How (and Why) You Should Clean Your Air Fryer - Every Time
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We get it - after a delicious dinner of crispy chips or golden chicken wings, the last thing you want to do is scrub down your air fryer. But here’s the deal: giving your air fryer a quick clean after each use isn’t just about hygiene - it’s about making sure your favourite kitchen gadget stays in top shape for the long run.
Whether you're cooking for one with the Chefman TurboFry 3.5L Air Fryer Oven or batch-cooking dinners with the Homcom 4.5L Air Fryer with Rapid Air Circulation, a clean air fryer = better flavour, safer cooking, and longer-lasting performance.
Let’s dive into how to clean your air fryer the right way - and why it matters.
So... Do You Really Need to Clean It After Every Use?
In short: yes. Grease, crumbs, and leftover food bits can build up fast inside your air fryer. Not only can that cause smoke and weird smells next time you cook, but it can actually affect how evenly your food cooks.
Think of it this way: would you reuse a frying pan from last night’s dinner without washing it? Exactly.
Plus, regularly cleaning your air fryer:
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Keeps your food tasting fresh (no stale odours or burnt residue)
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Helps prevent fire risks
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Keeps your appliance working efficiently
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Prolongs the non-stick coating on baskets and trays
What You'll Need
Nothing fancy here - you probably have everything already:
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Warm water
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Mild dish soap
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A non-abrasive sponge or soft brush
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A microfibre cloth or paper towels
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Baking soda (for stubborn grease)
Step-by-Step: How to Clean Your Air Fryer
1. Unplug and Let It Cool
First things first - always unplug your air fryer and give it time to cool. This makes cleaning safer and prevents heat damage to any parts.
2. Remove the Basket and Tray
Take out the basket and tray (or crisper plate) and give them a soak in warm, soapy water. For example, the Homcom 4.5L Air Fryer comes with a non-stick basket that’s super easy to wipe clean. If your model is dishwasher-safe (like the Chefman TurboFry 3.5L), go ahead and pop those parts in the machine.
Tip: If food is really stuck on, soak the parts for 10–15 minutes before scrubbing gently with a soft sponge.
3. Wipe Down the Interior
Use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe the inside walls of the air fryer. You don’t need a ton of soap - just enough to remove any residue. Never use harsh chemicals or metal scouring pads - these can scratch and damage the coating.
4. Clean the Heating Element
This is the part most people forget! Flip your air fryer upside down and gently clean the heating element with a soft brush or damp cloth. If there’s built-up grease, a baking soda paste works wonders.
5. Clean the Exterior
Give the outside of your air fryer a quick wipe down, especially around the buttons and controls. The Chefman TurboFry has simple dials that can collect grease, so keeping those clean will make the whole unit look brand new.
6. Dry Everything Thoroughly
Once all the parts are clean, dry them completely before putting them back. You don’t want moisture hanging around in the unit - it could damage internal components or affect your next cook.
A Quick Word on These Two Great Air Fryers
🖤 Homcom 4.5L Air Fryer with Rapid Air Circulation
Perfect for families or big appetites, this spacious 4.5L model offers digital controls and even cooking thanks to its rapid air technology. The non-stick basket is a dream to clean - whether you’re doing a quick rinse or a deeper clean after a busy weeknight dinner.
💡 Chefman TurboFry 3.5L Air Fryer Oven
Compact, reliable, and easy to use, the TurboFry is ideal for smaller kitchens or anyone short on counter space. It’s lightweight, easy to store, and super simple to take apart and clean. If you’re new to air frying, this is a great place to start.
Final Thoughts
Taking just a few minutes to clean your air fryer after each use will keep your meals tasty, your appliance safe, and your clean-up stress-free in the long run.
So the next time you finish a batch of fries or crispy chicken, resist the temptation to walk away - give your air fryer a quick clean. Your future self (and your next meal) will thank you.
Got questions about air fryer maintenance or not sure which model is right for you? Drop us a message or check out our full range of kitchen appliances - we’re always here to help you cook smarter, cleaner, and better.