What's The Best Way To Clean Your Air Fryer: Expert Tips

Unplug the unit, let it cool, wash the basket, wipe the heater, dry well.

If you want spotless results and a longer-lasting machine, you need a clear plan. Here, I’ll show what’s the best way to clean your air fryer with simple steps, real-world tips, and safe methods that work. I’ve tested these on many models, and I’ll share what to do, what to avoid, and how to save time without risking the nonstick coating.

Why cleaning your air fryer matters

Clean gear cooks better food. Old oil turns sticky and smokes. It can even make your fries taste off.

Grease near the heater can burn and smell. A clean basket also protects the nonstick layer. This is core to what’s the best way to clean your air fryer.

Regular care can also cut noise and hot spots. Your fan and vents stay clear. That makes heat flow smooth.

Tools and supplies you actually need

You do not need harsh chemicals. Simple tools work best and keep your warranty safe.

Mild dish soap
Warm water
Soft sponge or non-scratch scrub pad
Microfiber cloths or paper towels
Nylon brush or old soft toothbrush
Baking soda
White vinegar or lemon juice
Wooden skewer or toothpicks for crevices
Soft pastry or bottle brush for the heater area
Optional liners: perforated parchment or silicone

Avoid steel wool, oven cleaner, and abrasive powders. Do not spray the main unit with water. Simple tools are what’s the best way to clean your air fryer without harm.

Step-by-step: what’s the best way to clean your air fryer after daily use

Follow this quick routine. It takes a few minutes and prevents buildup.

Unplug and cool. Let the air fryer cool for 15 to 30 minutes.
Remove parts. Take out the basket, tray, and pan.
Soak parts. Use warm water with a few drops of dish soap for 10 minutes.
Wash gently. Use a soft sponge. Use a nylon brush for the mesh or tray holes.
Rinse and dry. Use a towel. Set parts to air dry to protect nonstick.
Wipe the heater area. Turn the unit upside down. Wipe the heating element and chamber walls with a damp microfiber cloth. Use a soft brush for crumbs near the coil. Do not drip water into the unit.
Clean the exterior. Wipe with a damp cloth. Dry right away.
Reassemble and run warm air. Optional: run empty for 2 to 3 minutes to dry any hidden moisture.

If you want what’s the best way to clean your air fryer with less work, do this right after cooking. Warm residue lifts fast.

Deep-clean routine for stuck-on grease and odors

Grease can bake on over time. Use these steps once a week or when you see sticky spots.

Baking soda paste. Mix baking soda with a little water. Spread on sticky areas of the basket or tray. Wait 15 minutes. Scrub gently with a nylon brush and rinse.
Heater cleanup. With the unit upside down and unplugged, use a damp cloth with a drop of soap. Wipe the coil and shield. For light carbon, rub a small amount of baking soda on a damp cloth. Wipe clean, then wipe with water only, and dry.
Vent care. Use a soft brush or a handheld vacuum to clear the rear vents.
Odor reset. If your manual allows it, place a heat-safe bowl with 1 cup hot water and 2 tablespoons vinegar or lemon juice in the basket. Run at 300°F for 3 to 5 minutes. Let it cool. Wipe dry. Do not use this step if your maker warns against liquids inside.

These steps are what’s the best way to clean your air fryer when smells linger. They are safe for most coatings when done gently.

Keep the nonstick safe and the warranty intact

Nonstick is strong but needs care. Rough tools can scratch it for good.

Use soft sponges only. Skip steel wool and hard scouring pads.
Avoid harsh oven cleaners and bleach. They can dull and pit the surface.
Check the manual before using the dishwasher. Many baskets say dishwasher safe. Handwashing still lasts longer.
Never soak the main unit. It holds wires and the fan.
Do not spray oil or cleaner near the heater when the unit is hot.

These simple rules are what’s the best way to clean your air fryer and keep it like new.

How often to clean and a sample schedule

A simple schedule keeps mess from piling up. It also makes cleaning fast.

After every cook. Empty crumbs, wipe the basket, and do a quick wash.
Every two to three uses. Clean the heater area and chamber walls.
Monthly or heavy use. Do a full deep clean with baking soda paste and vent care.

This rhythm is what’s the best way to clean your air fryer without spending your whole weekend scrubbing.

Troubleshooting stains, smoke, and sticky residue

Small issues can grow if you ignore them. Use these quick fixes.

White haze on nonstick. Often soap film. Rinse with hot water and wipe with vinegar. Rinse again and dry.
Smoke during preheat. Oil is pooling under the tray. Clean the drip area and tray holes. Use a liner with holes for airflow.
Rainbow or brown film on the heater. It is baked oil. Use a damp cloth and baking soda. Wipe clean and dry.
Sticky basket after dishwasher. The detergent may be harsh. Handwash next time. Restore slip with a light wipe of high smoke point oil, then wipe off excess.
Peeling coating. Stop using it. Contact support. Do not scrape loose bits.

If you see repeat smoke, ask what’s the best way to clean your air fryer for your exact model. Some brands need a different heater wipe method.

Eco-friendly and time-saving hacks

You can save time and reduce waste. Small habits help a lot.

Use a refillable oil sprayer. Skip aerosol sprays. Aerosols can leave gummy residue.
Line smart. Use perforated parchment or a silicone mat cut for your basket. Do not block airflow.
Pre-soak while you eat. Fill the sink with warm, soapy water and drop in the basket and tray.
Keep a “clean kit.” Store a soft brush, microfiber cloth, and baking soda near the unit.
Wipe the heater every few days. It takes 30 seconds and stops buildup.

These habits are what’s the best way to clean your air fryer with less effort and less waste.

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

Can I put air fryer parts in the dishwasher?

Many baskets and trays are dishwasher safe. Handwashing still protects nonstick better and helps parts last longer.

Is vinegar safe for cleaning an air fryer?

Yes, diluted vinegar helps cut grease and odors. Keep it off bare aluminum and always rinse and dry.

How do I clean the heating element safely?

Unplug and let it cool. Wipe with a damp cloth and a drop of soap, then wipe with water only and dry.

What causes smoke in my air fryer?

Old oil and crumbs near the heater often burn and smoke. Clean the drip area and tray holes and avoid excess oil.

Are liners safe to use?

Yes, use perforated parchment or silicone that fits your basket. Never block airflow or cover the entire surface without holes.

Can I use baking soda on nonstick?

Yes, make a gentle paste and use a soft sponge. Rinse well and dry to avoid residue.

What oils are best to prevent sticky buildup?

Use high smoke point oils like avocado or refined canola. Avoid aerosol sprays, which can leave a gummy film.

Conclusion

You now know what’s the best way to clean your air fryer and keep it running like new. Unplug, cool, wash parts by hand, wipe the heater, and dry well. Add a monthly deep clean to stop odors and smoke before they start.

Start today with one small habit: soak the basket right after dinner. Your food will taste better, and cleanup will feel easy. If this guide helped, share it with a friend, subscribe for more kitchen tips, or drop your questions in the comments.

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