Air fryers have truly revolutionised the way we cook - gone are the days of waiting ages for the oven to heat up or drowning your food in oil to fry it. These nifty kitchen gadgets do all of the hard graft in aquick and healthy manner.
If you've got one, it's likely you'll probably use it most days. And taking good care of your appliance, such as washing it frequently, can help to extend its lifespan.
But home experts have issued a stark alert about one little-known problem when it comes to air fryers, that could end up having 'serious' implications on your health.
Cleaning experts at Fountain Filters have hailed the importance of checking your air fryers regularly - as there could be some nasty mould lurking in there, reports the Daily Record.
Mould can take hold in the interior of your air fryer, especially in the basket, if it's not thoroughly cleaned and dried after each use. The combination of food residue, warmth, and moisture creates an ideal environment for mould to grow.
Over time, the buildup of grease and crumbs can further contribute to this issue, making it crucial to clean the appliance after each use to prevent any mould spores from taking root.
Louise Allen, co-founder of Fountain Filters, has raised concerns about the often underestimated health risks associated with mould. She cautioned: "Exposure to mould can lead to a range of health issues, from minor allergic reactions like sneezing and skin rashes to more severe respiratory problems, particularly for those with asthma or weakened immune systems. As we prepare for the colder months, when mould tends to thrive in the damp and poorly ventilated areas of our homes, it's more important than ever to be vigilant."
However, she also reassured that maintaining cleanliness in kitchen appliances like air fryers is very easy. The process involves unplugging the device, disassembling all detachable components, and washing them in hot, soapy water.
After that, you should clean the inside with a cloth soaked in a blend of lemon juice and water, ensuring everything is completely dry before putting it back together.
Similarly, your coffee machine could also be a breeding ground for harmful mould spores without proper care.
Due to the constant moisture in the water reservoir and internal pipes, as well as the heat from brewing, coffee machines are an ideal environment for mould growth.
But there's a simple solution to ward off mould here too. Just run a cycle with a blend of water and white vinegar through the coffee maker, then run two cycles with just water for rinsing.
After that, make sure the machine is bone dry before you put it away.
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