How to Clean Air Fryer and Rice Cooker the Right Way: Step-by-Step Cleaning Methods for Every Situation

Keeping your kitchen appliances clean not only ensures better-tasting food but also extends the life of your devices. Air fryers and rice cookers are convenient tools, but they can quickly accumulate grease, food particles, and even mold if not cleaned properly. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to clean air fryer baskets and rice cookers using various methods, tackling everything from baking soda to vinegar, and even spoiled rice.

1. How to Clean Air Fryer Basket with Baking Soda?

Baking soda is an effective, natural cleaner that helps break down stubborn grease and grime in your air fryer basket. Here’s how to do it:

Steps:

1. Unplug the air fryer and let it cool completely.
2. Remove the basket and tray.
3. Create a paste using 2 tablespoons of baking soda and 1–2 tablespoons of water.
4. Apply the paste to greasy or stuck-on areas using a soft sponge.
5. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes to loosen stubborn residues.
6. Gently scrub in circular motions, focusing on corners and crevices.
7. Rinse thoroughly with warm water and dry with a clean cloth.

Tip: Avoid using metal scrubbers to prevent damaging the nonstick coating.

2. How to Clean Air Fryer Basket with Dishwasher Tablet

Dishwasher tablets are surprisingly effective at removing baked-on grease from air fryer baskets.

Steps:

1. Fill your sink with hot water.
2. Dissolve one dishwasher tablet in the water.
3. Submerge the air fryer basket and let it soak for 30–60 minutes.
4. After soaking, use a soft sponge or brush to scrub away any remaining residue.
5. Rinse thoroughly with warm water and dry completely.

Tip: Use a tablet that doesn’t contain bleach to protect the coating of your basket.

3. How to Clean Rice Cooker with Mold

Mold can develop in rice cookers if moisture remains trapped inside. Cleaning it quickly is important for food safety.

Steps:

1. Unplug the rice cooker and remove the inner pot, lid, and accessories.
2. Mix 1 cup of water with 2 tablespoons of vinegar.
3. Wipe down all surfaces affected by mold using a soft cloth soaked in the solution.
4. For stubborn mold inside the pot, soak it in warm water with a few drops of dish soap for 15–20 minutes.
5. Rinse thoroughly and allow to air dry completely before reassembling.

Tip: Always check the lid and steam vent for hidden mold spots.

4. How to Clean Rice Cooker with Vinegar

Vinegar is excellent for removing odors, mineral deposits, and light stains in your rice cooker.

Steps:

1. Mix 1 cup of water and 1 cup of white vinegar.
2. Pour the solution into the rice cooker’s inner pot.
3. Turn on the rice cooker and allow it to run a normal cooking cycle.
4. Once the cycle ends, discard the vinegar solution.
5. Rinse the pot thoroughly with warm water and dry.

Tip: This method also helps maintain a fresh smell inside your rice cooker.

5. How to Clean Rice Cooker Valve

The steam valve can get clogged with rice particles or starch residue, reducing its effectiveness.

Steps:

1. Remove the valve according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Soak it in warm water with a small amount of dish soap for 5–10 minutes.
3. Use a soft brush or toothpick to remove any stubborn debris.
4. Rinse thoroughly and dry before reattaching.

Tip: Cleaning the valve regularly prevents overflow and ensures even cooking.

6. How to Clean Rice Cooker with Spoiled Rice

Sometimes rice can spoil if left inside the cooker too long. Proper cleaning is crucial to prevent lingering odors.

Steps:

1. Remove the spoiled rice carefully to avoid spreading bacteria.
2. Wash the inner pot with warm soapy water.
3. Rinse thoroughly and wipe dry.
4. For lingering odors, wipe the pot and inner lid with a mixture of water and vinegar or baking soda paste.
5. Allow all components to air dry completely before next use.

Tip: Never leave leftover rice in the cooker for more than a few hours to avoid spoilage.

Final Tips and Maintenance Advice

• Always unplug appliances before cleaning.
• Avoid abrasive scrubbers on nonstick surfaces.
• Dry thoroughly before reassembling to prevent mold.
• Regular maintenance, like cleaning after each use, reduces the need for deep cleaning.
• Using natural cleaners like baking soda or vinegar is safe and effective.

Proper care will ensure that your air fryer and rice cooker last longer, perform better, and produce food that’s both safe and delicious.