Best Way To Clean Inside Of Air Fryer: Quick, Safe Steps

Unplug, cool, soak parts in soapy water, wipe interior, clean heating element gently.

If you want food that tastes great and an air fryer that lasts, you need a method that actually works. I’ve tested and refined the best way to clean inside of air fryer so you can remove grease, protect the coating, and keep it smelling fresh without guesswork. Stick with me, and you’ll learn safe, fast steps backed by real use and expert care.

Why a clean air fryer interior matters

Grease builds up fast in high heat. That buildup can smoke, smell, and even change the taste of fries or wings. A clean interior also protects the nonstick coating and keeps heat flow steady.

Knowing the best way to clean inside of air fryer keeps it efficient and safe. It lowers fire risk, stops odors, and helps your meals cook evenly. This small habit can add years to your appliance.

What you need before you start

Having the right tools makes cleaning easy and safe. Most makers warn against harsh tools or chemicals.

Gather these:

• Microfiber cloths for gentle wiping
• Soft sponge or non-scratch scrub pad for the basket and tray
• Nylon brush or old soft toothbrush for corners and the coil area
• Mild dish soap to cut grease
• Baking soda for stuck-on spots
• White vinegar or lemon for odor control
• Wooden skewer or toothpicks for crevices
• Paper towels to catch drips
• Warm water in a sink or tub

Avoid these:

• Steel wool or metal brushes that scratch nonstick
• Oven cleaner or bleach that can damage coatings
• Submerging the main unit or getting water inside the vents

Before you try the best way to clean inside of air fryer, check your manual. Some baskets are dishwasher safe, but many coatings last longer with gentle hand washing.

Step-by-step: the best way to clean inside of air fryer

Here is the best way to clean inside of air fryer, step by step. It takes less than 15 minutes after dinner.

1. Unplug and cool
   Let it cool for 15 to 30 minutes. This protects you and keeps the coating from warping when hit with water.

2. Remove parts
   Take out the basket, tray, and any crisper plate. Tap crumbs into the trash.

3. Soak parts
   Fill the sink with warm, soapy water. Soak the basket and tray for 10 minutes to loosen grease.

4. Wipe the interior
   Dampen a microfiber cloth with warm, soapy water. Wipe the walls, corners, and door or lid area. Keep water away from the fan and vents.

5. Tackle stuck spots
   Make a paste of baking soda and water. Dab it on burnt bits, wait 10 minutes, then wipe with a soft sponge.

6. Clean the heating element area
   With a slightly damp cloth or soft brush, gently wipe the coil and nearby surfaces. Hold the unit so water does not run into the fan.

7. Rinse and dry parts
   Rinse the basket and tray. Dry all parts well with a towel to prevent water spots and rust.

8. Reassemble and dry cycle
   Put the unit back together. Run it empty at 350°F for 3 to 5 minutes to dry any hidden moisture.

Pro tips from my kitchen:

• Work from top to bottom so drips fall onto areas you have not cleaned yet.
• For tough corners, wrap a cloth around a wooden skewer.
• This is still the best way to clean inside of air fryer for daily use. Keep it simple and gentle.

Deep-clean for burnt-on grease and odors

Over time, some grime needs more help. These safe methods lift heavy buildup without harm.

Baking soda paste method

• Mix baking soda with a few drops of water into a thick paste.
• Spread on stains inside the basket or tray. Wait 15 minutes.
• Wipe with a damp sponge, then rinse and dry.

For baked-on grease, the best way to clean inside of air fryer is a baking soda paste on cool surfaces. It is gentle, yet it breaks down polymerized oil.

Vinegar or lemon steam refresh

• Place a small oven-safe bowl with 1 cup of water and 2 tablespoons of vinegar or lemon juice in the basket.
• Run at 300°F for 5 minutes, then unplug and cool.
• Wipe down the loosened film with a microfiber cloth.

If odors linger, another best way to clean inside of air fryer is a lemon-vinegar steam to loosen film and deodorize.

When to repeat

If the interior feels tacky after wiping, repeat once. Do not scrub hard. Pressure can thin nonstick coatings.

Heating element and fan care

The coil area needs careful cleaning. Too much water can damage the fan or motor.

• Unplug and ensure the unit is fully cool.
• Tilt the air fryer so you can see the coil.
• Use a soft brush to lift crumbs and dry debris.
• Wipe with a barely damp cloth, then a dry cloth.
• If needed, use compressed air in short bursts to clear dust from vents.

When caring for the coil, the best way to clean inside of air fryer is gentle, dry first, then damp, then dry again. Never spray cleaner directly on the coil.

A simple routine that keeps it like new

Small habits stop big messes. This routine keeps grease from becoming sticky varnish.

After every cook:

• Unplug, cool, and wipe the interior with a warm, soapy cloth.
• Soak the basket and tray while you eat, then rinse and dry.
• Run a 3-minute dry cycle to clear moisture.

Weekly:

• Do a vinegar or lemon steam refresh.
• Brush crumbs from the coil area.

Monthly:

• Use a baking soda paste on any dark spots.
• Check the plug and cord for wear.

A routine locks in the best way to clean inside of air fryer and saves time. Use this five-minute plan as the best way to clean inside of air fryer after dinner, and you will skip heavy scrubbing later.

Mistakes to avoid and safety checks

A few common missteps can ruin the finish or shorten the life of your unit.

• Do not use steel wool or sharp tools on nonstick surfaces.
• Do not soak the main unit or pour water into vents.
• Do not clean while hot; rapid cooling can warp thin metal.
• Do not spray aerosol cleaners inside; residue can smoke.
• Do not ignore the cord and plug; wipe them dry and check for damage.

Skip shortcuts that claim a fast fix; the best way to clean inside of air fryer is steady and safe. Gentle methods protect the coating and your food.

Frequently Asked Questions of best way to clean inside of air fryer

Can I put the basket and tray in the dishwasher?

Many baskets and trays are dishwasher safe, but hand washing extends the nonstick life. Check your manual first, then choose the gentle cycle if you use a dishwasher.

How do I clean the heating element without damage?

Use a soft brush and a barely damp cloth on a cool unit. Keep water away from the fan and finish with a dry wipe.

What removes burnt-on grease the best?

A baking soda paste is safe and effective on tough spots. Let it sit, then wipe and rinse without heavy scrubbing.

Is vinegar safe on the interior?

Yes, diluted vinegar helps cut grease and odors. Avoid soaking surfaces and always rinse and dry.

How often should I deep-clean?

Do a light clean after each use and a deep-clean every one to two weeks, depending on use. Heavy frying may need more frequent care.

What if my air fryer smells even after cleaning?

Run a vinegar or lemon steam, then dry cycle. If the smell remains, clean the coil area again and check for trapped crumbs.

Can I use oven cleaner or bleach?

No. Harsh chemicals can pit or strip the coating and leave unsafe residue. Stick to mild soap, baking soda, and vinegar.

What is the fastest safe daily routine?

Wipe the interior with warm, soapy water, soak parts while you eat, then dry. The best way to clean inside of air fryer between cooks is short, gentle care.

Conclusion

Clean food tastes better, cooks better, and makes your air fryer last longer. Now you know the best way to clean inside of air fryer with simple tools and a fast routine. Start tonight: soak the parts while you eat, wipe the interior, and run a short dry cycle. Want more tips like this? Subscribe, share your results, or leave a question and I’ll help you dial in your routine.