Cleaning Benefits
We all know that the air fryer is the modern workhorse of the kitchen—even with little to no oil, it crisps up food as it cooks it, which makes for a fried experience without any of the negative health benefits. But in order for your air fryer to continue to work optimally, it’s important to clean it correctly and regularly. If you’re an air fryer owner, you probably have a few questions regarding the cleaning process: Which parts need to be hand washed versus cleansed in the dishwasher? Can you get the main unit wet? And, of course, how can you remove stubborn, burnt-on debris from the basket? To help, we tapped air fryer expert Isla Zoey of Air Fryer Mag and Kaitlyn Hebert, the global head of marketing at appliance company Ninja, for their advice.
I’ve noticed in my own kitchen that a clean air fryer not only cooks food more evenly but also prevents that faint smoky smell that can linger when grease builds up. Regular cleaning also extends the lifespan of the appliance—considering how often I use mine for quick dinners, that’s a big deal. Studies from appliance manufacturers suggest that neglecting maintenance can reduce an air fryer’s efficiency by up to 20% over time, which means your food might not crisp up as well. Plus, keeping it clean reduces the risk of cross-contamination between dishes, especially if you’re cooking something like fish one night and fries the next.
Why It’s Important to Clean Your Air Fryer
It’s tempting to simply tuck in the basket and call it a day after you use your air fryer, but it’s important to remove food residue and oil quickly; wait too long, and those things build up, resulting in a mess that becomes difficult to get rid of. According to Herbert, regular cleaning helps prevent this buildup—and in turn, helps your machine perform better when you use it.
I learned this the hard way when I let grease sit in my air fryer basket for a couple of days—yep, it was a pain to scrub off! Beyond performance, there’s a safety angle too: built-up grease can become a fire hazard in extreme cases, especially since air fryers operate at high temperatures. A quick clean after each use takes maybe five minutes, and it saves you from dealing with caked-on grime later. Experts also point out that clean air fryers maintain better air circulation, which is key to that crispy texture we all love.
How Often to Clean Your Air Fryer
The unit, along with any baskets and crisper plates, should be thoroughly cleaned after every use. Most air fryer baskets, crisper plates, and other accessories are dishwasher-safe, says Herbert—but with baskets in particular, hand-washing is best, since it will ultimately extend the life of the piece.
I get it—popping parts in the dishwasher is tempting when you’re tired after cooking. But I’ve found that hand-washing with a soft sponge really does make a difference in keeping the non-stick coating intact. Dishwashers can be harsh on delicate surfaces over time, and some brands note that repeated dishwasher use can wear down coatings by about 30% faster than gentle hand-washing. If you’re like me and use your air fryer almost daily, taking that extra minute to hand-wash is worth it to keep it in top shape for years.
Preparing Your Air Fryer for Cleaning
After you finish cooking, the air fry basket and crisper plate will be very hot. Herbert recommends starting the cleaning process by unplugging the air fryer and letting the unit cool. Once it is no longer hot to the touch, remove the basket with the crisper plate and run them under cool water; be sure to remove the crisper plate at this time (don’t leave it in the machine). As you prepare your air fryer for cleaning, you might start thinking about popping those dishwasher-safe items into your machine to save some time. While this won’t necessarily damage your air fryer’s parts, a manual approach will result in the deepest clean: “I always prefer a manual cleaning with warm soapy water as it helps to break down the food particles and excessive grease on the parts, especially on the basket,” says Zoey. “A few gentle scrubs ensure thorough and safe cleaning.”
One trick I’ve picked up is to let the basket soak for a few minutes right after cooling—it makes scrubbing so much easier, especially for sticky bits like melted cheese. Also, running cool water over the parts helps loosen debris before you even start cleaning, cutting down on elbow grease. If you’re worried about water pooling in crevices, just give the parts a good shake or pat them dry with a clean towel before reassembling. This small step can prevent rust or mold in hard-to-reach spots, which I’ve seen happen with neglected appliances.
Materials Needed
Be sure you have the following items on hand before you begin cleaning your air fryer:
- Warm water
- Dish soap
- Gentle, non-abrasive sponge
You probably already have these items in your kitchen, which makes this process super budget-friendly—no need for fancy cleaners! I like using a sponge with a soft side and a slightly textured side for tougher spots, but nothing too abrasive. If you’re out of dish soap, a tiny drop of vinegar mixed with water can work in a pinch for cutting grease, though I’d stick to soap for regular use since it’s gentler on the air fryer’s surfaces.
How to Clean Your Air Fryer, Step by Step
Keeping your appliances clean will ensure that they will work properly for as long as possible. According to Zoey, these are the steps to take in order to clean your air fryer.
Step 1: Unplug the Air Fryer
First, unplug the air fryer from the power source; let it cool down. This cool-down period gives internal components time to rest and saves you from any potential harm during the cleaning process.
I can’t stress enough how important this step is—I once tried to wipe down a still-warm air fryer and nearly burned my hand! Letting it cool for about 20-30 minutes also gives you time to prep your cleaning supplies or tackle other kitchen tasks. This step is especially crucial for models with digital displays, as heat can make them more sensitive to accidental water damage during cleaning.
Step 2: Remove Detachable Parts and Clean
Carefully remove the detachable parts, like the basket, tray, crisper plate, and any others. Not sure which parts you should remove and clean? Refer to your user manual—and always heed the manufacturer’s cleaning guidelines, which will also indicate which pieces are safe to go into the dishwasher. If the removable parts are not dishwasher safe, put them into a mixture of warm water with dish soap. Let them soak for 30 minutes, then gently scrub them using a sponge to dislodge any debris or burnt food. Never immerse your air fryer’s main unit in water. It contains sensitive electrical components that become damaged when exposed to water; this will short your machine and render it unusable.
I’ve found that soaking for even just 10-15 minutes can loosen most gunk, especially if you’re dealing with something like burnt-on sauce. If you’re short on time, a quick trick is to add a drop of dish soap directly to the sponge and scrub gently under running water. Also, check your manual for any specific coatings on your basket—some non-stick surfaces can be damaged by prolonged soaking, so don’t overdo it!
Step 3: Clean the Interior Surface
While the removable components are either soaking or in the dishwasher, use a sponge or damp cloth to wipe the interior surface to remove any food residue or stubborn debris. Avoid any abrasive cleaners or intense chemicals that can damage an air fryer.
I like to use a barely damp cloth for the interior to avoid any water seeping into the heating elements. If you notice stubborn spots, a tiny bit of baking soda on the cloth can help lift them without scratching—just be sure to wipe it clean afterward. This step is also a good time to check for any loose crumbs that might affect the fan’s performance over time.
Step 4: Clean the Exterior Surface
The exterior should also be cleaned with a damp cloth, wipe, or sponge. Don’t forget the control panel and any additional buttons; leaving debris inside will ultimately lead to unresponsive controls.
I’ve noticed that the control panel can get surprisingly grimy from oily fingers during cooking. A quick wipe with a slightly damp microfiber cloth works wonders and keeps the buttons responsive. If you’re obsessive like me, you might also wipe down the cord to keep it free of dust or grease splatter—it’s a small thing, but it keeps the whole unit looking pristine.
Safe and Effective Cleaning Products for Your Air Fryer
When cleaning your air fryer, stick to just a few basic ingredients: soap, water, and a very soft sponge to prevent scratching. If these materials aren’t cutting it, extend the soaking time. “If food residue is stuck on the basket or crisper plate, soak them in the sink with warm, soapy water until it is easy to remove the residue,” says Herbert, noting to always clean the main unit and the control panel by “simply wiping them down with a damp, non-abrasive cloth.”
I’ve tried a bunch of cleaning hacks, and honestly, simple dish soap like Dawn works best for cutting through grease without leaving a residue. For tough stains, letting the parts soak a bit longer—say, an hour—can save you from aggressive scrubbing that might damage the non-stick coating. If you’re eco-conscious, look for plant-based dish soaps; they’re just as effective and a bit kinder to the environment.
Safety Measures to Consider When Cleaning Your Air Fryer
The biggest safety concern regarding air fryer cleaning is burns. According to Herbert, after cooking, the air fry basket and crisper plate will be ultra-hot (think about how high your machine can go—upwards of 400 degrees Fahrenheit). To be safe, she always recommends unplugging the unit and letting it fully cool before you begin cleaning.
I once made the mistake of handling a hot crisper plate and ended up with a nasty burn—lesson learned! Beyond burns, be mindful of water near the main unit. Even a small splash can mess with the electronics, and repairs aren’t cheap. If you’re cleaning right after cooking, set a timer for 30 minutes to remind yourself to let it cool fully—it’s a simple way to stay safe and avoid rushing.
Frequently Asked Questions
I know what products I should use to clean my air fryer—but which products should I avoid?
Only use air-fryer safe products, like sponges or gentle cleaning liquids (like dish soap)—you don’t need multi-purpose sprays or anything stronger. According to Zoey, avoid abrasive cleaning pads or harsh chemical substances that may make your air fryer shine in the short term, but compromise its durability down the line.
How can I clean my air fryer’s buttons?
Take care when you clean an air fryer’s buttons and control panels; too much water could cause electrical issues. Simply wipe down these areas with a damp cloth, no soap needed.
Can I use parchment paper or aluminum foil in my air fryer to keep it cleaner for longer?
Both foil and parchment paper are safe to use inside an air fryer, but stick to the latter; the former could scratch the interior of the machine.
For the FAQ, I’d add that using parchment paper liners specifically designed for air fryers can be a game-changer—they catch drips and make cleanup a breeze. Just make sure they’re perforated to allow air circulation, or you’ll end up with soggy food. Also, if you’re dealing with a really stubborn stain, a paste of baking soda and water can sit on the spot for a few minutes before wiping—works like a charm without harsh chemicals!
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If you’re on a cleaning kick, I’ve found that tackling small appliances like the air fryer alongside others (like my toaster oven) in one go makes the kitchen feel brand new. Check out related tips for keeping your other appliances spotless—it’s amazing how much better everything works when it’s clean!
