How To Clean Baked On Grease From Air Fryer? In 4 Easy Steps

Keeping your air fryer clean is crucial not only for its performance but also for extending its lifespan.

Regular cleaning prevents the buildup of baked-on grease, ensuring that your air fryer operates efficiently and produces delicious, high-quality food.

When you use an air fryer, the hot air circulating inside the appliance cooks your food to crispy perfection. 

However, the release of oil and grease from the food can gradually accumulate on the surfaces, forming a stubborn, greasy layer. 

If this baked-on grease is left unattended for an extended period, it can lead to unpleasant odors and negatively impact the taste and texture of your cooked meals.

By incorporating a simple cleaning routine into your air fryer maintenance, you can prevent these issues and enjoy the full benefits of your appliance.

So in this article, we will guide you through the proper cleaning process to tackle baked-on grease and ensure your air fryer remains in excellent condition.

How To Clean Baked On Grease From Air Fryer?

To clean baked-on grease from an air fryer, create a paste using baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the greasy areas, then add vinegar (apple cider vinegar or regular vinegar mixed with water) and let it sit. Rinse with hot water, clean with dish soap and a sponge, and rinse again with clean water.

Also Read – What Is The 25 Rule For Air Fryers?

Preparation Before Cleaning The Air Fryer

Before you begin the cleaning process, it’s important to take some safety precautions to ensure a smooth and accident-free experience. 

Follow these steps to prepare your air fryer for effective cleaning:

1. Safety First: To avoid any electrical accidents or injuries, always start by switching off and unplugging your air fryer. This step is crucial to ensure your safety during the cleaning process.
2. Basket and Mesh Removal: For thorough cleaning, removing the basket and separating the mesh if possible is recommended. This allows better access to all the nooks and crannies where baked-on grease may have accumulated. By removing these components, you can clean them more effectively and ensure that no residue is left behind.

To remove the basket, gently slide it out of the air fryer. Some models may have a release button or handle to facilitate this process. Once the basket is removed, inspect it for any food debris or grease buildup.

Next, if your air fryer has a mesh or perforated tray, detach it from the basket. This mesh is often responsible for catching excess oil and grease during cooking, so it can become quite dirty over time. Removing the mesh allows you to clean it separately and ensure thorough cleanliness.

By removing the basket and separating the mesh, you create an ideal environment for comprehensive cleaning.

Check Our Recommended Air Fry On Amazon – Ninja AF101 Air Fryer

It enables you to reach all areas of your air fryer with ease, ensuring that no hidden grease or grime is left behind.

Also Read – Where To Put Air Fryer In Small Kitchen?

How To Clean Baked On Grease From Air Fryer With Baking Soda And Vinegar?

To clean baked-on grease from your air fryer effectively, you’ll need a few simple household items. Each item plays a specific role in the cleaning process and contributes to achieving optimal results.

What Will You Need?

1. Baking Soda
2. Apple Cider Vinegar (The regular vinegar will work fine but with some addition of water because it is too acidic)
3. Toothbrush
4. Dish Washing Liquid
5. Soft Sponge
6. Hot Water

Make sure to switch off and plug out the appliance before cleaning. Also, take out the basket and separate the mesh to clean it properly.

Step-By-Step Cleaning Process

Now that you’ve completed the pre-cleaning preparations, it’s time to dive into the actual cleaning process. 

Follow these detailed steps to clean the baked-on grease from your air fryer effectively.

Also Read – Best Heat-Resistant Mats For Air Fryer

1. Making The Baking Soda Paste

• In a small bowl, combine 2 teaspoons of baking soda with about 1-2 teaspoons of water.
• Mix the baking soda and water thoroughly until you achieve a thick paste-like consistency. The paste should be spreadable but not too runny.
• The baking soda paste acts as a gentle abrasive that helps remove the baked-on grease from the surfaces of your air fryer.
• When applying the paste, cover each section of the basket, including the bottom and sides. This ensures that all areas affected by the grease are treated.

2. Applying The Paste And Vinegar

• Using a toothbrush, apply the baking soda paste to the areas with baked-on grease. Focus on the problem spots and ensure that the paste covers the grease thoroughly.
• Gently rub the baking soda paste into the grease using circular motions. This action helps to break down and loosen the stubborn residue.
• Pay extra attention to difficult spots and corners, as grease can accumulate in these areas. Use the toothbrush to reach and clean these hard-to-reach spots effectively.

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3. Allowing The Mixture To Sit

• After applying the baking soda paste, it’s time to introduce the vinegar. Pour 1 cup of apple cider vinegar directly into the basket. Alternatively, if you’re using regular vinegar, mix 1 cup of vinegar with a half cup of water before pouring it into the basket.
• The vinegar helps to break down the grease and enhance the cleaning process. It reacts with the baking soda paste to create a bubbling action that helps lift away the baked-on residue.
• Allow the vinegar and baking soda mixture to sit for at least 15 minutes. For optimal results, consider leaving it overnight or for a minimum of 5-6 hours. This extended contact time allows the mixture to penetrate and dissolve the baked-on grease effectively.

4. Cleaning The Basket And Compartment

• After the vinegar and baking soda mixture has had sufficient time to work, it’s time to clean the basket and compartment.
• Start by rinsing the basket under running water to remove the excess paste and vinegar mixture. Use a soft sponge to wipe away any remaining residue.
• Fill a sink or basin with warm water and add a few drops of gentle dishwashing liquid. Submerge the basket and use the sponge to clean it thoroughly. Ensure that you scrub all surfaces, including the mesh and corners, to remove any traces of grease.
• Rinse the basket with clean water to remove any soap residue, and dry it thoroughly before reassembling it in your air fryer.

Also Read – Can I Put An Air Fryer On The Countertop?

How To Clean Grease From Air Fryer Basket?

To clean grease from an air fryer basket, follow these detailed steps:

1. Remove The Basket: Start by unplugging the air fryer and allowing it to cool down. Carefully remove the basket from the air fryer unit.
2. Prepare The Cleaning Solution: Fill a sink or basin with warm water and add a few drops of mild dish soap. Mix the soap into the water until it forms a soapy solution.
3. Submerge The Basket: Submerge the air fryer basket in soapy water. Ensure that the entire basket is fully immersed.
4. Scrub The Grease: Take a soft sponge or cloth and use it to scrub the greasy areas of the basket. Focus on the spots with the most buildup. Apply gentle pressure and scrub in circular motions to loosen and remove the grease.
5. Pay Attention To Mesh And Corners: Use your fingers or a soft-bristle toothbrush to clean the mesh and corners of the basket. These areas can accumulate grease and require extra attention to ensure thorough cleaning.
6. Rinse The Basket: Once you have scrubbed away the grease, rinse the basket under clean, running water. Ensure that all soap residue is removed from the basket.
7. Dry The Basket: Use a clean towel or allow the basket to air dry completely before reassembling it in the air fryer unit.

Remember to avoid using abrasive materials, harsh chemicals, or metal utensils when cleaning the basket, as these can damage the non-stick coating.

Also Read: How Do Air Fryers Work Without Oil? Can You Use Oil?

How To Clean Air Fryer Mesh Basket?

To clean an air fryer mesh basket, follow these steps:

1. Remove The Basket: Unplug the air fryer and allow it to cool down. Carefully remove the mesh basket from the air fryer unit.
2. Shake Off Loose Debris: Hold the mesh basket over a trash can and gently shake it to remove any loose debris or food particles.
3. Soak In Warm, Soapy Water: Fill a sink or basin with warm water and add a few drops of mild dish soap. Submerge the mesh basket in soapy water and let it soak for about 15-30 minutes. This will help loosen any stuck-on grease or residue.
4. Scrub With A Soft Brush: After soaking, use a soft-bristled brush, such as a toothbrush, to scrub the mesh gently. Pay special attention to the areas with stubborn residue. Be careful not to apply too much pressure to avoid damaging the mesh.
5. Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the mesh basket under running water to remove any soap residue. Ensure that all the soap is completely washed away.
6. Air Dry: Place the mesh basket on a clean towel or drying rack to air dry completely. Make sure it is completely dry before reassembling it in the air fryer.

Also Read – How To Preheat An Air Fryer?

Conclusion

Maintaining a clean air fryer is essential for optimal performance, hygiene, and food quality. By following the cleaning steps outlined in this guide, you can effectively remove baked-on grease and ensure that your air fryer remains in excellent condition.

Regular cleaning prevents the buildup of grease, which can negatively impact the taste and texture of your cooked meals. It also eliminates any lingering odors and keeps your air fryer looking spotless. 

Additionally, a clean air fryer promotes a hygienic cooking environment, reducing the risk of bacterial growth and potential health hazards.

By incorporating the pre-cleaning preparations, gathering the necessary materials, and following the detailed cleaning process, you’ll be able to restore your air fryer to its pristine condition. 

The combination of baking soda, vinegar, a toothbrush, dishwashing liquid, a soft sponge, and hot water provides effective cleaning power, tackling even the most stubborn baked-on grease.

Remember, patience and thoroughness are key during the cleaning process. Take your time to cover each section of the basket, apply the paste, and allow the mixture to sit for the recommended time. 

Use gentle cleaning techniques and avoid harsh abrasives or metal utensils that could damage the non-stick coating.

Check Our Recommended Air Fry On Amazon – Ninja AF101 Air Fryer

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