When buying an air fryer for your kitchen, one of the most essential pieces of advice is to make sure you choose the right spot. The best spot should be able to provide easy access and optimal safety while providing the proper ventilation necessary for air fryers.
Most importantly, the chosen location should be able to maximize its efficiency in terms of using available countertop space and giving you the perfect all-around experience with your air fryer.
The typical choices for where to place an air fryer are on a countertop near a wall outlet or under the kitchen cabinets with enough space above. To prevent overheating, placing the air fryer on a countertop away from other appliances that emit heat is important.
It is recommended to leave ample space around the basket to facilitate easy access to the food. Ensure enough space above your air fryer to avoid blocking important components like exhaust ports or vents. Ventilate both locations and keep them away from ovens. Read on to learn more about it.
Why do You need to Store Air Fryers?
Storing an air fryer is important because it helps to keep the appliance clean and free of dust and other particles. It also makes it easier to access when you need to use it. Furthermore, properly storing an air fryer helps keep its parts in working order for longer.
The best way to store an air fryer is by keeping it in a cool, dry location. This can be on a kitchen countertop or in a cabinet. If you are storing an air fryer in a cabinet, it’s important to ensure enough space for air circulation and that the surface is clean and dry.
Here are 5 Best Ways to Store Air Fryer
1. Worktop
The worktop or kitchen countertop is the most popular area for air fryers to be placed. Your air fryer in this spot can easily be accessed and used when desired. This is also a convenient location when cooking as you don’t have to move it around from place to place.
The advantage of the air fryer being close to other kitchen appliances, such as the microwave or toaster, allows for easy meal preparation, saving time to lift and move the appliance into different positions.
Though there are advantages to keeping an air fryer on the countertop, there can be cons too. The amount of space on a counter or worktop can reduce the available area for other tasks.
Additionally, items left on a countertop can clutter space and look untidy, making it difficult to carry out other food preparation tasks like chopping vegetables. To prevent these problems, look into solutions such as clear storage containers that allow for storing
2. Inside a Cabinet
Storing an air fryer inside a cabinet or deep drawer that can be tucked away may seem like the perfect solution for those with limited counter space. There are a few benefits to this approach that should be considered.
Keeping the air fryer out of sight when not in use maximizes the counter space and can help keep the area clean and uncluttered. An additional bonus is that it may protect the air fryer from dust and dirt as it would be covered by doors or drawers when not used.
On the other hand, there are several drawbacks to consider if you decide to store your air fryer inside a cabinet or deep drawer. The main con is that you will have less access to the appliance as it will require more effort and occasionally quite a bit of setup to get it out of its storage spot before use.
Depending on how much you plan on using your air fryer, this inconvenience could outweigh several pros of having your appliance out of sight. Additionally, if other items are stored along with your air fryer, accessing them could prove difficult and time-consuming due to their location.
3. In a Cupboard or Drawer
An air fryer can be stored in a cupboard or drawer if there is enough space around the appliance to allow for proper ventilation.
This option effectively keeps the appliance out of sight when not in use while still being easily accessible. It also allows for storing other kitchen items nearby, making them easy to access when needed.
Like the other storage solutions, a few cons exist before deciding on this option. Storing an air fryer in a cupboard or drawer can make cleaning out dust and dirt difficult, as moving the appliance each time you want to vacuum or wipe down the area will require effort.
Additionally, depending on the available space, the items stored near the air fryer may prevent them from being moved readily.
4. On a Shelf
For those with limited counter or cupboard space, storing an air fryer on a shelf can effectively keep it out of sight when not in use. Placing it on a shelf allows for easy access when needed and prevents the appliance from taking up valuable counter space.
However, there are several cons to consider before deciding on this option. Having an air fryer on a shelf means you will need to lift it and set it down each time you want to use it. Additionally, depending on the size of the shelf, the appliance may not fit snugly in its spot and could be at risk of falling or being knocked off.
Things That Influence Locations of Air Fryers
When it comes to storing an air fryer, convenience is key. The ideal location of an air fryer will depend on various factors, such as the type and size of the appliance, how often it’s used, and available counter or storage space.
Additionally, it’s important to consider safety when selecting a spot for your air fryer. Here are some things to keep in mind when deciding where to place your air fryer:
Size of the Air Fryer
When it comes to storing an air fryer, the size of the unit is an important factor. Smaller air fryers can easily fit in a cabinet or pantry, while larger units may require more space.
For best results, try to find a place with enough room to store your air fryer without compromising accessibility. Additionally, consider how much ventilation the storage area needs to accommodate your unit.
Frequency of Use
If you plan on using your air fryer often, having it readily accessible in a convenient spot can help make the cooking process easier and faster. On the other hand, if you only use your air fryer occasionally, placing it in a cupboard or drawer may be more convenient.
Safety Considerations
When selecting a storage area for your air fryer, it’s important to consider safety. Depending on the size of the unit, you may need to install shelving or reinforcements that can hold the appliance’s weight.
Additionally, ensure that the area you choose is not easily accessible to children or pets. Finally, be sure to check that there is enough ventilation around the unit when stored in a cupboard or drawer.
Space When In Use
When storing an air fryer, it is important to remember the amount of space required when it is in use. The most efficient way to store an air fryer is on a countertop or other flat surface to easily pull it out when needed.
This also ensures that the unit has adequate ventilation and does not hinder other kitchen appliances or items.
Where Shouldn’t You Put Air Fryer?
Air fryers are extremely popular kitchen appliances, but it is important to remember that they should be stored in a safe manner. The best way to store an air fryer is somewhere out of the way, like on a countertop or in a pantry.
It should also be kept from heat sources such as ovens, stovetops, and microwaves. Additionally, the air fryer should not be stored near flammable materials or in an area with much moisture.
Finally, it should never be placed on a surface that cannot support its weight or is too close to other appliances.
When selecting a spot for your air fryer, it is important to consider the size of your kitchen and the type of appliance. Smaller kitchens may not have the room to accommodate an air fryer that requires a lot of counter space.
Placing it in a cupboard or drawer can be beneficial, but safety should still be considered. Additionally, if you plan on using your air fryer often, keeping it in a convenient spot that allows easy access is best.
With the right storage location, you can ensure your air fryer is safe and easily accessible.
Is it OK to Store An Air Fryer On Its Side?
The short answer to this question is no; storing an air fryer on its side is not recommended. Air fryers do best when stored upright on a flat and level surface.
This will help ensure that the air circulating inside the air fryer is properly distributed through all of the components within the appliance.
Storing an air fryer on its side could also cause damage to the basket and other parts of the unit.
Frequently Asked Questions [FAQs]
1. How Should I Store My Air Fryer?
The best way to store your air fryer is to keep it in a cool, dry place and away from any heat sources. Ensure the area is well-ventilated and the air fryer is completely dry before you put it away. It’s best to store the air fryer on a flat, level surface so that the air is evenly distributed and no components are damaged.
2. How Long Will An Air Fryer Last?
Air fryers can last for several years with proper care and maintenance. To help maximize its lifespan, clean it regularly, store it in a cool, dry place away from heat sources, and avoid storing it on its side.
3. Can I Store My Air Fryer In The Refrigerator?
No, it would be best not to store your air fryer in the refrigerator. Air fryers do best when stored at room temperature away from heat sources. Refrigerators generate a lot of moisture and humidity, which can damage the components of an air fryer.
4. Can I Keep The Air Fryer In The Cabinet?
When placing an air fryer under cabinets, it is important to consider that it may not be the optimal choice. If you decide to go this route, ensure ample clearance of 10 inches on all sides. It is worth noting that air frying can result in the production of smoke and grease.
5. Do Air Fryers Need Space Around Them?
Although small, air fryers require ample space to function efficiently. These mini convection ovens need sufficient room for proper airflow, which distributes the high-temperature heat evenly, resulting in crispy food. According to The Kitchn, ensure your air fryer has at least five inches of space on all sides.
Conclusion
The best way to store an air fryer is somewhere out of the way, like on a countertop or in a pantry. It should also be kept from heat sources such as ovens, stovetops, and microwaves and never placed on a surface that cannot support its weight or is too close to other appliances.
Additionally, storing it upright on a flat and level surface helps ensure that the air circulating inside the air fryer is properly distributed through all of the components within the appliance.
Meet our air fryer recipe expert, Jenny J. Brown. Jenny is a culinary enthusiast with a passion for creating healthy, delicious meals using the latest kitchen appliances. As an experienced home cook and food blogger, Jenny has spent years experimenting with air fryer recipes and perfecting her techniques to create meals that are both nutritious and satisfying.
