Unexpected Cleaning Power from a Common Sauce

Air fryers have quickly become an essential appliance in modern kitchens, loved for their ability to cook food quickly, use minimal oil, and preserve the delicious flavor and crispiness of each dish. However, one step that many users tend to overlook is cleaning the air fryer after every use. Over time, grease and food residue can build up, especially on the glass door and frying basket, making the device harder to clean and even affecting its performance.

A surprising cleaning hack with ketchup

Recently, a surprisingly simple yet effective cleaning tip has gone viral: using ketchup to clean your air fryer. Yes, the same condiment that accompanies fries and burgers can also dissolve grease and grime. The secret lies in its ingredients — citric acid from tomatoes and acetic acid from vinegar — both known for their mild but effective degreasing properties. Together, they help break down oil and food residue without damaging the appliance’s surface or leaving harmful chemical traces.

How to do it

To clean the air fryer’s glass window, spread a thin layer of ketchup evenly over the greasy surface and sprinkle a bit of salt on top. Let the mixture sit for about 20 minutes. During this time, the natural acids will soften the sticky residue. Then, gently wipe the surface with a soft cloth or paper towel, followed by a damp wipe to remove any remaining traces. The result is a shiny, streak-free surface with minimal effort.

For the frying basket or metal rack, apply ketchup directly to the dirty areas. Use a soft brush or an old toothbrush to scrub lightly, then rinse thoroughly with warm water. The ketchup helps loosen burnt-on oil, making it much easier to wash away compared to traditional dish soap alone.

No need for expensive brands

You don’t have to buy premium brands like Heinz for this cleaning trick to work. Any ketchup that contains vinegar and tomato concentrate will do the job. While Heinz ketchup retails for around 99p (roughly 30,000 VND) on some UK online stores, supermarkets like Tesco or M&S also offer affordable alternatives priced from just £1. The effectiveness comes from the natural acids — not the brand name.

Expert recommendations

Kitchen cleaning experts emphasize that it’s best to clean your air fryer after every use. Regular maintenance prevents oil and food buildup, ensuring better-tasting meals, extending the appliance’s lifespan, and reducing the risk of unpleasant odors. It also helps the heating element work more efficiently, saving energy in the long run.

Extra tip for deep cleaning

If your air fryer has stubborn burnt stains or sticky residue that ketchup alone can’t remove, try mixing ketchup with a bit of baking soda to form a paste. Apply it to the affected area, let it rest for 15–20 minutes, then scrub gently. The mild abrasiveness of baking soda enhances the cleaning power while remaining safe for non-stick surfaces.

In short: next time your air fryer looks greasy and dull, don’t rush to buy chemical cleaners — just reach for that bottle of ketchup in your fridge. This simple trick combines affordability, safety, and surprising effectiveness, proving once again that sometimes the best household solutions are hiding in plain sight.