Best Way To Clean Air Fryers: Expert Tips And Hacks

Unplug, cool, soak removable parts, wipe inside with mild soap, dry completely.

If you want the best way to clean air fryers, you’re in the right place. I test and clean these units weekly for work and at home. I’ll show you what actually works, what causes damage, and how to keep food tasting great without harsh chemicals. Follow along for clear steps, pro tips, and a routine you can use today.

Why cleaning your air fryer matters more than you think

A clean air fryer cooks faster, tastes better, and lasts longer. Grease buildup can smoke, smell, and even trip thermal sensors. Food residue can also stain nonstick parts and weaken the coating over time.

From manufacturer manuals and food safety guidance, the best way to clean air fryers is simple: mild soap, warm water, soft tools, and care with the heating element. That mix keeps parts safe and your meals crisp.

Tools and supplies you actually need

Keep a small cleaning kit near your sink. Simple tools go a long way.

Soft sponge or non-scratch scrub pad
Microfiber cloths
Soft-bristle brush or old toothbrush
Mild dish soap
Baking soda for a paste
Warm water in a basin or sink
Paper towels for quick wipe-downs
Optional: food-safe degreaser labeled for nonstick

A quick note from experience: steel wool, abrasive powders, and oven cleaners can ruin coatings. If you’re after the best way to clean air fryers without harm, skip them.

The step-by-step: best way to clean air fryers after each use

Use this simple routine. It takes 5 to 10 minutes and prevents deep clean days.

Unplug and cool. Let the unit cool until it’s safe to touch.
Remove parts. Take out the basket, crisper plate, and drawer.
Soak parts. Fill a sink with warm water and mild soap for 10 minutes.
Wipe the interior. Use a damp, soapy cloth on the interior walls. Avoid puddles.
Clean the heating area. Gently wipe around the element with a damp cloth. For caked bits, use a soft brush.
Scrub parts. Use a soft sponge on the basket and plate. No harsh pads.
Rinse and dry. Rinse well. Dry fully with a microfiber cloth.
Reassemble and air-dry. Let the unit sit open for 10 minutes.
Optional quick burn-off. Run empty for 2 to 3 minutes to evaporate moisture if your manual approves.

If food sticks, make a baking soda paste with a little water. Dab, wait 10 minutes, and wipe. This is the best way to clean air fryers when you have stubborn bits but want to protect the coating.

Deep clean for heavy grease and lingering smells

When you cook fatty foods or marinades, plan a deeper clean every few uses.

Pull the basket and crisper plate. Soak longer, about 20 to 30 minutes.
Use a baking soda paste on sticky corners and grate lines.
For the interior, wipe with a warm, soapy cloth. Rinse the cloth, then wipe again with plain water.
Flip the unit gently if safe and wipe the heating area with a damp cloth. Do not pour liquid inside.
Dry with a microfiber cloth and let it sit open before use.

Some people run lemon water inside to steam. Many manuals do not allow this. If you want to try it, check your manual first. The best way to clean air fryers is to keep liquid out of the main unit.

Clean each part the right way

The best way to clean air fryers is to handle each piece with care.

Basket and crisper plate: Warm soapy soak, soft sponge, baking soda on tough spots, rinse, dry.
Drawer: Wipe edges and rails; grease hides here.
Heating element area: Use a damp cloth and soft brush. Never spray straight cleaner into it.
Exterior and display: Wipe with a barely damp microfiber cloth. Dry right away to avoid streaks.
Filters or splatter shields: If removable, wash gently and dry fully. If not removable, wipe in place.

My tip: use a silicone brush to reach grooves. It grabs grease without scratching.

Mistakes to avoid that wreck nonstick

If you want the best way to clean air fryers without damage, skip these:

Metal scouring pads or abrasive powders
Oven cleaner or bleach
Soaking the main unit or spraying inside vents
Putting non-dishwasher-safe parts in a hot dishwasher
Using sharp tools on stuck food
Reassembling while damp

I learned the hard way that a single abrasive scrub can dull nonstick and cause sticking forever. Keep it gentle.

Natural cleaners vs. commercial products

Mild dish soap and warm water do most of the work. Baking soda paste helps with baked-on bits. Vinegar can help on mineral spots, but use it diluted and keep it off bare aluminum. Many commercial degreasers are fine if they say food-safe and nonstick-safe.

For the best way to clean air fryers day to day, stick to soap and soft tools. Save stronger products for rare heavy jobs and test in a small spot first.

A simple upkeep schedule that sticks

Set a routine so your air fryer never gets out of hand.

After each use: Quick wipe of the interior and wash the basket and plate.
Weekly or every 3 to 5 cooks: Deeper clean of rails, corners, and under the heating area.
Monthly: Check screws, feet, cord, and filters or shields if your model has them.

This is the best way to clean air fryers without spending your weekend scrubbing. Short, steady care beats a big, messy job.

Troubleshooting smoke, smells, and sticky parts

A few fast fixes save a lot of stress.

Smoke during cooking: Excess grease or crumbs under the element. Do a deep clean and use a drip tray or liner with holes.
Bad odors: Old oil on the basket. Soak longer, then use a baking soda paste. Dry fully.
White film or water spots: Rinse better and dry with a microfiber cloth.
Sticky basket: Coating wear or baked-on sugar. Use a gentle paste and avoid high-sugar marinades without a liner.

The best way to clean air fryers when you see smoke is to pause, cool, and wipe grease from the heater area. It works fast.

Safety and warranty smart checks

Always read your model’s care section. Some parts are dishwasher-safe on the top rack only. Some liners void warranties. Never immerse the main unit. Unplug before you clean. Keep cleaners off wires, sensors, and the control panel.

The safest, best way to clean air fryers is to follow the maker’s guide and use mild tools. When in doubt, go gentle.

Eco-friendly and time-saving hacks I swear by

These tiny habits make a big difference.

Line the basket with parchment liners with holes to reduce mess. Do not block airflow.
Toss the basket into warm soapy water right after serving. Stuck bits lift on their own.
Keep a labeled “air fryer cloth” near the outlet. Wipe as soon as it cools.
Use a silicone bottle brush for vents and rails.

Small steps like these seal the best way to clean air fryers into your normal routine.

Frequently Asked Questions of best way to clean air fryers

How often should I clean my air fryer?

Do a quick clean after every cook and a deeper clean every few uses. This prevents smoke, smells, and buildup.

Can I put the basket and tray in the dishwasher?

Many are top-rack safe, but check your manual. Hand washing with a soft sponge helps nonstick last longer.

What removes burnt-on grease without scratching?

Use a baking soda paste and a soft brush. Let it sit for 10 minutes, then wipe and rinse.

Is it safe to clean the heating element?

Yes, but be careful. Unplug, cool, and wipe with a damp cloth. Do not pour water or spray cleaner into the element.

Will liners help keep my air fryer clean?

Yes, use parchment liners with holes to keep airflow. They cut cleanup time and protect the basket.

Can I use vinegar inside the air fryer?

Use diluted vinegar on removable parts if needed, then rinse well. Avoid soaking the main unit or leaving vinegar on bare metal.

Conclusion

You now have a clear plan and the best way to clean air fryers without stress. Keep it simple: unplug, cool, soak parts, wipe gently, and dry well. Small, steady steps protect the coating, stop smoke, and keep flavors bright. Put this routine to work today and enjoy crisp results with less mess. Want more helpful kitchen guides like this? Subscribe, share your questions, or leave a comment with your top cleaning tip.