Air fryers are a boon for cooking with minimal oil, but it's the cleaning that has to be handled carefully. Experts caution never to dip your air fryer in water, for it could turn out to be quite a perilous act and cause damage to the appliance. Instead, heed this safer advice on cleaning your air fryer.

Air fryers are a new addition to most kitchens. This kitchen appliance is for frying with very little or no oil, thus healthier for indulging in sumptuous meals. However, an important caution comes with cleaning these gadgets that every air fryer owner should know.

"Never immerse your air fryer in water." This is advice that comes from Electrical Safety First, a charity that focuses on preventing electrical accidents. The charity warns that immersing the entire appliance in water is highly dangerous. Well, of course, water and electricity don't blend well, often leading to dangerous situations. Soaking your air fryer can also lead to wreckage and, in some instances, even make it unsafe to use.

Why is it a problem? An air fryer has several electric components inside it. When they get wet, they are damaged. Water can cause short circuits, and in worst scenarios, electric shock. Additionally, an air fryer can malfunction if it's not properly cleaned.

Electrical Safety First suggests that you should never clean an air fryer immediately after use. Always wait for at least 30 minutes after use to clean the appliance. Allowing the item to cool down means it will be safer to handle and clean.

So, how do you safely clean your air fryer? Follow these simple steps:

1. Unplug the Air Fryer: First, ensure that the air fryer is always unplugged from the socket. This helps in ensuring safety throughout the cleaning process.
2. Let It Cool: Allow the air fryer to cool completely before touching it. This assures you of not getting burns and also eases cleaning.
3. Separate the Parts: Do away with all detachable parts of your air fryer, such as basket and tray. Very carefully detach these parts.
4. Clean the Detachable Parts: Wash these with warm water and a bit of dish soap. You can use a soft sponge or cloth to clean the non-stick surface and not scratch it. Ensure that each groove or area is well-cleaned without any sort of food residue left on it.
5. Deal with Stubborn Bits: For some stubborn bits of food, which can be really tough and burnt-on, make a paste of baking soda and water. Apply in such spots and leave it for 20 minutes. Gently scrub with an old toothbrush for faster results.
6. Rinse and Dry: Rinse well with water and fully dry the parts before putting them back together.
7. Gently Cleaning the Main Body: Never let water touch the main body of your air fryer. Instead, wipe it gently with a damp cloth. Make sure none of the water gets to the electrical parts.

Burning Smell or Strange Noises: If you hear these from your fryer, turn it off immediately. Reach out to the manufacturer to be safe.

• Do Not Add Oil Inside: Do not add oil inside the air fryer. It's not needed and could lead to problems.
• Watch Out for Hot Steam: After frying is complete, watch out for hot steam while opening the air fryer.
• Power Cords: Avoid having the power cords in contact with hot surfaces such that they melt or get spoilt.
• Turn Off When Not in Use: Whenever you aren't using the air fryer, be sure to turn it off at the socket.
• Don't Overfill: As a general rule, the fill level should not be over the maximum fill level stated in the manufacturer's instructions; normally, this would be about two-thirds full.
• Handle Placement: Turn the handles away from the edge of the counter to prevent accidentally knocking it off.

These simple cleaning and safety tips will ensure you use your air fryer with peace of mind, continue to keep your appliance in mint condition, and make sure your cooking remains safe. So remember, always clean your air fryer properly and avoid immersing it in water. Happy cooking!