Air fryers remain the kitchen appliance of the moment, offering the promise of saving time and money when preparing meals.
However, to keep your precious air fryer in tip-top condition, Which? experts have warned against a viral “hack” that supposedly helps keep it clean. Air frying a jug of soapy water in the basket is not the recommended method and could pose a risk to you.
According to an expert in a video posted on Instagram, the water frying hack is the “dumbest” way to clean the appliance. The “hack” could cause a fire risk, putting both your home and the integrity of your air fryer at risk, the Daily Record reports.
Which’s expert explained that the correct method for cleaning an air fryer is “not as easy” as the viral hack, but sometimes cleaning requires a little effort. The best approach? Little and often.
Expert advises: “Cleaning after every use may seem like a chore, but it actually requires the least effort in the long run.”
Simply unplug your air fryer and allow the machine to cool down, but don’t delay it for too long as this could lead to oils solidifying, bonds forming with the basket and dehydration scratches. These can lodge themselves in all the hidden nooks and crannies.
Which? recommends blotting away excess oil with a paper towel to prevent drains from becoming blocked before immersing the basket in warm, soapy water. It’s also essential to inspect the inside of the air fryer for any food debris or grease that may have stuck to it.
Simply wipe away any residue with a damp cloth or sponge. Which? recommends that it’s also beneficial to thoroughly clean your air fryer every month – use a soft-bristled brush and damp cloth to scrub the heating element.
One item you definitely shouldn’t use in the cleaning process is an abrasive pad. Which? has warned: “Don’t use scouring pads or scrapers. You’ll just break something.”
They also mention that it is not necessary to use dishwasher tablets: “And don’t waste dishwasher tablets either. Dishwashing liquid will work just as well.”
One final tip from Which? for air fryer enthusiasts is to avoid certain internet fads: “And let me say it again. That TikTok hack where you try to air fry half a bowl of soapy water is a surefire shortcut to your air fryer breaking.”
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