There are so many options when it comes to the material of your cookware. There’s stainless steel, ceramic coated, cast iron, aluminum, copper, non-stick, and more. Each material has their own pros and cons. So, why did we choose non-stick for our air fryer basket? There are countless benefits that nonstick has, but we understand there can be some limitations. For instance, it’s important to realize that non-stick cookware should be switched out every couple of years. Non-stick simply doesn’t last as long as other cookware and this is for safety reasons. We recommend replacing your basket once there are flakes, but there’s no need to panic. According to Ask a Toxicologist, minimal PTFE ingested will pass through your digestive tract without harm to yourself or loved ones. So, if it happens it’s okay. Just replace it after you realize what’s happened. Now, we’re going to talk about the benefits of using non-stick and give you tips on how to prolong the lifespan.
Benefits of Non-Stick Coating
1. No more excessive oil.
With nonstick cookware the need to use an excessive amount of oil is eliminated. If you’d like to still use oil, you would need a lot less. This goes hand in hand with an air fryer too.
2. Easier Clean Up
Food doesn’t get glued on to the bottom unlike other cookware. All you have to do is soak your basket and use a non-abrasive sponge.
3. Uniform Heat Distribution
A non-stick surface is better at distributing heat than stainless steel and cast iron. (Morin)
Tips for Preserving your Air Fryer Basket
1. Wait until the basket has cooled completely
Before soaking it in cooler soapy water, wait until the basket has cooled. The change in temperature could warp the basket and shorten the lifespan of the non-stick coating. Instead wait a couple of minutes before washing your basket with a sponge and soapy water. It’ll be worth it in the end.
2. Only use non-abrasive sponges or cloths.
When cleaning your air fryer basket, we recommend using a non-abrasive sponge or cloth. We have found that a cloth works best for preserving the basket. While many say the basket is dishwasher safe, we believe it’s better to hand wash.
3. Do not use nonstick spray.
Using nonstick spray on a nonstick surface actually doesn’t work as well as you would think. Instead, use an oil spritzer or a small amount oil.
4. Use softer detergents when cleaning your basket.
Detergents you use when hand washing dishes are considered soft. Products like dishwasher detergents, bleach, and Ajax are considered harsh cleaners. Be careful, harsh cleaners can deteriorate the basket’s coating.
5. Don’t use metal on your nonstick basket.
Perhaps many have heard this already, but for those who haven’t…this is very important. Metal utensils can easily scratch and ruin the surface. Try using wood, rubber, silicone, nylon, or plastic utensils instead.
6. Make sure basket is thoroughly clean.
Residue can cause corrosion later in the lifespan of the basket. So, it’s important to make sure the basket is thoroughly cleaned. This may mean cleaning it twice, but one tip would be to let it soak and rinse twice after cleaning the basket.
7. Use parchment paper.
Lining the bottom of your basket with foil or parchment paper can help your basket live longer.
