Crunchy fries lose their sparkle if yesterday’s grease is glued to the basket. Harsh scrubs ruin non‑stick coatings, so let’s tackle build‑up the Flavor Pop way—baking‑soda paste plus a little patience equals sparkling clean in minutes.
Why Baking Soda Rocks
Abrasive‑yet‑soft: Lifts grime without scoring the surface.
Deodorizer: Neutralizes lingering fish‑and‑wing smells.
Pantry Staple: No special cleaners or harsh chemicals.
3‑Ingredient Paste
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Baking soda | 2 Tbsp |
| Warm water | 1 Tbsp |
| Dish soap | 1 tsp |
Mix to a spreadable paste (like frosting).
Flavor‑Pop Tip: Add ½ tsp white vinegar for extra fizz on burnt bits—but only if the basket’s manual okays mild acids.
5‑Minute Cleaning Routine
Unplug & Cool – Wait until fryer is room temp.
Remove Basket & Tray – Soak 2 min in warm, soapy water if heavily gunked.
Spread Paste – Coat stuck spots with your baking‑soda mix.
Wait 3 Minutes – Let the alkaline magic loosen grease.
Soft Scrub – Use a silicone spatula or soft brush; circular strokes, light pressure.
Rinse & Dry – Warm water rinse, towel‑dry, then air‑dry before reassembly.
Stubborn Spot Rescue
Wooden skewers pop crumbs out of mesh.
Old toothbrush reaches heating‑element corners.
Repeat paste for historic grease—better to reapply than attack with steel wool.
Odor‑Reset Bonus
After cleaning, run the fryer empty at 350 °F for 3 minutes. Lingering moisture evaporates, and any faint baking‑soda scent vanishes—ready for your next batch of flavor pops.
Keep It Clean with Minimal Effort
Shake out crumbs after every use—no scrubbing needed later.
DIY parchment liners (with poked holes) catch drips, preserve airflow.
Monthly deep clean using this paste = coating stays slick, fries stay crisp.
Snap your sparkling basket, tag @FlavorPopKitchen, and share your before/after shots. Your air fryer—and your crunch‑loving taste buds—will thank you!