How To Clean An Air Fryer The Right Way

Keeping your air fryer clean isn’t just about looks—it’s about performance, safety, and taste too. A little buildup of grease or food particles inside can affect how well your meals cook, and over time, it might even lead to smoke or strange smells. If you're like most people, you probably use your air fryer a few times a week, maybe even daily. That means it needs a little love between uses. The good news? Cleaning it doesn’t have to be a chore if you know how to do it right. Let’s walk through the simple steps to keep your air fryer looking and working like new.

Maybe you’ve already tried wiping it down a couple times but still notice some stubborn stains or a lingering smell after cooking. That’s totally normal, especially if you're making things like breaded chicken or anything with sauces. The high heat inside the air fryer can cause bits of food to stick, and over time, that can get tricky to remove. But don’t worry—we’ve got a method that makes it easy, using things you probably already have in your kitchen.

Think of this like a mini spa day for your air fryer. You’ll be surprised how much better it works once it’s clean and free of old grease or gunk. Plus, it’s a quick job that takes just a few minutes if you do it regularly. So, are you ready to give your air fryer the refresh it deserves? Let’s start with a quick overview of what you’ll need and the steps ahead.

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Table of Contents

• What You’ll Need to Clean Your Air Fryer
• Step-by-Step Guide to Clean Your Air Fryer
• Tips for Maintaining a Clean Air Fryer
• Frequently Asked Questions

What You’ll Need to Clean Your Air Fryer

Before diving in, gather your cleaning supplies. You don’t need anything fancy—just a few everyday items:

• Warm soapy water
• Soft sponge or cloth
• Mild dish soap
• Baking soda (for tough stains)
• Vinegar (optional, for deep cleaning)
• Soft-bristle brush or toothbrush

Most parts of your air fryer can be washed with just warm water and soap, but for those stubborn spots, baking soda or vinegar can help loosen the grime. If you're wondering why you shouldn’t use harsh scrubbers or steel wool, it’s because they can scratch the non-stick surfaces and make future cleaning harder. So, stick to soft tools to protect your appliance.

Also, check your air fryer manual to see if any parts are dishwasher safe. Some baskets and trays can go in the dishwasher, but the main unit should never get submerged in water or go through the dishwasher cycle. Always unplug your air fryer before cleaning, and wait until it’s cool to the touch to avoid burns.

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Step-by-Step Guide to Clean Your Air Fryer

Now that you've got your supplies ready, let’s walk through the cleaning process step by step. It’s easier than you might think, and doing it regularly will help your air fryer last longer.

1. Unplug and Cool Down

This one might seem obvious, but it’s worth repeating—always unplug your air fryer before cleaning. It’s not just about safety, it’s also about giving the appliance time to cool. Trying to clean a hot air fryer can be uncomfortable and even risky, so give it at least 30 minutes after use before starting.

2. Remove the Basket and Tray

Most air fryers have a basket and tray that slide out for easy access. Take them out and set them aside. Some models have non-stick coatings, so be gentle when handling them. If there’s visible food stuck to the basket, don’t panic—we’ll get to that in the next step.

3. Soak and Scrub

Fill your sink with warm, soapy water and place the basket and tray inside. Let them soak for 10–15 minutes to loosen any stuck-on bits. While they’re soaking, you can move on to the next step.

4. Clean the Interior

Use a soft sponge or cloth to wipe down the inside of the air fryer. If there’s gunk that won’t come off easily, make a paste with baking soda and water. Apply it to the affected areas and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, gently scrub with a soft brush or sponge. Baking soda is great because it’s gentle but effective, and it won’t damage the surfaces.

5. Tackle the Exterior

Wipe down the outside of the air fryer with a damp cloth. If you’ve been using it often, there might be grease splatters or fingerprints. A quick wipe with a bit of soapy water should do the trick. Avoid using harsh chemicals or sprays, as they can leave behind residues that might affect the machine’s performance or your food’s taste.

6. Dry Everything Thoroughly

Before putting everything back together, make sure all parts are completely dry. You can air dry them or use a clean towel. Moisture left inside the air fryer can cause rust or mold over time, so this step is important even if it feels a bit tedious.

Tips for Maintaining a Clean Air Fryer

Now that you’ve got the cleaning basics down, here are a few tricks to keep your air fryer in top shape between deep cleans.

• Wipe it down after every use. Even a quick once-over with a damp cloth can prevent buildup from getting stubborn.
• Line your basket with parchment paper. This helps prevent food from sticking and makes cleanup easier. Just be sure the paper isn’t too close to the heating element.
• Avoid cooking overly greasy foods without a tray. Some recipes drip a lot of oil, so using a tray or tray liner can help catch the mess before it sticks.
• Don’t skip the baking soda paste. If you notice any burnt bits or stains, treat them early before they get worse.

Also, pay attention to the corners and crevices of the air fryer. These spots can trap small bits of food or grease and become a breeding ground for bacteria if left uncleaned. A toothbrush can be super handy for reaching into those tight spaces. And if you use your air fryer often, you might want to give it a deep clean once a week to keep it in tip-top shape.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I put my air fryer basket in the dishwasher?

Some baskets are dishwasher safe, but always check your manual first. If it’s labeled as dishwasher-safe, go ahead and place it on the top rack. If not, stick to hand washing to protect the non-stick coating and avoid damage.

How often should I clean my air fryer?

It’s a good idea to give it a quick wipe after every use and do a deeper clean once a week. If you use your air fryer daily, a weekly deep clean will help prevent buildup and keep it running smoothly.

Can I use vinegar to clean my air fryer?

Yes, vinegar is a great natural cleaner. Mix equal parts water and white vinegar and use it to wipe down the interior or soak the basket. It helps dissolve grease and neutralize odors without leaving behind harsh chemical smells.

For more helpful tips on keeping your kitchen appliances in top condition, Learn more about cleaning other gadgets on our site. And if you're curious about the best air fryer models or want to explore accessories that make cleaning easier, check out this page for product recommendations.