The complete guide to cleaning your air fryer

Arguably the most exciting invention for amateur chefs and nutrition-conscious foodies in recent years, air fryers are becoming ubiquitous in kitchens worldwide. Air fryers are ultra-efficient, easy to use and make some of our favourite foods healthier - what more could you ask for? But as with any innovative kitchen appliance, it requires investing a bit of time into learning how to best care for the new gadget, ensuring that it operates efficiently for years to come. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through our top tips and trends on how to effectively clean and maintain your air fryer.
 

Why it's important to clean your air fryer

Air fryers quickly became popular thanks to their incredible ability to "fry" foods with much less oil than traditional methods. Not only can they produce homemade (and healthier!) fish and chips, onion rings and crispy bacon, air fryers can also be used to produce mouth-watering donuts, apple crumble and peach turnovers. Cleaning your air fryer thoroughly will prevent your desserts from tasting like fish and vice versa! There are many upsides to learning how to clean your air fryer like a pro:

• Odour prevention: Cleaning eliminates any lingering smells from previous cooking sessions, keeping your dish tasty and your kitchen fresh.
• Health and safety: Removing grease and food residues prevents harmful bacteria build-up, ensuring the food you cook is safe to eat.
• Optimal performance: A perfectly clean air fryer works more efficiently, ensuring even cooking and consistent results.
• Longevity: Regular maintenance extends the life of your appliance, saving you money in the long run.
   

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Air Fryer

Although it might seem obvious, the first step is to make sure your air fryer is unplugged and cooled down completely. Then simply follow our easy, step-by-step air fryer cleaning method:

• Divide and conquer: Carefully disassemble the removable parts of your air fryer, which typically includes the basket, tray and/or pan. Shake any crumbs off the parts, then make the entire cleaning process easier by wiping off any oil or sticky marinades off with a paper towel. Always double check your user manual for specifics to your particular model.
• Getting down to business: If much of the residue has come off, just give the parts and basket a quick wash with soapy, warm water and a non-abrasive sponge (to avoid scratching the non-stick coating), then rinse. However, stubborn grime may require a good soak. In this case, fill the basket with the parts, fill it with very hot water and washing up liquid, then let soak for 30-60 minutes. Give it another gentle scrub, then dry thoroughly before putting the air fryer back together for storage.
• Automate it: Some air fryers have removable parts that are dishwasher-safe, like the bucket, basket and plates of the Haier range of air fryers , automating some of the cleaning. However, always verify your air fryer's manual first and don't forget to place the parts in the top rack to avoid damage.
• Last but not least: Wipe down the main unit with a damp, soft cloth, making sure no water gets into the electrical components. Never submerge the main unit in water! For tough spots, use a soft-bristled toothbrush, then buff to a gleam with a soft cloth. Over time the heating element may accumulate grease and food particles. To clean it, turn the air fryer upside down and use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe it down. Make sure it's completely dry before using the air fryer again.
   

Trends and tips for air fryer cleaning

To avoid accidentally damaging your air fryer, below you'll find our pro tips addressing common cleaning mistakes, as well as the latest air fryer cleaning trends. Don't forget, regular maintenance can keep your air fryer in top condition, guaranteeing the tastiest results while ensuring its longevity!

• Prevent overcrowding: Don't overload the air fryer basket, as its lead to uneven cooking and more food particles sticking to the basket. Also make sure to rotate or shake the food during cooking to make cleaning easier. The award-winning Haier I-Master Series 5 Multi-Air Fryer XXL has a unique LED-lit double-glass window, enabling you to keep an eye on the cooking process.

• Avoiding damage: Aerosol cooking sprays are popular, but the ingredients can damage the non-stick coating of your air fryer. Instead use a pump spray bottle or apply oil with a cooking brush. Abrasive materials like metal utensils, scouring pads or harsh cleaning agents will also scratch and damage the non-stick coating.

• Regular deep cleaning: Perform a deep clean every few months. This involves a more thorough cleaning of the heating element, fan and other hard-to-reach areas.

• Keep the user manual handy: Always refer to the user manual for the use and specific cleaning instructions related to your air fryer model. Following the manufacturer’s recommendations is primordial to not void the warranty.

• Eco-friendly cleaning: More people are turning to eco-friendly cleaning products that are free from harsh chemicals, which are not only better for the environment, but can also be safer for your air fryer.

• Air fryer cleaning kits: Specialised cleaning kits include non-abrasive sponges, brushes and cleaning solutions, which is a nice-to-have, but you probably have everything you need at home already.

• Air fryer liners: These are a convenient way to reduce clean up after air fryer use. Disposable air fryer liners can be tossed away after use, but the washable liners are more environmentally friendly, plus more economical to boot.

By regularly cleaning your air fryer carefully and thoroughly, you will enjoy consistently delicious, healthy meals while simultaneously optimizing its performance and increasing its longevity. Keep these tips handy and make cleaning a regular part of your air fryer routine.

To learn more about Haier's compact air fryer and award-winning XXL air fryer, the Haier Price Match Promise, fast free delivery and free returns, make sure to have a look at the Haier website! For a comprehensive look at all their models, check out Haier's full collection of air fryers.