What’s The Best Way To Clean An Air Fryer: Expert Tips

Unplug, hand-wash parts with warm soapy water, wipe interior, dry fully.

If you want a spotless, odor-free fryer that cooks like new, you need more than a quick rinse. In my test kitchen, I’ve cleaned dozens of models and learned what’s the best way to clean an air fryer through trial, error, and a few grease mishaps. This guide breaks down proven steps, expert tips, and safe products so you know exactly what’s the best way to clean an air fryer without damaging it.

Why Regular Cleaning Matters

If you’re asking what’s the best way to clean an air fryer, start with the why. Grease and crumbs build up fast. That buildup causes smoke, burnt smells, and uneven cooking. It can even shorten the life of your unit.

Manufacturers advise regular cleaning after each use. Food safety guidance backs that up, since oil residue and stuck food can harbor odors and off flavors. A clean machine heats better, cooks crispier food, and uses less energy.

Tools and Supplies You Need

Having the right tools is part of what’s the best way to clean an air fryer. You do not need harsh chemicals. Keep it simple and safe.

• Mild dish soap. Cuts grease without hurting nonstick coatings.
• Warm water. Helps lift oil and food bits.
• Soft sponge or microfiber cloth. Avoid anything abrasive.
• Nylon brush or soft toothbrush. Great for mesh baskets and corners.
• Baking soda. A gentle scrub for stubborn spots.
• White vinegar or lemon. Helps neutralize odors.
• Paper towels or lint-free towels. For drying parts fully.
  

  
  

Step-by-Step: The Best Way to Clean an Air Fryer

This is what’s the best way to clean an air fryer, step by step. These steps are simple and safe for most models. Always check your manual first.

1. Unplug and cool. Let the unit cool fully before you touch it.
2. Disassemble. Remove the basket, tray, and crisper plate.
3. Dump crumbs. Empty the drawer and shake out loose bits.
4. Soak parts. Fill a sink with warm water and dish soap. Soak the basket and tray for 10 to 15 minutes.
5. Wash gently. Use a soft sponge or nylon brush. Focus on the mesh and corners.
6. Rinse and dry. Rinse with warm water. Dry well with a towel.
7. Wipe the interior. Use a damp cloth with a drop of soap. Do not pour water into the base.
8. Clean the heating element. Turn the unit upside down. Wipe the coil with a damp cloth. If needed, use a soft brush to lift carbon. Dry fully.
9. Wipe the exterior. A damp cloth is enough. Dry to prevent streaks.
10. Reassemble and air-dry. Let parts air-dry. If your manual allows, run the fryer empty for 2 to 3 minutes to burn off any moisture.

Personal tip: I once scratched a basket with steel wool. It ruined the coating and made sticking worse. Gentle tools matter.

Deep-Cleaning Burnt Grease and Odors

Sometimes grease bakes on. If you want what’s the best way to clean an air fryer in that state, you need a deeper approach. Avoid harsh oven cleaners and bleach.

• Baking soda paste. Mix baking soda with a little water. Spread on greasy spots. Let sit 10 minutes. Wipe with a damp sponge.
• Warm soak round two. For thick residue, soak the basket and tray again with fresh soapy water. Use a nylon brush to lift grime.
• Odor reset. Wipe interior with a cloth dipped in diluted vinegar. Then wipe with plain water and dry.
• Stuck-on carbon near the coil. Use a soft brush, not a scraper. Work slow. Keep water away from wiring and controls.

If a smell lingers, cook a test batch of potato slices with a bit of lemon juice. It helps pull leftover odors.

Cleaning Specific Parts: Basket, Tray, and Heating Element

People often ask what’s the best way to clean an air fryer basket and plate. The trick is to protect the coating and get into the mesh.

• Basket and crisper plate. Soak, then scrub with a nylon brush. Rinse well. Dry fully so it stays slick.
• Nonstick care. No steel wool. No abrasive powders. These scratch and shorten the life of the pan.
• Heating element. When cool, invert the unit. Wipe the coil with a damp cloth. For carbon, use a soft brush. Dry it before use.
• Drawer and interior walls. Wipe with a damp, soapy cloth. Follow with a clean damp cloth. Dry to prevent spots.

Real-life note: I clean the coil every few weeks. It cuts smoke by a lot when I cook fatty foods.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Knowing what not to do is part of what’s the best way to clean an air fryer. These mistakes can cause damage or void a warranty.

• Soaking the base. The base has electrical parts. Never submerge it.
• Using abrasive tools. They scratch nonstick coatings.
• Skipping the dry step. Water left on parts can cause smoke or odd smells.
• Dishwashing non-safe parts. Check your manual first.
• Spraying cleaner into vents. Liquids can reach wiring or the fan.
  

  
  

Maintenance Routine and Schedule

A routine is what makes what’s the best way to clean an air fryer doable long term. It keeps the job fast and easy.

• After each cook. Dump crumbs. Wipe the basket and tray. Quick wipe of the interior once it cools.
• Weekly. Full wash of basket, tray, and drawer. Wipe the exterior and handle.
• Monthly. Clean the heating coil. Check vents for buildup.
• As needed. Use baking soda paste for sticky spots. Do an odor reset with vinegar wipe.

This 5-minute habit makes your fryer cook like new and last longer.

Eco-Friendly and Safe Cleaning Options

Many ask what’s the best way to clean an air fryer without harsh chemicals. You can keep it green and still get it clean.

• Baking soda. Gentle scrub for grease and film.
• Vinegar. Great for odor control. Always rinse and dry after.
• Lemon. Natural deodorizer and fresh scent.
• Fragrance-free soap. Avoid strong scents that can linger.
• Microfiber cloths. They lift grease with less soap.

I switched to baking soda and vinegar years ago. My baskets look better and do not smell like cleaner.

Troubleshooting Smells, Smoke, and Performance Issues

When the machine smokes, many wonder what’s the best way to clean an air fryer to fix it. Cleaning is often the cure.

• Smoke during cooking. Grease on the coil or in the drawer is the main cause. Clean the coil and drawer. Trim extra fat. Add a bit of water under the basket when cooking very fatty items, if your manual allows.
• Burnt or plastic smell. New units may off-gas once. Clean all parts and run a short cycle as the manual advises.
• Food not crisping. Airflow is blocked by crumbs or grease. Clean the mesh and vents. Avoid crowding the basket.
• White smoke or steam. Usually water. Dry parts well before use.
• Loud fan or rattling. Check for trapped crumbs near the fan and vents. Unplug first, then clean.

If problems remain, check your manual and support line. Some issues need service.

Frequently Asked Questions of what's the best way to clean an air fryer

How often should I clean it?

Clean the basket and tray after each use. Do a deeper clean, including the heating element, every one to two weeks.

Can I put the basket in the dishwasher?

Many baskets are dishwasher safe, but some are not. Check your manual first, then place it on the top rack if allowed.

What’s the best way to clean an air fryer that smells?

Wash all removable parts with soapy water. Wipe the interior with diluted vinegar, rinse with water, then dry fully.

Is it safe to use baking soda on nonstick?

Yes, baking soda is a gentle abrasive. Use a soft sponge and light pressure to avoid wear.

What’s the best way to clean an air fryer heating element?

Unplug, let it cool, then invert the unit. Wipe the coil with a damp cloth and use a soft brush for carbon, then dry.

Can I use oven cleaner inside my air fryer?

Avoid oven cleaners and bleach. They can damage coatings and leave strong fumes.

What’s the best way to clean an air fryer quickly after cooking?

Dump crumbs, do a warm soapy rinse of the basket and tray, and wipe the interior. Dry parts so they are ready for the next cook.

Why does my air fryer still smoke after cleaning?

Grease may remain on the coil or in hidden corners. Clean the coil again, check the drawer, and avoid excess oil.

Conclusion

If you’ve read this far, you now know what’s the best way to clean an air fryer from quick wipes to deep degreasing. Keep it simple: unplug, soak, wipe, dry, and protect the nonstick. Do it often, and your fryer will cook better, smell cleaner, and last longer.

Try the routine on your very next cook. Share your results, ask questions, or subscribe for more kitchen care tips that save time and money.