Thinking about tackling that greasy air fryer that’s been sitting on your counter? You’re not alone! Air fryers have revolutionized the way we cook, offering a healthier alternative to deep frying. But like any kitchen appliance, they require regular maintenance to keep them performing at their best. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about cleaning your air fryer, from quick daily wipes to deep cleaning methods that will extend the life of your favorite kitchen gadget.
Whether you’ve just purchased your first air fryer or you’re a seasoned user looking for better cleaning techniques, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to keep your appliance spotless, odor-free, and functioning perfectly for years to come.
Why Cleaning Your Air Fryer Is Important
Regular cleaning of your air fryer isn’t just about aesthetics-it’s essential for several critical reasons:
- Food Safety: Food residues and grease can harbor bacteria, leading to unpleasant odors and potential health risks
- Performance: A clean air fryer functions more efficiently, ensuring even cooking and preventing smoke during operation
- Taste Quality: Leftover food particles can affect the flavor of your next meal
- Longevity: Proper maintenance extends the life of your air fryer, protecting your investment
- Reduced Fire Risk: Accumulated grease can become a fire hazard when heated repeatedly
According to recent studies, kitchen appliances that aren’t regularly cleaned can harbor more bacteria than a toilet seat. Keeping your air fryer clean ensures your food remains safe and delicious every time.
Quick Clean: After Each Use
For optimal performance and longevity, you should clean your air fryer after every use. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide for a quick clean:
- Unplug and Cool Down: Always turn off and unplug your air fryer after use. Let it cool completely for at least 30 minutes before cleaning
- Remove Excess Oil: If oil has accumulated in the basket, wipe it out with a paper towel first to prevent clogging your sink
- Wash Removable Parts: Clean the basket and tray with warm, soapy water. Many air fryers have dishwasher-safe parts, but hand washing can help preserve the non-stick coating
- Wipe Down Interior: Use a damp cloth to wipe the inside of the air fryer, being careful around the heating element
- Clean the Exterior: Wipe the outside with a damp cloth to remove any splatter or fingerprints
- Dry Thoroughly: Make sure all components are completely dry before reassembling
This quick clean routine takes just a few minutes but makes a significant difference in maintaining your air fryer’s performance and preventing stubborn buildup.
Deep Clean: Monthly Maintenance
Even with regular quick cleans, your air fryer will need a more thorough cleaning about once a month, or more frequently if you use it often or cook greasy foods. Here’s how to perform a deep clean:
What You’ll Need:
- Dish soap
- Warm water
- Soft cloth or non-abrasive sponge
- Old toothbrush
- Baking soda
- All-purpose cleaner (optional)
Step-by-Step Deep Cleaning Process:
- Unplug and Cool: Ensure the air fryer is completely cool and unplugged
- Disassemble All Parts: Remove the basket, tray, and any other removable components
- Soak Removable Parts: For stubborn residue, fill the basket with hot water and dish soap and let soak for 10-15 minutes
- Scrub Gently: Use a non-abrasive sponge to clean all removable parts. For tough spots, make a paste with baking soda and water, apply it to the stubborn areas, and let it sit for about 20 minutes
- Clean the Heating Element: Turn the air fryer upside down to access the heating element. Gently wipe it with a damp cloth or soft brush to remove any grease or food particles
- Tackle the Interior: Wipe down the inside walls with a damp cloth and mild soap. For tough grease, a mixture of vinegar and water (1:1 ratio) can be effective
- Clean the Exterior: Wipe the outside of the air fryer thoroughly, paying special attention to the control panel and vents
- Rinse and Dry: Rinse all washed parts thoroughly and dry completely before reassembling
- Reassemble: Put all components back together properly
For the 2025 season, many air fryer manufacturers are now recommending a monthly deep clean to maintain warranty coverage, so keeping up with this routine is more important than ever.
Cleaning Specific Air Fryer Components
Basket and Tray
The basket and tray are the parts that come into direct contact with food and require the most attention:
- Daily Cleaning: Wash with warm, soapy water using a non-abrasive sponge
- Stubborn Residue: For baked-on food, soak in hot, soapy water for 30-60 minutes
- Non-Stick Coating: Never use metal utensils or abrasive cleaners as they can damage the coating
- Dishwasher Option: While many baskets are dishwasher-safe, hand washing is gentler on the non-stick coating and will extend its life
Heating Element
The heating element requires special care:
- Gentle Cleaning: Use a soft brush or damp cloth to carefully clean the heating element16
- Avoid Water: Never submerge the heating element or main unit in water9
- Upside-Down Access: Turn the air fryer upside down on a soft cloth to better reach the heating element16
- Dry Thoroughly: Ensure the heating element is completely dry before using the air fryer again5
Exterior and Control Panel
Keep the outside looking new:
- Damp Cloth: Wipe with a slightly damp cloth and mild soap if needed2
- Control Panel: Pay special attention to buttons and displays, which can collect grease from fingers2
- Vents: Use a soft brush to clear any dust or debris from air vents8
What NOT to Do When Cleaning Your Air Fryer
Avoid these common mistakes that could damage your appliance:
- Never Submerge the Main Unit: The electrical components should never be immersed in water9
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: These can damage the non-stick coating and potentially contaminate your food4
- Don’t Use Metal Utensils: These can scratch and damage the non-stick surface16
- Skip Abrasive Sponges: Steel wool or abrasive scrubbers will ruin the coating13
- Never Clean While Hot: Always let your air fryer cool completely before cleaning2
- Don’t Fill with Water and Run: Despite being a viral TikTok trend, you should never fill your air fryer with water and a dishwasher tablet while it’s turned on, as this can damage the appliance4
Pro Tips for Easier Cleaning
These expert tips will make cleaning your air fryer much simpler:
- Use Liners: Air fryer basket liners or parchment paper can drastically reduce mess and make cleanup easier4
- Clean Immediately: Wiping down after each use prevents buildup and makes deep cleaning less necessary8
- Baking Soda Paste: For stubborn stains, a paste of baking soda and water works wonders9
- Vinegar Solution: A 1:1 mixture of vinegar and water helps break down grease without harsh chemicals2
- Toothbrush Hack: An old toothbrush is perfect for getting into the basket’s crevices and hard-to-reach areas49
- Lemon Fresh: Add a few drops of lemon juice to your cleaning solution for a fresh scent and extra grease-cutting power
- Preventative Maintenance: Spray or brush a tiny amount of oil on the basket before cooking to prevent sticking
The latest 2025 air fryer models feature improved non-stick coatings that make cleaning significantly easier, but these tips work well for all air fryer types and ages.
Cleaning Products: What Works Best
While basic dish soap and water work well for most cleaning needs, here are some effective cleaning products for different situations:
Everyday Cleaning:
- Dish Soap: Mild dish soap is sufficient for regular cleaning
- Microfiber Cloths: These are gentle on non-stick surfaces and effective at picking up grease
For Stubborn Grease:
- Baking Soda: Make a paste with water for tough, baked-on residue9
- White Vinegar: Excellent for cutting through grease2
What to Avoid:
- Dedicated Air Fryer Cleaning Sprays: These are often unnecessary and can be replaced with products you already have at home
- Oven Cleaners: These are too harsh for air fryers and can damage the coating
- Bleach-Based Products: These can leave harmful residues and damage components
How Often Should You Clean Your Air Fryer?
Establishing a cleaning schedule will help maintain your air fryer’s performance:
- After Every Use: Quick clean (basket, tray, and a wipe of the interior)
- Weekly: More thorough cleaning of all removable parts and interior
- Monthly: Deep clean, including the heating element and exterior
- As Needed: Additional cleaning if you notice:
- Smoke during operation
- Unpleasant odors
- Visible grease buildup
- Food sticking to the basket
Maintaining Different Types of Air Fryers
Different air fryer models may require slightly different cleaning approaches:
Basket-Style Air Fryers:
- Focus on thoroughly cleaning the basket and tray
- Check for food particles trapped in the basket mesh
Oven-Style Air Fryers:
- Clean all racks and trays
- Wipe down the interior walls and door
- Check door seals for grease buildup
Dual-Basket Air Fryers:
- Clean each basket separately
- Pay attention to the divider area where crumbs can accumulate
Troubleshooting Common Cleaning Issues
Stubborn Stains Won’t Come Off
- Create a paste with baking soda and water
- Apply to stained areas and let sit for 20-30 minutes
- Gently scrub with a soft brush9
Lingering Food Odors
- Clean with a vinegar-water solution
- Sprinkle baking soda in the basket and let sit for a few hours to absorb odors
- Run the empty air fryer for a few minutes after cleaning to eliminate any remaining odors
Damaged Non-Stick Coating
- If the coating is flaking, it may be time to replace the basket
- Prevent damage by using only non-abrasive cleaning tools
- Consider using parchment liners to protect the remaining coating
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I put my air fryer basket in the dishwasher?
Most air fryer baskets are dishwasher-safe, but hand washing is gentler on the non-stick coating and will help it last longer1. Check your specific model’s manual for manufacturer recommendations.
2. How do I clean the heating element in my air fryer?
Turn the air fryer upside down on a soft cloth to access the heating element. Use a soft brush or damp cloth to gently remove any grease or food particles. Make sure it’s completely dry before using the air fryer again.
3. What’s the best way to remove baked-on grease?
Create a paste with baking soda and water, apply it to the greasy areas, and let it sit for 20-30 minutes. Then gently scrub with a soft brush or non-abrasive sponge.
4. How often should I deep clean my air fryer?
Deep clean your air fryer about once a month, or more frequently if you use it often or cook greasy foods.
5. Can I use oven cleaner on my air fryer?
No, oven cleaners are too harsh and can damage the non-stick coating of your air fryer. Stick to mild dish soap and baking soda for tough stains.
6. Why is my air fryer smoking during use?
Smoking usually indicates excess grease buildup. Give your air fryer a thorough cleaning, paying special attention to the heating element and any hidden grease deposits.
7. Is it safe to submerge my air fryer in water?
Never submerge the main unit of your air fryer in water as it contains electrical components. Only the removable parts like the basket and tray can be washed with water.
8. How do I clean between the mesh wires of my air fryer basket?
An old toothbrush is perfect for getting between mesh wires. For stubborn residue, soak the basket first in hot, soapy water to loosen the debris.
9. What should I do if my air fryer still smells after cleaning?
Run the empty air fryer for 3-5 minutes at 400°F to burn off any remaining residue. You can also leave baking soda in the basket overnight to absorb odors.
10. How do I prevent food from sticking to my air fryer basket?
Lightly spray or brush the basket with a small amount of oil before cooking. You can also use parchment paper liners or silicone basket liners designed for air fryers.
User Reviews Summary: What People Say About Air Fryer Cleaning
Common Positive Feedback:
- “Regular quick cleaning makes deep cleaning so much easier”
- “Baking soda paste works wonders on tough stains”
- “Parchment liners have been a game-changer for easy cleanup”
- “Soaking the basket right after cooking makes food come right off”
Common Negative Feedback:
- “The non-stick coating started peeling after using the dishwasher too often”
- “Hard to clean between the mesh wires of the basket”
- “Difficult to reach the heating element for proper cleaning”
- “Special air fryer cleaning sprays are expensive and unnecessary”
Recommended Products for Air Fryer Maintenance
Note: The following links are affiliate links, and we may receive a commission for purchases made through these links at no additional cost to you.
- Silicone Air Fryer Liners – Reusable, non-stick liners that make cleanup a breeze
- Soft Bristle Cleaning Brushes Set – Perfect for getting into crevices without damaging non-stick surfaces
- Microfiber Cleaning Cloths – Gentle yet effective for wiping down all air fryer surfaces
- Arm & Hammer Baking Soda – Essential for tackling tough, baked-on residue
- Parchment Paper Liners – Pre-cut to fit most air fryer baskets for single-use convenience
Conclusion
A clean air fryer is essential for delicious, healthy meals and the longevity of your appliance. By following the simple steps outlined in this guide-from quick daily wipes to monthly deep cleans-you’ll ensure your air fryer continues to perform at its best for years to come.
Remember that regular maintenance is much easier than dealing with baked-on grease and stubborn stains. Make cleaning part of your cooking routine, and you’ll spend less time scrubbing and more time enjoying the delicious, crispy foods your air fryer creates.