Multifunctional kitchen appliances from the Xiaomi brand are deservedly popular due to the stylish design and the possibility of remote control through the application. However, after cooking a mouth-watering steak or crispy French fries, many owners are faced with the question of how to properly clean the appliance from fat and soda so as not to damage the nonstick coating. Improper care can lead to extraneous smells when cooking and even breaking the device, so it is important to know the technological features of the particular model.
In this article, we will take a look at all the steps of care for the Mi Smart Air Fryer, from preparing for washing to removing persistent contaminants from the heating element. You will learn what products are strictly forbidden to use, how to get rid of the unpleasant smell of plastic or burns, and how to extend the life of the non-stick layer.
Preparation of the device for cleaning and safety
Before you start water treatments, make sure the appliance is completely cooled.Thermal shock - a sharp change in temperature - can warp the metal basket or damage the internal electronic filling if you decide to wash the case immediately after use.Safety is a priority, so disconnect the power cord from the outlet and let the device stand for at least 30 minutes after work is done.
Carefully remove the roast basket from the main unit. In Xiaomi models, it is usually removed by moving upwards with a light press on the lock button. If you have been cooking fatty foods, try to keep the basket horizontally so that hot oil does not spill on the table or your clothes. Visually assess the degree of contamination: the presence of large pieces of food or solidified fat requires preliminary mechanical cleaning before soaking.
⚠️ Warning: Never immerse the main unit with the heating element and electronics in water or other liquid, this will short circuit and irreversible failure of the device, which will not be recognized as a warranty case.
To clean the cart efficiently, you will need soft sponges, paper towels and warm water.The water temperature for washing the basket should not exceed 60 degrees Celsius, unless the instructions for your particular model indicate otherwise, as too hot water can damage the structure of the Teflon-type non-stick coating. Avoid using metal scrapers, hard brushes and abrasive powders that leave the micros scratched.
Steps of washing a removable basket and grille
The removable part of the aerogrill consists of an external basket and an inner perforated grille (or bowl) on which the products are stowed. These are the elements that come into contact with food and fat, so they require the most careful processing. First, remove large food residues with a paper napkin or a soft spatula, so as not to clog the sewers and facilitate the washing process.
Soak the parts in warm water with a small amount of dishwashing. Leave them for 15-20 minutes to soften the fat. Xiaomi models are characterized by a high-quality non-stick coating that does not require aggressive cleaning chemistry. If the contamination is severe, you can use baking soda by creating a slush with water and applying it to problem areas.
☑️ Basket washing checklist
After soaking, gently wipe the surfaces with the soft side of the sponge. Pay attention to the net: fat often gets stuck in the cells. Use a soft brush (such as a toothbrush or bottle special) to clean out dirt from hard-to-reach areas. rinse all the parts carefully under running water, removing the residue of the detergent, as they can give an unpleasant taste the next cooking.
Cleaning of the heating element and the internal chamber
The inside of the housing, where the heating element (TEN) is located, also requires attention, although it comes into contact with food less. During cooking with a high fat content, splashes can fall on the spiral or reflector, burn and smoke on subsequent inclusions, and clean this area should be carried out extremely carefully, without using much water.
Turn the cooled aerogrill upside down or tilt it to access the TEN. Take a wet (but not wet, it should not drip water) soft cloth or sponge. Gently wipe the heating element, removing visible tan and fat. If the increments are strong and dry, you can rub it slightly with a soft brush, but act without fanaticism, so as not to damage the nichrome spiral.
What to do if the stain is heavily contaminated?
The bottom of the inner chamber where the basket is inserted is also wiped with a wet cloth. It often accumulates dust and small crumbs. Make sure that there is no dust and pile in the vents at the bottom and back of the device, as this affects air circulation and the efficiency of the device.
| Component | Cleaning method | Can I use the dishwasher? | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| External basket | Soft sponge, warm water, dishware remedy | Yeah (top shelf) | After each use |
| Interior grille | Soaking, soft brushing | Yeah (top shelf) | After each use |
| The heating element | Wet fabric, dry cleaning | No. | Once every 2-4 weeks |
| Device body | Dry or wet fabric | No. | As pollution progresses |
Removal of persistent contaminants and sofa
Sometimes a standard wash is not enough, especially if you cooked meat with a marinade containing sugar, or cheese that burned and caramelized. In such cases, you form a sticky or hard plaque that is difficult to remove with a regular sponge. For Xiaomi Air Fryer, it is important to use gentle methods to avoid spoiling the coating.
An effective folk remedy is baking soda paste and water. Mix soda with a little water to the consistency of thick sour cream. Apply this mixture on burnt areas and leave for 30 to 60 minutes. Soda has a mild abrasive and fat-breaking effect. After that, rub the area with a soft sponge and rinse with warm water.
⚠️ Warning: Avoid aggressive solvents, acetone, chlorine-bearing bleach, or air grilled oven cleaners, and these vapors can be absorbed into plastic and silicone seals, making further cooking hazardous to health.
Another method is to use citric acid or vinegar, which is good at breaking down fat deposits and mineral plaque, wipe contaminated areas with a cloth soaked in a weak solution of vinegar, leave for 10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly, which also helps to refresh the device and remove stagnant odors.
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To prevent severe contamination, cover the bottom of the basket with parchment for baking or use special silicone inserts for aerogrils. This will greatly simplify the subsequent cleaning, since the fat and juice will remain on the substrate, rather than burn to the metal.
Combating unpleasant odors
The new aerogril can smell plastic on first switching, which is normal and goes away after 2-3 cycles of calcination at maximum temperature without food, but if the smell appeared after a while after use, it is a signal that the device has accumulated residues of fat or food that begin to burn, and the smell can be transmitted from strongly smelling products such as fish or spices.
To eliminate the smell, you can use the steam bath method. Pour water into the bowl of aerogrill (or into the heat-resistant container you put inside) with slices of lemon and a couple of drops of vinegar. Turn on the device for 10-15 minutes at a temperature of about 180-200 degrees. Steam with acid and citrus oils disinfects the inner walls and neutralizes unpleasant scents.
If the smell is persistent and comes from silicone seals or plastic parts that have absorbed the flavors, try to wipe them with a solution of water and lemon juice. Activated charcoal also helps: leave a few tablets in a closed but cooled basket overnight, they absorb unnecessary odors. Regular and timely cleaning is the best prevention of foreign scents.
Drying and storage of the device
Proper drying is the final and equally important step of care. Moisture remaining in the microcracks of the coating or between layers of metal can lead to corrosion or mold, especially if the device is stored in a closed cabinet. After washing, thoroughly wipe all the parts with a dry microfiber towel or paper wipes.
Let the basket and grille dry completely at room temperature before assembly. Don't fold the device while there is moisture inside. Keep the aerogrills unassembled or with the basket ajar open to allow air to circulate inside the chamber, which will prevent the appearance of musty smell.
Make sure the storage area is dry and protected from direct sunlight, which can fade plastic over time. If you keep the appliance in the closet for a long time, you can put a silica gel bag inside to control humidity. Adherence to these simple storage rules will preserve the aesthetic appearance and functionality of your Xiaomi smart appliances.
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Complete drying of all components before assembly and storage is critical to prevent metal corrosion and mold in the hidden cavities of the device.