I just cleaned mine like a month ago. I used oven cleaner, the no fumes kind, and it worked really well. After I washed it with soap and water, then I filled it with water and turned it on so the water would boil. All of the stuff left over floated to the top. Then I let the hot water out through the drain to clean it. If it greasy on the outside, I used a degreaser. Spray it on let it sit for a few minutes and then wipe off. I hope this helps good luck.
I have a Rival Deep Fryer. Mine has detachable parts so after using it I let it cool completely,and remove the heating element and just use a hot soapy dish cloth and then rinse with a cloth untill all residue is removed. This is working great for me and the element does not stay in the oil all the time. I strain the oil and reuse it when needed.Hope this helps, God Bless.
I got a little one and can't figure out how to take it apart so I can clean it one piece at a time