Air fryers have increasingly become an indispensable helper in modern kitchens thanks to their convenience and time-saving benefits. However, one issue that continues to frustrate many home cooks is cleaning the fryer basket—a component that frequently becomes coated with stubborn, greasy residue. If not cleaned properly, the non-stick coating can easily be damaged, reducing the appliance’s lifespan and affecting the quality and safety of food prepared in it.

Recently, a post in the popular Facebook group Mrs Hinch Cleaning Tips—a UK-based community dedicated to household cleaning advice—sparked widespread discussion. One member asked for help, writing: “Does anyone know the best way to clean the metal basket of a Ninja air fryer? I’m older and have a disability, so I can’t use much force to scrub.”

The question quickly attracted a flood of responses. Many members suggested abandoning heavy scrubbing altogether and instead using Elbow Grease All-Purpose Degreaser, an inexpensive but highly effective cleaning spray widely available in the UK. According to users, the product breaks down oil and grime with minimal effort, making it especially helpful for people with limited strength or mobility.

Sarah Wicks shared her experience, saying: “When I first moved to the UK, I thought ‘elbow grease’ just meant hard work. Later I discovered it was actually a product—and it’s brilliant for cleaning air fryers.” Another user, Patricia Skelton, echoed the sentiment: “We struggled for ages to remove grease stuck to the sides of the basket. After using Elbow Grease, it just melted away.”

Several members emphasized that the spray leaves no oily film behind, a common problem when washing fryer baskets by hand. Carrie Rapson commented: “Spray it on, leave it for five minutes, then wipe it off. The basket looks shiny and brand new.”

Despite the enthusiasm for modern cleaning products, some users remain loyal to traditional methods. Shirley Sutcliffe recommended soaking the basket in boiling water mixed with dish soap, then scrubbing lightly while the water is still hot. “It doesn’t require much effort at all,” she explained. Similarly, Carol Jones noted that washing the basket immediately after each use with hot water and dishwashing liquid is often sufficient to keep grease from building up.

Experts agree that regardless of the method used, cleaning an air fryer promptly after cooking is key. Allowing grease to accumulate over time not only makes cleaning more difficult but can also compromise food hygiene and shorten the appliance’s lifespan. Regular, gentle maintenance helps preserve the non-stick coating and ensures the air fryer continues to perform safely and effectively for years to come.