Air fryers are celebrated for whipping up speedy, energy-efficient, and healthier fare compared to traditional oil-frying methods, delivering scrumptious results. Yet, the challenge often arises when it’s time to clean the appliance, a task that many find daunting. A recent post on the Mrs Hinch Army Facebook page saw one user seeking advice on how to tackle stubborn grease in an air fryer she had been given.

Helen Shields shared her dilemma: “I was gifted a pretty decent air fryer, but the basket has a lot of burnt-on grease buildup. I have tried everything I can think of that I can do (without damaging the non-stick coating).” She detailed her efforts: “I’ve tried dish soap, bicarbonate of soda and white vinegar, Elbow Grease, a grill cleaning spray and a plastic scraper – which was the most effective but took hours and I seem to have reached a stalemate.”

Helen expressed her determination to resolve the issue: “I so desperately want to sort this out so I can use it – as an achievement if nothing else, and the £20 replacement basket cost sort of defeats the point of having been given it. Any magical ideas?”

Fellow group members chimed in with their suggestions in the comments, recommending a denture tablet for its quick action.

Sarah Howell advised: “A denture tablet with water, then put the air fryer on for 10 minutes and it should just wipe off.”

Vicky Owen also endorsed the method: “I found the best thing to clean mine was a denture tablet and a sink full of hot water. After I gave it a thorough deep clean they go in the dishwasher once a week.”

Catherine Woods said: “It’s so easy with a denture tablet and can be done in about 10 minutes. I promise it works. I used it for all my clients.”

Marie Wheeler also shared her tip: “I pop a denture tablet in, pour on boiling water and then turn the air fryer on for 10 minutes and works a treat in our Ninja.

“It may take a couple of times but it does work. I have 16-year-old twins who use ours and don’t wash after each use so this is as our saving grace.”

Delighted with the results, Helen responded: “I went with your suggestion first as it seemed the quickest and least effort. I didn’t have to scrub and all the grease vanished in 10 minutes. Thank you!”.

In an alternative cleaning approach, another Mrs Hinch devotee recommended soda crystals for the job. Lynne Arnott advised: “Soda crystals. Buy a bag for £2, and check the DriPak website for instructions – it’s great for air fryers.

“Make a thick paste with boiling water and leave to soak. You might have to do it a few times, turning it on its side and then round to the next side so the horizontal side has the paste lying flat.”

Echoing similar advice, Lynne Drewery added: “Try soaking in soda crystals and hot water. That’s what we used in a pub kitchen I worked in.”