Social media is brimming with clever cleaning tips, some of which can genuinely make life easier, while others can be misleading or even dangerous. One recent TikTok trend involves a hack for cleaning air fryers that has garnered significant attention. This method suggests filling the base of the machine with soapy water and turning it on for a few minutes, claiming it saves time and eliminates the need for manual scrubbing. Although this technique appears hassle-free, experts from the consumer advice site Which? warn that it could be hazardous. They caution that following this viral tip could potentially cause serious damage or even “start a house fire”. Instead, the expert recommended a safer and equally effective cleaning method using salted caramel.
The tech expert said, “Cleaning is sometimes boring and takes a bit of effort. Like salted caramel, little and often is best. Cleaning after every use might seem like a bit of a chore but it actually uses the least effort in the long run. Let the whole thing cool down, but don’t let it stand too long. This gives oils a chance to solidify, bonds to form with the basket and starches start dehydrating, getting locked into the nooks and crannies of the surfaces. Mop up any oil with a paper towel so it doesn’t end up clogging your pipes. Then dunk the basket in warm, soapy water. Don’t forget to check the inside of the appliance, as grease and food might be sticking to the walls. Use a damp cloth or a gentle sponge to wipe it away.”
“Every month or so, you should give your air fryer a deeper clean. Go at the heating element with an old toothbrush and a damp cloth. Don’t be too rough and don’t use too much water. Don’t use scourers or scrapers, you’re just going to break something. And don’t waste a dishwasher tablet on it either; washing up liquid will do just fine. That TikTok hack where you try to air fry half a jug of soapy water is a surefire shortcut to a broken air fryer,” the expert added.
Reacting to the video, a user wrote, “Finally the myth has been busted, great job.”
An individual shared, “The reason why I don’t have an air fryer is that it’s another thing to clean.”
“Disagree. Have been using the washing up liquid method for ages and not had an issue. Use it like a pre rinse to get any stubborn crap out,” a comment read.
One more added, “Just use the rubber inserts and wash them in the dishwasher after every use.”
Since Which? shared the air fryer cleaning hack on Instagram, the video has garnered over 86,000 views.
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