Best Way to Clean Electric Deep Fryer at Home Easily
Love crispy fries, golden fried chicken, or fresh donuts? Then you know how fast an electric deep fryer can get greasy. Old oil and food bits make it look messy. They can also change the taste of your food and shorten the fryer’s life.
The good news? Cleaning it is easier than you think. With the right tools, a few minutes, and these steps, you can make your fryer look like new. You’ll also keep your food tasting fresh and safe to eat.
In this guide, I’ll show you the best way to clean an electric deep fryer at home quick, safe, and damage-free.
Why Cleaning Your Electric Deep Fryer Matters
A clean fryer isn’t just about looks. Here’s why it’s important:
- Better taste – Old oil makes food taste stale or burnt.
- Longer life – Grease can damage heating parts and coatings.
- Safety – Grease build-up can cause smoke or even fires.
- Faster heating – Clean fryers cook evenly and heat quicker.
Safety Precautions Before You Start
Before you start scrubbing, follow these safety tips:
- Unplug the fryer – Never clean it while plugged in.
- Let it cool – Hot oil can burn. Wait until it’s cool to touch.
- Dispose of oil safely – Pour it into a sealed container. Recycle if possible. Never pour oil down the sink.
- Wear gloves – Protect your hands from grease and soap.
- Keep water away from controls – Don’t splash the power cord or panel.
Items You’ll Need
Get these ready before cleaning:
- Soft sponge or microfiber cloth
- Plastic scraper or spatula (non-metal)
- Degreasing dish soap
- Baking soda
- White vinegar (optional)
- Paper towels or a kitchen towel
- Large sink or bucket for soaking parts
Step-by-Step: Best Way to Clean an Electric Deep Fryer
Step 1: Remove and Dispose of Old Oil
When the fryer is cool, remove the basket and pour the oil into a container. If reusing, strain it through a fine mesh or cheesecloth. If the oil smells bad or looks dark, throw it away.
Step 2: Disassemble Removable Parts
Take out the basket, lid, and oil pan (if detachable). Wash them in warm, soapy water. Avoid metal scrubbers they can scratch.
Step 3: Wipe Interior While Grease is Soft
Use paper towels to soak up grease before washing. This makes cleaning faster and keeps grease out of your drain.
Step 4: Clean Heating Element (If Detachable)
If the heating element comes out, wipe it with a damp cloth. If not, gently clean it with a sponge and soapy water. Never soak the unit.
Step 5: Wash the Fryer Bowl
Fill the bowl with hot water and dish soap. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes. Scrub with a sponge or cloth.
Step 6: Remove Stubborn Grease
Make a paste of baking soda and water. Spread it on greasy spots. Wait 10 minutes, then wipe clean.
Step 7: Clean the Exterior
Wipe the outside with a damp cloth and mild soap. For sticky grease, mix vinegar and water.
Step 8: Dry Thoroughly
Dry all parts with a towel or let them air dry. Make sure no water is left inside.
Deep Cleaning Tips for Heavy Use
If you use your fryer often, try these:
- Boil-out method – Fill with water and dish soap. Heat for 10 minutes (no oil). Let cool, empty, and rinse.
- Fryer cleaners – Safe for home fryers when used as directed.
- Vinegar wipe – Removes smells and freshens the fryer.
Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t make these common cleaning errors:
- Putting the electrical base in water
- Using metal scrubbers
- Cleaning while it’s still hot
- Using harsh, chemical-heavy cleaners
How Often Should You Clean Your Deep Fryer?
It depends on how much you use it:
- Light use – After every 2–3 uses. Wipe after each use.
- Heavy use – After each frying session.
- Pro tip – Strain oil after use and keep the fryer covered.
Maintenance Tips to Keep It Cleaner Longer
- Use an oil filter to cut down on build-up.
- Wipe right after use before grease hardens.
- Store with the lid closed.
- Fry at the right temperature to reduce splatter.
Recommended Cleaning Products
(Affiliate links these make cleaning faster and easier)
- Dawn Platinum Powerwash Dish Spray – Great for stubborn grease.
- OXO Good Grips Fryer Brush Set – Perfect for baskets and corners.
- AIEVE Oil Filter Funnel – Strain and reuse oil easily.
- MR.SIGA Microfiber Cloths – Soft, absorbent, and washable.
Conclusion
Cleaning your electric deep fryer doesn’t have to be hard. With the right steps and tools, you can keep it looking new, make food taste better, and use it for years.
Remember: Clean oil + clean fryer = better flavor.
Next time you fry, spend a few minutes on cleanup. Your taste buds and your fryer will thank you.
Want it even easier? Check out my top fryer cleaning tools above and make cleaning a breeze.