Expert shares safety warning over common mistake people make while using air fryer

An expert has flagged an air fryer mistake which at least half of the people who own the kitchen appliances are guilty of - and it could have serious consequences.

It comes after a UK doctor warned that the non-stick lining on air fryers could pose a health risk if its damaged or scratched, so you need to make sure you're cleaning it carefully, and not using abrasive scrubbers.

And as well as being careful about how you clean your air fryer, you also need to be mindful about where you put it in the kitchen.

Your air fryer could be a hazard in your home, depending on where in your kitchen it is. (Getty Stock)

If it's on the side and out in the open when you're cooking your food then that's a positive, and even better if it's on a heatproof mat to protect your counter tops from heat damage.

But for many of us, or maybe just me, it's probably plugged in and stowed underneath a cabinet to try and keep things tidy - and that could be a major problem.

It could be a fire hazard as if it's tucked away then your air fryer isn't getting enough room for ample air circulation.

If you're now feeling guilty that your air fryer is hiding under your kitchen cabinets then you're not alone, as research by Toolstation revealed that actually more than half of people who own air fryers use them directly below kitchen cabinets.

Cara Yates, Kitchen Senior Category Manager at Toolstation, explained why this is such a danger: "Air fryers and kettles, while useful, can pose a risk to your kitchen due to the heat they generate when in use.

"Specifically, air fryers require ample space for proper air circulation to prevent the appliance from overheating.

"Placing them under low cabinets can damage both the air fryer and the cabinet, resulting in discolouration, warping, and even a potential fire hazard.

If you're feeling guilty about where your air fryer is in the kitchen, then don't worry - half of us are storing them wrong too. (Getty Stock)

"Air fryers should be placed on an open countertop away from any walls and corners and ideally on a heat-proof mat to protect the countertop."

It's also not just the air fryer that can be a danger, other kitchen appliances come with dangers too.

The humble kettle can also prove a danger as Cara added: "Kettles also pose a risk when placed directly below cabinets, as the steam they release can cause moisture damage to cabinets over time.

"This excessive moisture can lead to mould growth and structural damage, reducing the lifespan of your kitchen cabinets.

"Again, to help prevent damage to overhead cabinets, consider using the kettle on a kitchen surface that has plenty of space above it. If this isn’t an option, then make sure to wipe away condensation to keep the cabinet base dry and prevent any possible mould growth."