How to Clean an Air Fryer

Learning how to clean an air fryer is one of the most important steps in owning this popular appliance. A clean air fryer cooks more efficiently, prevents smoke and odors, and is safer to use. While the process is straightforward, knowing which parts to focus on and which to avoid is key. We’ll guide you through a simple routine to keep your air fryer in top shape, covering the basket, tray, interior, and how to tackle stubborn grease.

Unplug and Cool First

Before you touch any part of your air fryer for cleaning, you must unplug it from the electrical outlet. This is the most critical safety step. Next, let the appliance cool down completely. Air fryers get very hot during and after use. Touching hot surfaces can cause burns, and introducing cool water or cleaning agents to a hot unit can damage components or create steam hazards. Wait at least 30 minutes to an hour to ensure it’s safe to handle.

Basket and Tray

The removable basket (or crisper tray) and the drip tray or pan at the bottom collect the most food particles and grease. This is the core of air fryer cleaning. For most models, you can simply lift these parts out.

1. Take the basket and tray to your sink.
2. If food is stuck, let them soak in warm, soapy water for 10-15 minutes to loosen residue.
3. Use a soft sponge or non-abrasive brush to scrub. Avoid steel wool or harsh scouring pads, especially on nonstick coatings, as they can cause scratches.
4. For baked-on grease, a paste of baking soda and water can be gently applied and scrubbed.
5. Rinse thoroughly with warm water and dry completely with a soft towel or let air-dry before reassembling. Trapped moisture can lead to rust or mildew.

For more tips on caring for coated surfaces, see our guide on how to care for nonstick cookware.

Heating Element Area

The heating element, usually a coil at the top of the cooking chamber, should never be immersed in water or sprayed directly. Cleaning here is about gentle removal of debris. After the appliance is unplugged and cool, use a soft, dry brush (a clean, unused paintbrush or a soft-bristled pastry brush works well) to gently dislodge any visible crumbs or food particles from the coil. You can also use a damp microfiber cloth to carefully wipe the interior walls and the outside of the heating element housing, being careful not to bend or disturb the coil itself. Never use abrasive tools or excessive force.

Grease and Smells

Over time, grease can build up on the interior walls and even the basket, leading to smoke and persistent food odors. To tackle grease, make a cleaning solution of warm water and a few drops of mild dish soap. Use a soft sponge or cloth to wipe down the entire interior cavity, including under the removable tray if accessible. For tougher grease, a 50/50 solution of water and white vinegar can help cut through it. To eliminate odors, place a slice of lemon or a bowl with baking soda in the cold air fryer basket, run it at a low temperature for a few minutes, then let it sit. Always wipe out any residue afterward. Keeping your appliance clean is a fundamental part of kitchen cleaning & maintenance.

Dishwasher-Safe Parts (Check Manual)

Whether your air fryer basket, tray, or other accessories are dishwasher-safe depends entirely on the manufacturer’s specifications. Many baskets with nonstick coatings are labeled as top-rack dishwasher safe, but frequent dishwasher cleaning can sometimes shorten the life of the coating. The high heat and harsh detergents may cause wear over time. The only way to know for sure is to check your model’s use-and-care manual. When in doubt, hand-washing is the gentler option and is recommended for preserving nonstick surfaces. For cleaning other appliances, our article on how to clean a blender follows similar principles.

Liners and What to Avoid

Many cooks use perforated parchment paper liners or silicone baskets designed for air fryers to minimize mess. These can be helpful, but it’s crucial to use only liners rated for air fryer use and to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to ensure proper air circulation. Never use solid liners, aluminum foil (unless specified in your manual), or plastic wrap, as they can block airflow, cause overheating, and potentially damage the appliance or create a fire hazard. Avoid using aerosol cooking sprays directly on the basket, as some contain lecithin or other additives that can damage nonstick coatings over time; use an oil mister instead. For cleaning other types of cookware, you might find our articles on stainless steel pans or cast iron seasoning useful.

FAQ

Can I put my air fryer basket in the dishwasher?

This depends on your specific model. Many air fryer baskets are advertised as top-rack dishwasher safe. However, you should always verify this in your appliance’s use-and-care manual. Even if it is dishwasher-safe, hand-washing with mild soap is often gentler on nonstick coatings and can help them last longer.

How do I clean the heating element?

Clean the heating element gently and without liquids. Once the appliance is completely cool and unplugged, use a soft, dry brush to lightly brush away any loose crumbs or debris from the coil. You can also use the brush attachment on a dry vacuum cleaner to suction debris away. Do not spray, scrub, or use any cleaning solutions directly on the heating element.

What is the best way to clean a really greasy air fryer basket?

For a basket with baked-on grease, let it soak in hot, soapy water. For stubborn spots, make a paste of baking soda and a little water, apply it to the greasy areas, and let it sit for 15-20 minutes before scrubbing gently with a non-abrasive sponge or brush. Rinse and dry thoroughly.

How often should I clean my air fryer?

We recommend wiping out the interior and washing the basket and tray after every use to prevent grease and odor buildup. A more thorough cleaning of the heating element area and a deep clean of all parts should be done at least once a month, depending on how frequently you use it.

Why is my air fryer smoking, and can cleaning fix it?

Smoking is often caused by accumulated grease or food debris in the bottom tray or on the heating element. A thorough cleaning of the basket, tray, and interior walls, plus gently brushing the heating element, will usually resolve the issue. Also, ensure you are not overfilling the basket, as excess oil from food can drip and smoke.