Millions of Brits will be using the popular appliance to cook their festive dinner this year, which is seen as a better alternative to the oven by many.
As a result, fire concerns have been raised as users admit to a range of festive feast faux pas when using their device.
Consumer safety charity Electrical Safety First has stated that more than four in ten (43%) owners admit to engaging in dangerous practices when using their devices.
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Brits reported using baking paper whilst cooking (16%), leaving the appliance running unattended (14%), not cleaning it regularly (12%) and operating it too close to a wall or in an enclosed space (10%), all of which can significantly increase the risk of fire.
Stephen Curtler, product safety manager at Electrical Safety First, said: “The air fryer has changed kitchen cooking habits forever and whilst they can be a convenient and efficient way to cook, like any electrical appliance, they need to be used safely as the last thing anyone wants is their festive feast turning into a Christmas catastrophe.
“When using your air fryer, it’s best not to leave it unattended. If you smell burning plastic or hear any unusual noises coming from your machine, unplug it straight away and contact the manufacturer.
“Avoid using too much oil and don’t use baking paper inside, as this can restrict the airflow your device needs to operate safely, and if the paper comes loose, it could come into contact with the heating element and catch fire. Don’t let your air fryer be the Grinch that stole Christmas.”
The nation’s dirty laundry has also been aired, as the data reveals their air fryer cleaning habits.
Whilst almost a third (31%) clean theirs after every use, almost one in ten (9%) admit they only scrub it once a month or less. Londoners were the biggest culprits (14%), followed by respondents in Wales (11%), for not cleaning their air fryers regularly.
The charity is also urging people to shop this Christmas safely and buy electrical devices from a reputable high-street retailer, as a fifth of owners (19%) say they purchased their air fryer from an online marketplace, where substandard and unsafe electrical products are often sold by third-party sellers, leaving them at risk of bringing a dangerous product into their home.
Stephen Curtler added: “With dangerous electrical products still flooding online marketplaces, choosing where you shop is just as important as how you use your appliances.
“Safety starts with where you shop, and buying from a reputable high-street retailer is the best way to ensure your air fryer, or any other electrical product, brings nothing but festive cheer into your home.”
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