so make sure you clean it carefully and don’t use abrasive scrubbers.
And in addition to being careful about how you clean your deep fryer, you also need to consider where you place it in the kitchen.
Your air fryer could be a hazard in your home, depending on where it’s located in your kitchen. (Getty Stock)
If it’s off to the side and out in the open when you’re cooking your food, then that’s a good thing, and even better if it’s on a heat-resistant mat to protect your countertops from heat damage.
But for many of us, or maybe just me, it’s probably plugged in and stored under a cupboard to try and keep things tidy, and that could be a major problem.
It could pose a fire hazard since if it is hidden, your air fryer will not have enough room for proper air circulation.
If you now feel guilty about your deep fryer being hidden under your kitchen cabinets, then you’re not alone, as research by Toolstation revealed that more than half of people who own deep fryers actually use them directly under the cabinets. kitchen cabinets.
Cara Yates, Senior Category Manager for Kitchen at Toolstation, explained why this is a danger: “Air fryers and kettles, while useful, can pose a risk to your kitchen due to the heat they generate when in use.
“Specifically, deep fryers require ample space for proper air circulation and to prevent the appliance from overheating.
“Placing them under low cabinets can damage both the fryer and the cabinet, which can lead to discoloration, warping, and even a potential fire hazard.
If you feel guilty about where you put your air fryer in the kitchen, don’t worry: half of us store them incorrectly, too. (GettyStock)
“Air fryers should be placed on an open countertop, away from walls and corners, and ideally on a heat-resistant mat to protect the countertop.”
It’s not just the deep fryer that can be a hazard either, other kitchen appliances carry dangers as well.
The humble teapot can also be a hazard, as Cara added: “Teapots also pose a risk when placed directly under cupboards, as the steam they release can cause moisture damage to cupboards over time.
“This excessive moisture can lead to mold and structural damage, reducing the life of your kitchen cabinets.
“Again, to help prevent damage to upper cabinets, consider using the kettle on a kitchen surface that has a lot of space above it. If this is not an option, be sure to wipe away condensation to keep the bottom of the cabinet dry and prevent the possible appearance of mold.
