Before cleaning the air fryer, it is a basic safety requirement to ensure that the device is completely cooled. The air fryer will reach extremely high temperatures during use. If it is not cooled down before cleaning, there may be a risk of burns. In addition, food residues and grease in high temperature state tend to solidify, making cleaning more difficult. If the device is still hot, cleaning tools such as cleaning cloths may be damaged, or even cause unnecessary damage to the device itself. Therefore, it is recommended to let the air fryer stand for a period of time after use until it is completely cooled before cleaning.
When cleaning the interior, the food basket and tray are the parts that need to be paid attention to. The food basket and tray of most manual air fryers are designed with a non-stick coating, which can effectively prevent food from sticking and facilitate cleaning. However, when cleaning these parts, users must avoid using sharp or hard cleaning tools such as steel wool and hard brushes, as these tools may damage the non-stick coating, causing the coating to fall off or scratch, thereby affecting its non-stick effect and service life. It is recommended to use a mild detergent with a soft cloth or sponge to wipe gently, which can effectively remove residual oil stains and food debris without damaging the coating.
The exterior of the air fryer also needs to be cleaned regularly, especially the parts that are in contact with the heat source more. After long-term use, the surface of the air fryer may be contaminated with oil smoke or food residue. If not cleaned in time, it may cause discoloration of the exterior surface and even affect the appearance of the device. When cleaning the exterior, it is recommended to wipe with a damp cloth and avoid excessive moisture contact with parts such as the electrical control panel, switches and sockets, because if the electronic components in these areas are eroded by moisture, it may cause short circuits or equipment failures. For stubborn stains on the exterior, a small amount of mild detergent can be used, but be sure to wipe off the residual detergent with a dry cloth to ensure the safety and appearance of the device.
Regular cleaning of the heating element and fan area should also not be ignored. The heating element is usually installed inside the device, and grease and residue from the food may adhere to its surface at high temperatures. If these residues accumulate for a long time, it may cause uneven heating, which in turn affects the cooking effect of the food and even increases the risk of fire. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that the surface of these parts is clean. Usually, wiping with a damp cloth is sufficient, but avoid dripping water directly into the electric heating element. If food grease splashes into these areas, it is recommended to wipe them gently with a dry or slightly damp cloth. Avoid using an overly damp cloth to prevent moisture from penetrating into the electrical parts.
In addition, the vents of the air fryer also need special attention to cleaning. The vents play a vital role in the cooking process of the air fryer, helping the device maintain good air circulation and ensuring that the hot air heats the food evenly. If the vents are blocked by grease or food residue, it will not only affect the efficiency of the device, but may also cause overheating or malfunction. Therefore, it is crucial to check and clean the vents regularly. You can use a soft brush or dry cloth to gently clean the vents to ensure that there is no debris or grease residue, so as to ensure the normal operation of the device and extend its service life.