Air fryers have become a kitchen must-have, loved for their ability to crisp food with little to no oil. But there’s one downside every air fryer owner knows: the greasy mess left behind in the basket. Not only does it look unpleasant, but leftover grease can also harbor bacteria if not cleaned properly. And while most people rely on soaking or scrubbing, those methods can be messy, time-consuming, and damaging to the non-stick surface. Luckily, there’s a much easier solution—and it only requires two simple ingredients you already have at home.
Why Traditional Cleaning Falls Short
Many air fryer users stick to the usual cleaning methods—soaking overnight in soapy water, scrubbing with a brush, or tossing the basket in the dishwasher. But here’s the problem:
- Soaking doesn’t always dissolve grease completely, leaving sticky residue.
- Scrubbing takes effort and can scratch the non-stick coating.
- Dishwashers often use harsh detergents that may shorten the basket’s lifespan.
Clearly, a gentler, more effective cleaning method is needed.
The Trick My Mama Swears By
My mama shared a cleaning hack that feels like pure magic. It’s quick, inexpensive, and saves the basket from unnecessary wear and tear. All it takes is a combination of baking soda and white vinegar—two pantry staples that, when paired, cut through grease effortlessly. She’s been using this trick for years, and her air fryer still looks as good as new.
Step-by-Step: How to Clean With Baking Soda & Vinegar
1. Let the air fryer basket cool completely after cooking.
2. Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda over the greasy areas.
3. Pour a small amount of white vinegar on top. The mixture will fizz immediately.
4. Leave it for 15 minutes to allow the reaction to break down the grease.
5. Wipe the basket clean with a soft sponge or cloth.
6. Rinse with warm water and allow it to air dry.
Why It Works
This hack is backed by science. Baking soda is a mild alkali that dissolves grease, while vinegar is acidic and boosts the reaction. Together, they create carbon dioxide bubbles that loosen stuck-on oil and grime, making it easy to wipe away without scrubbing.
Benefits of This Method
- Quick & effortless – Minimal scrubbing required.
- Budget-friendly – Uses inexpensive, everyday items.
- Protects non-stick coating – Gentle on surfaces.
- Eco-friendly – Avoids harsh chemical cleaners.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Don’t use too much vinegar—a little goes a long way.
- Don’t skip the 15-minute waiting period; it’s key to loosening grease.
- Avoid abrasive scourers that can damage the basket’s coating.
Real Success Stories
- Sarah J.: “I couldn’t believe how easy it was. My basket looks brand new!”
- Mark R.: “I used to dread cleaning my air fryer. Now it takes less than 10 minutes.”
- Linda K.: “This trick changed everything. I’ve shared it with all my friends.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use this method on other air fryer parts?
Yes—any dishwasher-safe part that collects grease.
Q: How often should I clean my basket this way?
Ideally, after each use, to prevent buildup.
Q: Can I use lemon juice instead of vinegar?
Yes, though vinegar is stronger, lemon juice works due to its acidity.
Final Thoughts
Cleaning a greasy air fryer basket doesn’t have to be a dreaded chore. With this simple baking soda and vinegar hack, you can tackle grease quickly and gently—no endless scrubbing required. It’s cost-effective, eco-friendly, and keeps your air fryer in top condition for years. Try it once, and you’ll never go back to your old cleaning routine.
