Pam asked: How do I clean a deep fryer left with oil in it for a long time? My daughter had a new deep fryer and left the oil in it for a long time (she had moved away). Now, no matter how I scrub or what I use, I can’t seem to get the old oil smell out. It looks clean, but the frying basket and inside of the fryer still reek of old oil smell. Any ideas?
If a good scrubbing with a grease fighting dish detergent doesn’t take care of the rancid oil smell in your deep fryer, give this unexpected solution a try.
You Will Need:
- 20 Mule Team Borax
- Water
- Cloth scouring pad
- Small bowl
- Paper towels
Steps to Remove the Rancid Oil Odors:
- Make a paste of Borax and water.
- Apply it generously to the inside of the deep fryer and over the basket.
- Wait up to five minutes, but do not allow the paste to dry.
- Scrub with the cloth scouring pad, adding water to help wash the sides out. Be sure to get all the way to the top.
- Rinse clean with plenty of water. Dry with paper towels or a soft cloth.
- If the smell lingers, you can repeat these steps OR pour dry Borax powder into the fryer. Close it up, and allow it to sit for 24-48 hours to absorb odors. (You may also use baking soda instead.)
Additional Tips and Advice
- Yes, Borax is a laundry detergent, but it’s also a safe, effective cleaner and deodorizer for several household surfaces, including cookware.
- Other common household cleaners can work wonders on odors. Alternatively, filling the fryer with a 50/50 mixture of white vinegar and water OR scrubbing it with a paste made from baking soda and water.
- If the odor stays, thoroughly inspect the fryer for causes other than the frying vat. Check the screen/filter, vents, and other areas for odor. If you find a dirty spot, use a small brush and white vinegar to scrub them clean. Avoid cleaning with Borax or baking soda paste in hard-to-reach areas; it may be difficult to remove.
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