Air fryers have revolutionised our cooking methods, eliminating the need for oven preheating or excessive oil use. These convenient kitchen devices do all the hard work swiftly and healthily, and if you own one, you probably use it most days. 

Regular cleaning can prolong its lifespan. However, home experts have issued a stark warning about a lesser-known issue with air fryers that could have 'serious' health implications. Cleaning specialists at Fountain Filters emphasise the importance of regularly checking your air fryers, as they could be harbouring harmful mould.

Mould can thrive in the inside of your air fryer, particularly in the basket, if it isn't thoroughly cleaned and dried after each use. The combination of leftover food, warmth, and moisture provides an ideal breeding ground for mould, reports the Daily Record. 

Over time, the buildup of grease and crumbs can worsen this problem, making it essential to clean the appliance after each use to prevent any mould spores from taking root.

Louise Allen, co-founder of Fountain Filters, says that mould can have 'serious health implications' that many people tend to overlook. She cautioned: "Exposure to mould can lead to a range of health issues, from minor allergic reactions like sneezing and skin rashes to more severe respiratory problems, particularly for those with asthma or weakened immune systems.

"As we prepare for the colder months, when mould tends to thrive in the damp and poorly ventilated areas of our homes, it's more important than ever to be vigilant."

How to clean your air fryer 

The good news is that maintaining your air fryer's cleanliness is very easy. Simply unplug your device, take out all detachable components, and clean them using hot, soapy water.

Next, clean the inside using a cloth soaked in a blend of lemon juice and water, ensuring each component is completely dry before reassembling.

Likewise, your coffee machine - which countless people depend on daily for an essential morning caffeine boost - might also be hiding hazardous mould spores without proper maintenance.

The continual moisture in the water reservoir and internal pipes, paired with heat from the brewing cycle, creates an ideal environment for mould growth. However, there's a simple method to prevent mould here as well.

Just run a cycle with a mixture of water and white vinegar through the coffee maker, then run two cycles with just water to rinse. Afterwards, make sure the machine is completely dry before storing it.