Fire and rescue services across the UK have issued a stark safety warning to households about potentially hazardous cleaning methods for air fryers that are circulating online. The alert comes as ownership of the popular kitchen appliance soars, but knowledge of correct maintenance lags behind.
The Danger of Viral 'Hacks'
Social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram are awash with so-called 'genius' tips for cleaning air fryers with minimal effort. However, firefighters have stressed that some of these viral techniques could cause serious damage or even create a fire hazard. One particularly risky method involves pouring cleaning agents or solutions into the appliance's drawer and then running it on a heat cycle to 'cook off' grease.
Authorities have explicitly warned against this practice. Heating chemicals not designed for such use can produce toxic fumes, damage internal components, and significantly increase the risk of the appliance malfunctioning or overheating.
Official Safety Guidance You Should Follow
Instead of relying on unverified online shortcuts, firefighters and safety experts urge all air fryer owners to strictly adhere to the manufacturer's cleaning instructions. These guidelines, found in the user manual, are designed specifically for the model's materials and electrical systems.
Key safety advice includes consulting the manual before cleaning and avoiding abrasive substances or scouring pads. Steel wool or metallic pads must never be used on tempered glass lids, as they create tiny scratches that can weaken the glass over time, making it prone to shattering.
Long-Term Damage and User Concerns
The warning also highlights how improper cleaning can cause unseen damage that compromises safety. Applying too much pressure or dropping components can displace internal wiring, heating elements, or factory-fitted insulation. This damage can lead to equipment failure or dangerous overheating during subsequent use.
The issue is a common topic among users online. On a Reddit forum, one concerned owner of a Ninja air fryer asked for advice after noticing a 'white colouring' on the tray during cleaning, fearing the non-stick coating had been compromised. Replies were mixed, with one user joking that if scratched Teflon was lethal, "I'd be dead already," but the incident underscores widespread confusion over proper care.
For safe operation, the consensus from professionals is clear: remove loose food and grease after every use, clean thoroughly with recommended methods, and handle all parts with care. Prioritising the manufacturer's guidelines over a trending hack is the simplest way to ensure your air fryer remains a convenient kitchen helper, not a hidden hazard.
