As the popularity of air fryers continues to soar among Australian seniors looking for a healthier alternative to traditional frying, it's important to discuss not just the culinary benefits but also the best practices for maintaining these nifty kitchen gadgets. One such practice that has been circulating on the internet is the 'quick clean' hack, which suggests filling the air fryer basket with soapy water, turning the machine on, and letting it do the cleaning work for you. However, our friends at the Good Housekeeping Institute Kitchen Appliances & Innovation Lab have tested this method and found it to be not only ineffective but potentially hazardous.


Why Heating Water in Your Air Fryer Isn't a Good Idea

When the experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute tried this cleaning hack, they discovered that heating water in the air fryer for the suggested three minutes only warmed the water to a tepid 22.2°C, which is hardly enough to loosen any buildup or grime. Extending the heating time to ten minutes did raise the temperature to over 54.4°C, but this posed a new risk: the danger of carrying a hot, potentially slippery basket to the sink without spilling and causing burns.


Moreover, the design of some air fryer baskets means they could detach and fall out during this process, increasing the risk of splashing and injury. And let's not forget the fundamental rule of electronics: water and electricity are a perilous mix. With exposed electrical elements in air fryers, any splashes or spills could not only harm you but also damage your appliance beyond repair.


The Safe Way to Clean Your Air Fryer

Cleaning your air fryer is essential after each use to prevent the accumulation of food particles and grease, which can lead to unpleasant odours or even smoke when the machine heats up. But fear not, cleaning your air fryer properly is a breeze if you follow these steps:

1. Always start by turning off and unplugging the air fryer. Let it cool down completely before attempting to clean it.

2. If the basket is dishwasher-safe, you can place the drawer and basket or tray upside down in the dishwasher, preferably on the top rack to minimise wear on the nonstick coating. This method is convenient and simplifies the cleaning process.


3. For those without a dishwasher or preferring a manual clean, wash the removable parts in warm soapy water. Use a soft, non-abrasive brush to gently scrub away any stubborn bits without scratching the nonstick surface. If you encounter a particularly grimy basket, let it soak in warm water to help loosen the grime before scrubbing. Rinse thoroughly and dry.

4. To clean the air fryer's exterior, interior bottom, and the heating element if necessary, use a damp cloth or paper towel. Once everything is clean and dry, reassemble the air fryer.


Minimising Mess During Cooking

While cleaning is inevitable, there are ways to reduce the mess made during cooking:

• Line the bottom of the basket with parchment paper to catch any drips or crumbs.
• Use only a small amount of oil to prevent excess grease buildup, as air fryers rely on concentrated heat and a powerful fan to crisp food, not oil.
• Avoid overfilling the air fryer basket to prevent splatters on the heating element. Always check your air fryer's user manual for the maximum food capacity recommended for your model.

Remember, the key to enjoying your air fryer for years to come is proper maintenance and cleaning. By avoiding risky shortcuts and sticking to the recommended cleaning methods, you'll ensure your air fryer remains a safe and reliable tool in your culinary arsenal.
We'd love to hear from you, our savvy Senior Discount Club members! Have you tried any air fryer cleaning hacks, or do you have any tips for keeping your air fryer in tip-top shape? Share your experiences in the comments below, and let's help each other make the most of our kitchen gadgets!