What Is The Best Way To Clean A Air Fryer: Pro Tips

Unplug the air fryer, cool, wipe, soak parts, then rinse and dry.

If you’ve ever wondered what is the best way to clean a air fryer, you’re in the right place. I test and clean these gadgets every week in my kitchen. This guide shows you quick daily care and deep-clean steps that actually work. You’ll learn what to use, what to avoid, and how to keep food tasting great while your air fryer runs like new.

Why a clean air fryer matters

If you ask what is the best way to clean a air fryer, start with why it matters. Built-up grease hurts taste and can smoke. It can also stress the heating element and fan. Clean parts last longer and keep nonstick coatings safe.

I’ve seen baskets chip early due to harsh tools and long soaks. A simple routine prevents that. Small steps after each cook beat long scrubbing later.

Tools and supplies you need

You do not need fancy kits for what is the best way to clean a air fryer. Basic, gentle tools work best.

Soft sponge or microfiber cloth safe for nonstick
Soft brush or old toothbrush for crevices
Mild dish soap
Warm water
Baking soda for stuck spots
White vinegar or lemon for odors
Paper towels or a lint-free towel
Cotton swabs for tight areas

Tip from experience: Keep a small brush in the drawer with your liners. You’ll use it more if it’s close.

Step-by-step: the 5-minute daily clean

Here’s what is the best way to clean a air fryer after most meals. Do this while the mess is fresh.

Unplug and cool
Wait until it’s warm, not hot. Safety first.
Remove crumb tray and basket
Knock loose crumbs into the trash.
Soak removable parts
Place basket, tray, and rack in warm, soapy water for 5–10 minutes.
Wipe and rinse
Use a soft sponge. Rinse well to remove soap. Dry fully.
Clean the inside
Wipe the inner chamber with a damp, soapy cloth. Then wipe again with clean water. Dry with a towel.
Wipe the outside
A quick wipe removes oil mist and fingerprints.
Reassemble
Make sure all parts are fully dry to protect the electronics and finish.

This is what is the best way to clean a air fryer for daily upkeep. It prevents smoke and keeps food tasting crisp.

Deep clean: burnt-on grease and odors

For stuck, brown residue, what is the best way to clean a air fryer is gentle but thorough.

Baskets, racks, and trays

Soak longer in hot, soapy water, 15–30 minutes.
Use a baking soda paste (3 parts baking soda, 1 part water). Spread on greasy spots. Wait 10 minutes. Wipe with a soft sponge.
Rinse very well. Dry right away.

Interior chamber

Wipe with a cloth dipped in warm water with a little dish soap.
For odors, wipe with a mix of 1 cup water and 1 tablespoon white vinegar or lemon juice. Do not pour liquids into the unit.
Dry with a clean towel and air-dry with the basket out.

Persistent smells

Sprinkle a little baking soda on a damp cloth. Wipe the basket and tray. Rinse and dry.
Air out the unit with the door or drawer open for 30 minutes.

I once tried to “steam clean” by heating water in the basket. That sent moisture toward the fan. Don’t do that. Wipe, soak, and dry instead. It’s safer and works better over time.

Clean the heating element and fan safely

Knowing what is the best way to clean a air fryer coil matters for safety.

Unplug and cool fully.
Turn the unit upside down on a towel for easier access.
Use a soft brush or dry cloth to loosen dry residue on the heating element and fan guard.
Lightly dampen a cloth with a 1:10 vinegar-water mix or soapy water. Wring well so it does not drip. Gently wipe the element area and nearby surfaces.
Never spray cleaner into the unit. Never pour water.
Let the unit air-dry at least 30 minutes before plugging in.

Manufacturers advise keeping moisture away from the motor and electronics. A light wipe and full dry time is enough.

What not to do

Skipping the “don’ts” can undo what is the best way to clean a air fryer.

No steel wool, scouring pads, or abrasive powders. They scratch nonstick.
No oven cleaner or harsh chemicals. They can damage coatings and leave smells.
Don’t soak the main unit. Only removable parts get soaked.
Don’t run the air fryer with liquids in the basket.
Don’t reassemble wet parts. Moisture can cause odors and wear.

I once left a basket soaking overnight. The edge coating dulled. Short soaks work better and protect the finish.

Care tips by air fryer type

Knowing your model shapes what is the best way to clean a air fryer.

Basket-style

Most baskets and crisper trays are dishwasher safe on the top rack, but hand washing extends life.
Remove crumbs daily to prevent smoke.

Oven-style with racks

Pull out racks and the drip tray after each cook. Soak and wipe.
Clean the glass door with a damp cloth. Dry to avoid streaks.

Rotisserie or skewers

Soak right away. Use a brush on joints and corners.

PTFE vs ceramic nonstick

Both need soft tools and mild soap.
Ceramic can stain if not cleaned soon after cooking sauces. Clean while warm, not hot.

How often should you clean?

The honest answer to what is the best way to clean a air fryer includes timing.

After every use

Empty crumbs, wipe the basket and tray, and spot-clean the chamber.

Weekly

Deep-clean removable parts if you cook often.
Wipe the heating element area if you see residue.

Monthly

Full deep clean: baskets, racks, drip tray, interior, vents.
Check screws, handles, and feet for stability.

Heavy use means more frequent cleaning. Light use can follow a slower rhythm. Look for smoke, smells, or sticky feel—that means it’s time.

Troubleshooting stains, residue, and smoke

If you still ask what is the best way to clean a air fryer when issues pop up, try this.

Stains that won’t lift

Use a second baking soda paste round.
Let it sit longer. Wipe gently. Rinse well.

Sticky residue

Warm soapy soak plus a soft brush for corners.
Repeat in short cycles rather than one harsh scrub.

Smoke during cooking

Remove excess oil and crumbs.
Use a drip tray and avoid aerosol sprays that can leave residues.
Clean the heating element area with a dry brush, then a barely damp cloth.

Odors that linger

Wipe with diluted vinegar or lemon water.
Air out with the basket open.
Cook a “test” batch of plain potato wedges to absorb odors, then wash again.

Pro tips to keep it cleaner longer

These small habits support what is the best way to clean a air fryer.

Use parchment liners made for air fryers to catch drips.
Pat proteins dry and use just enough oil.
Shake the basket mid-cook to prevent burnt bits.
Avoid sugary glazes until the final minutes. They burn fast.
Keep a small “clean kit” in the drawer: sponge, brush, cloth, and a tiny baking soda jar.

In my kitchen, liners and quick soaks cut cleaning time in half. The inside still looks new after a year.

Frequently Asked Questions of what is the best way to clean a air fryer

Can I put air fryer parts in the dishwasher?

Many baskets, trays, and racks are top-rack dishwasher safe. Hand washing is gentler and will help nonstick parts last longer.

How do I clean the air fryer heating element?

Unplug, cool, and turn the unit upside down. Use a soft brush, then a barely damp cloth, and let it dry fully before use.

What removes burnt-on grease best?

A warm, soapy soak followed by a baking soda paste works well. Let the paste sit for 10 minutes, then wipe with a soft sponge.

Is vinegar safe for cleaning an air fryer?

Yes, in a diluted mix on a cloth to wipe surfaces. Do not spray vinegar into the unit or pour liquids inside.

How often should I deep clean?

If you cook daily, deep clean weekly and do a full interior wipe monthly. Light users can deep clean every 2–4 weeks.

Can I use metal tools or steel wool?

No. They can scratch and ruin nonstick coatings. Use soft sponges and brushes only.

What if my air fryer still smells after cleaning?

Wipe with diluted vinegar or lemon water, then air-dry. Cook a small batch of plain potatoes to absorb odors and wash the basket again.

Conclusion

Clean gear cooks better food. Now you know what is the best way to clean a air fryer with fast daily steps and safe deep-clean methods. Use gentle tools, short soaks, and careful drying to protect the nonstick and the electronics. Your food will taste fresher and your air fryer will last longer.

Try the 5-minute clean after your next cook. Then set a weekly deep-clean reminder. Want more kitchen-tested tips? Subscribe for new guides, or drop your questions in the comments.