Air fryers are a true gem of a kitchen gadget, with their benefits being discovered by more people each day.
They often provide a faster, healthier, and more energy-efficient method of preparing meals, so it’s no surprise that they’ve seen a surge in popularity recently.
These handy appliances have even convinced people to abandon their traditional ovens, a trend that becomes particularly noticeable during the festive season when there’s usually a lot of food to prepare.
So, whether you’re whipping up roast potatoes, pigs in blankets or even a Christmas pudding in your air fryer, there’s one thing you should not forget to do with your gadget before the holiday season.
This advice comes from Nancy Emery, a cleaning expert at Tap Warehouse, who has revealed the chores that households should not ignore in the lead-up to Christmas, reports the Express.
It may be one of the most forgotten household tasks, but before the Christmas chaos begins, it’s worth giving your air fryer a thorough clean – especially if you’re expecting dinner guests.
This is crucial to maintain its efficiency and prevent your food from tasting bad.
Air fryer baskets should be cleaned after every use, and this becomes even more important during Christmas when more meals are being prepared and the risk of cross-contamination increases.
How to clean your air fryer
Before you start cleaning, make sure to switch off your air fryer at the plug. Then, use a kitchen towel to wipe around the basket to avoid washing grease directly down the drain, which could cause a blockage.
Start by filling your kitchen sink with hot, soapy water and submerge the removable basket and tray for a good soak. Next, grab a soft dish sponge and give both parts a thorough wash, ensuring all grime is removed.
Once you’ve got them sparkling clean, rinse them off and place them on the dish rack to dry.
Lastly, take a fresh microfibre cloth, soak it in warm water, wring it out and wipe around the inside of the air fryer where the basket sits. Be sure to gently clean the heating element too, but only after confirming it’s completely cool.
Then your air fryer will be ready for use throughout the festive season.