Air fryers are like that one friend who’s amazing to be around but messy as heck. They make crispy fries, juicy chicken, and golden snacks with barely any oil. But behind that magic? Grease. Lots of it. If you’ve ever opened your air fryer basket and thought, “Wow… when did this happen?”—you’re not alone.
Cleaning an air fryer isn’t exactly fun. Food splatters stick. Oil turns into stubborn grime. And that burnt smell? Yeah, that’s old grease waving hello. Many people put off cleaning because they think it’ll take forever or require fancy products. Spoiler alert: it doesn’t.
One surprisingly effective method that’s been blowing up online is using a dishwasher tablet. Sounds odd, right? But sometimes the weirdest hacks work like a charm. In this guide, we’ll break down how to clean my air fryer with a dishwasher tablet, step by step, safely, and without stress.
Let’s get into it.
What Is a Dishwasher Tablet?
Ingredients and How They Work
A dishwasher tablet is basically a tiny cleaning superhero packed into a solid block. It usually contains degreasers, enzymes, and oxygen-based cleaners. Translation? It’s designed to destroy dried-on food and greasy messes without much effort.
Degreasing Power Explained Simply
Think of grease as a stubborn sticker. Water alone won’t remove it. Dishwasher tablets break down grease at a molecular level, loosening it so it can be wiped away easily. That’s why they work so well on air fryer baskets that look like they’ve been through a food war.
Why Use a Dishwasher Tablet to Clean an Air Fryer
The Science Behind the Hack
Air fryer grease is similar to baked-on food in ovens and pans. Dishwasher tablets are made for exactly that kind of mess. When dissolved in hot water, they activate and start breaking down grime fast—no scrubbing marathon required.
Why This Method Went Viral
Simple. Cheap. Satisfying. Watching grease melt away feels like ASMR for clean freaks. Plus, most people already have dishwasher tablets at home, making this method super accessible.
Is It Safe to Clean an Air Fryer with a Dishwasher Tablet?
What You Should Know Before You Start
Yes, it’s safe—if you do it right. Dishwasher tablets are powerful, so they should never be used dry or directly on heating elements. Always dilute them in warm water and focus on removable parts.
Materials and Coatings to Be Careful With
Most air fryer baskets have a non-stick coating. Avoid aggressive scrubbing tools like steel wool. Gentle sponges are your best friend here.
Things You Need Before Cleaning
Supplies Checklist
- 1 dishwasher tablet
- Hot (not boiling) water
- A soft sponge or cloth
- A toothbrush for corners
- Dry towel
What to Avoid Mixing Together
Never mix dishwasher tablets with vinegar or bleach. Stick to water only. Simple is safer and more effective.
Step-by-Step Guide: Clean My Air Fryer with a Dishwasher Tablet
Cleaning the Basket
Remove the basket and place it in your sink. Drop in one dishwasher tablet. Fill with hot water until the basket is fully submerged. Let it soak for 30–60 minutes. You’ll literally see grease lifting off.
After soaking, gently scrub with a sponge. Rinse thoroughly and dry.
Cleaning the Drawer
Repeat the same process for the drawer. These parts usually collect oil drips, so don’t skip this step.
Cleaning the Heating Area Safely
Never pour water directly into the air fryer unit. Instead, unplug it, flip it upside down, and gently wipe the heating area with a damp cloth. No tablet here—just caution.
How Long Does the Cleaning Process Take?
Active vs Passive Cleaning Time
- Soaking time: 30–60 minutes
- Scrubbing and rinsing: 10 minutes
Total effort? Minimal. Results? Maximum.
Before and After Results
What Kind of Dirt This Method Removes Best
This method is amazing for:
- Baked-on grease
- Burnt food residue
- Lingering odors
Light stains disappear. Heavy grime loosens dramatically.
Pros and Cons of Using Dishwasher Tablets
Benefits
- Extremely effective
- Budget-friendly
- Little scrubbing needed
Drawbacks
- Not ideal for frequent use
- Must rinse thoroughly
Dishwasher Tablet vs Other Cleaning Methods
Baking Soda and Vinegar
Good for light cleaning, but struggles with heavy grease. Also more elbow grease required.
Store-Bought Degreasers
Effective but expensive and often full of harsh chemicals.
How Often Should You Deep Clean Your Air Fryer?
Based on Usage Frequency
- Daily use: once a week
- Occasional use: every 2–3 weeks
Regular light cleaning helps avoid deep-clean drama later.
Tips to Keep Your Air Fryer Clean Longer
Daily Habits That Make a Difference
- Wipe after every use
- Use parchment liners
- Don’t overload with oily food
Common Myths About Air Fryer Cleaning
What Actually Works and What Doesn’t
Myth: “Heat burns grease away.”
Truth: It bakes it on harder.
Myth: “Soap ruins non-stick.”
Truth: Gentle soap is totally fine.
Environmental and Cost Considerations
Is This Method Budget-Friendly?
Absolutely. One tablet costs very little and replaces multiple cleaning products. Less waste, more shine.
Final Thoughts
Is This Hack Worth Trying?
If your air fryer looks tired, greasy, and smells a bit questionable, this hack is 100% worth it. Cleaning your air fryer with a dishwasher tablet is simple, effective, and oddly satisfying. It’s one of those “why didn’t I try this sooner?” moments.
Just remember: use it occasionally, follow safety steps, and rinse well. Your air fryer will thank you with better-tasting food and longer life.
FAQs
1. Can I use any dishwasher tablet?
Yes, most standard tablets work well. Avoid gel pods if possible.
2. Will this damage the non-stick coating?
No, as long as you soak and use a soft sponge.
3. Can I do this every week?
Occasionally is best. Weekly deep cleaning isn’t necessary.
4. Does this remove bad smells?
Yes, it helps eliminate burnt grease odors.
5. Can I clean the whole air fryer this way?
Only removable parts. Never soak the main unit.
