Air fryers have earned their place on kitchen counters by making everything from crispy fries to quick weeknight dinners easier to prepare. But while the appliance can save you time when cooking, experts say you shouldn’t be quite so eager when it comes to cleaning it. In fact, there’s one simple rule owners should follow before reaching for the sponge, and that is to wait at least 30 minutes after use.
The warning comes from Electrical Safety First, a UK charity focused on reducing injuries and fatalities caused by electricity. According to the organization, cleaning an air fryer too soon or using the wrong method can create unnecessary safety risks. And if your idea of a quick cleanup involves dunking the entire appliance in the sink, it’s time to rethink that plan.