This viral technique keeps the Airfryer clean without washing or detergent

Air fryers became the weeknight hero for good reason. They crisp fries, roast chicken, and reheat leftovers fast, using less oil and little effort. You toss in food, hit start, and dinner practically cooks itself. That convenience has a catch. Splatter builds up, crumbs hide in corners, and sticky residue bakes onto the basket and tray. The compact design makes reaching vents and grates tricky. And the nonstick coating needs gentle care, so heavy scrubbing feels risky. No surprise, then, that quick-fix cleaning hacks spread like wildfire online.

The trending method is simple: fill the basket with hot water, add a few drops of dish soap, then run the air fryer at about 175°C for five minutes. The idea is that sudsy steam loosens grease while the heat shakes off grime. Fans say it’s faster than scrubbing and leaves the basket looking fresh. Some even claim it deodorizes lingering smells. On paper, it sounds like a two-minute miracle. But there’s a catch. Many manuals warn against operating with liquids, and water can splatter toward the fan or heating element.

User feedback is mixed, leaning disappointing. The method lifts a light film of grease and some surface crumbs. It doesn’t tackle baked-on oil, caramelized sauces, or stubborn residue around the edges. Several users report the basket looks cleaner, yet the sticky feel remains. There’s also risk. Warm soapy water sloshing during a cycle can reach sensitive parts, potentially corroding components or voiding warranties. Kitchen writer Héloïse Wilson sums it up: it’s a superficial refresh that may stress the appliance, not a deep clean. In short, it’s more show than substance.

If you want real results, go classic and thorough. Unplug and cool completely. Disassemble the basket, tray, and accessories. Soak these parts in warm, soapy water for 10–15 minutes. Use a non-abrasive sponge or soft brush to lift residue without scratching the coating. For stuck spots, apply a baking soda paste, wait five minutes, then gently scrub. Rinse well and dry fully with a towel, then air-dry. Wipe the interior with a damp cloth; clean the heating element with a soft brush only. Reassemble when dry. Do a quick wipe after each use, and a deeper clean weekly if you cook often.