How to Clean an Air Fryer & Maintenance Properly

Wondering how to clean an air fryer properly? You’re not alone. As air fryers have become essential kitchen appliances, knowing the right way to maintain them is crucial for optimal performance and longevity. This comprehensive guide covers everything from quick daily cleaning to deep cleaning techniques that will keep your air fryer working like new.

Table of Contents

Why Proper Air Fryer Cleaning Matters

Learning how to clean an air fryer properly isn’t just about hygiene—it’s about protecting your investment and ensuring delicious results every time you cook. Regular air fryer maintenance offers several critical benefits:

Prevents grease buildup that affects cooking performance
Extends appliance lifespan by preventing damage to components
Ensures food safety by eliminating bacteria and residue
Maintains cooking efficiency for consistent, even results
Eliminates odors so your food tastes fresh every time
Preserves the non-stick coating on your air fryer basket

Neglecting proper cleaning can lead to burnt food particles, unpleasant smells, and reduced air circulation—all of which compromise your cooking results.

Essential Tools for Air Fryer Cleaning

Before you learn how to clean an air fryer properly, gather these essential cleaning supplies:

Soft sponge or microfiber cloth
Soft-bristle brush or old toothbrush
Mild dish soap (Dawn works great)
Warm water
Paper towels or clean dish towels
Baking soda (for stubborn stains)
White vinegar (for grease removal)

What to Avoid: Never use steel wool, abrasive scrubbers, harsh chemicals, chlorine-based cleaners, or bleach. These can damage the non-stick coating and other components.

How to Clean an Air Fryer Properly: Quick Daily Method

For everyday maintenance after each use, follow these simple steps to clean your air fryer basket and removable parts:

Step 1: Safety First

Unplug the air fryer from the power outlet
Allow it to cool for 10-15 minutes (the residual heat actually helps loosen grease)
Never cool under cold water—thermal shock can crack plastic parts

Step 2: Remove and Wash Removable Parts

Take out the air fryer basket, crisper plate, and any racks
Wash with warm, soapy water using a soft sponge
For best results, hand wash instead of using the dishwasher (preserves the non-stick surface longer)
Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue
Dry completely with paper towels

Step 3: Wipe Down the Interior

Use a damp cloth with mild dish soap to wipe the interior walls
Pay attention to corners where grease accumulates
Wipe again with a clean, damp cloth to remove soap
Dry thoroughly with a clean towel

Step 4: Clean the Exterior

Wipe the outside of the air fryer with a slightly damp cloth
For the control panel, use a dry cloth to prevent moisture damage
Clean the bottom vents with a soft brush to maintain airflow

This quick cleaning routine takes just 5-10 minutes and prevents buildup that makes deep cleaning more difficult later.

How to Deep Clean an Air Fryer: Monthly Maintenance

Deep cleaning your air fryer should be done monthly, or more frequently if you cook greasy foods regularly. Here’s the comprehensive process:

Preparing for Deep Cleaning

Complete cool-down: Ensure the air fryer is unplugged and completely cool
Remove all detachable components: Basket, tray, crisper plate, racks
Prepare cleaning solution: Mix warm water with mild dish soap

Deep Cleaning the Basket and Accessories

For Regular Buildup:

Fill your sink with warm, soapy water
Submerge the air fryer basket and accessories for 15 minutes
Scrub gently with a soft sponge, using a soft-bristle brush for crevices
Rinse thoroughly under running water
Dry completely before reassembling

For Stubborn, Burnt-On Grease:

Create a paste using 3 parts baking soda to 1 part warm water
Apply the paste to stubborn stains and burnt food particles
Let it sit for 15-20 minutes
Scrub gently with a non-abrasive sponge
Rinse and dry thoroughly

Alternative Method with Vinegar:

Spray white vinegar directly on greasy spots
Let it sit for 10 minutes to break down the grease
Wipe clean with a damp cloth
This method is excellent for removing lingering odors

Cleaning the Heating Element

The heating element requires special care when learning how to clean an air fryer properly:

Never apply water directly to the heating element (risk of electrical damage)
Use a dry, soft-bristle brush to gently sweep away dust and food particles
For grease on the element, use a cotton ball dampened with white vinegar
Alternatively, use a slightly damp cloth with warm soapy water
Ensure the heating element is completely dry before using the air fryer again

Cleaning the Heating Coil

The coil distributes heat throughout the appliance:

Use a cotton ball soaked in white vinegar
Gently wipe the coil to remove grease buildup
For heavy buildup, you can use a product specifically designed for cleaning hot plates
Always ensure the appliance is off and completely cool

Cleaning the Main Unit and Interior

Wipe interior walls with a soft cloth dampened with diluted dish soap
Pay special attention to corners and the area around the heating element
Use a soft-bristle brush for hard-to-reach crevices
Wipe with a clean, damp cloth to remove soap residue
Dry thoroughly with a clean towel or paper towels

Final Assembly

Ensure every component is completely dry
Reassemble all parts according to the manufacturer’s instructions
Store in a clean, dry, well-ventilated area

How to Clean Different Types of Air Fryers

Basket-Style Air Fryers

These are the most common models. Follow the standard cleaning methods above, paying special attention to cleaning the air fryer basket thoroughly after each use.

Oven-Style Air Fryers

These larger units have different cleaning needs:

Remove all racks and trays for separate washing
The larger cooking chamber can be cleaned with warm soapy water on a soft cloth
For stubborn spots, use a detergent specifically for cleaning microwave ovens
Clean the glass door with a mixture of water and vinegar for a streak-free shine
Use a soft brush to clean the fan and upper surfaces carefully

Air Fryer Toaster Ovens

Follow the same principles as oven-style models
Pay extra attention to crumb trays, which should be emptied after each use
Clean heating elements with extreme care using only a dry brush

First-Time Use: Initial Cleaning

Before cooking with a new air fryer, run a vacuum cleaning cycle:

Fill the basket with water
Set temperature to 200°C (400°F)
Run for 10 minutes
This removes any manufacturing residue
Allow to cool, then wash all removable parts

Tips for Keeping Your Air Fryer Cleaner Longer

Use Air Fryer Liners

Parchment paper liners catch drippings and reduce mess
Silicone liners are reusable and eco-friendly
Never let liners touch the heating element (fire hazard)
Ensure liners don’t block air circulation

Use Aluminum Foil Correctly

Can line the basket to catch grease
Never cover vents or the heating element
Ensure proper airflow isn’t restricted

Wipe After Every Use

Even a quick wipe prevents buildup
Much easier than deep cleaning later
Focuses on high-grease areas

Avoid Overcrowding

Overcrowding causes excess splatter
Leads to more cleaning work
Affects cooking performance

Cook with Less Oil When Possible

While air fryers need minimal oil, less oil means less cleanup
Focus oil on the food, not the basket

Common Air Fryer Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid

When learning how to clean an air fryer properly, avoid these common errors:

Using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials – Damages non-stick coating permanently
Putting hot parts in water – Can cause warping or cracking
Skipping the heating element – Grease builds up and reduces efficiency
Not drying thoroughly – Moisture can cause malfunction or rust
Submerging the entire unit – Water damages electrical components
Using metal utensils – Scratches the non-stick surface
Dishwasher overuse – While some parts are dishwasher-safe, hand washing extends coating life
Adding water and running to “clean” – This damages the appliance and doesn’t actually clean it

Troubleshooting: How to Remove Stubborn Problems

Eliminating Persistent Odors

Sprinkle baking soda generously in the basket
Let it sit overnight to absorb odors
Rinse thoroughly before next use
Alternative: Place a bowl of water with lemon slices inside and run at 200°C for 5 minutes

Removing Burnt-On Food

Soak affected parts in warm, soapy water for 15-20 minutes
Use the baking soda paste method (mentioned above)
For extremely stubborn spots, let the paste sit for 30 minutes
Never scrape with metal tools

Dealing with Sticky Residue

Dawn dish soap is particularly effective on sticky, greasy residue
Apply directly to the area, let sit for 10 minutes
Scrub with a soft sponge in circular motions
Rinse thoroughly

Cleaning Stained Non-Stick Coating

Mix equal parts baking soda and water
Apply to stained areas gently
Let sit for 15 minutes
Wipe clean with a damp cloth
Never use abrasive scrubbers on stains

Can You Put Air Fryer Parts in the Dishwasher?

Many air fryer baskets and accessories are dishwasher-safe, but there are important considerations:

Pros of Dishwasher Cleaning:

Convenient for busy households
Effective for removing grease
Good for deep cleaning monthly

Cons of Dishwasher Cleaning:

Can wear down non-stick coating faster
High heat may cause warping over time
Harsh detergents can damage surfaces

Best Practice: Hand wash after each use, and reserve the dishwasher for monthly deep cleaning when really greasy. Always check your air fryer’s manual for specific dishwasher recommendations.

How Often Should You Clean Your Air Fryer?

Proper air fryer maintenance follows this schedule:

After Every Use (5-10 minutes):

Wipe down removable parts
Clean basket and tray with warm soapy water
Quick wipe of interior

Weekly (if used daily):

More thorough cleaning of all components
Check heating element for buildup

Monthly Deep Clean (20-30 minutes):

Complete disassembly and cleaning
Baking soda treatment for stubborn stains
Thorough heating element cleaning
Inspect for any wear or damage

After Cooking Greasy Foods:

Immediate deep clean recommended
Prevents hardened grease buildup
Examples: bacon, fried chicken, fatty meats

Air Fryer Maintenance Beyond Cleaning

Knowing how to clean an air fryer properly is just one aspect of maintenance:

Inspect Regularly:

Check power cord for damage
Ensure the basket slides smoothly
Look for cracks or damage to components

Proper Storage:

Store in a dry, cool place
Ensure completely dry before storing
Keep away from heat sources

Replace When Necessary:

Non-stick coating showing significant wear
Damaged baskets or cracked parts
Most manufacturers sell replacement baskets

Use Correctly to Reduce Cleaning:

Don’t exceed maximum temperature settings
Shake basket during cooking to prevent sticking
Use appropriate amounts of oil

Health and Safety Benefits of Proper Air Fryer Cleaning

Understanding how to clean an air fryer properly directly impacts your health:

Prevents bacterial growth from old food residue
Eliminates carcinogens from burnt food particles
Reduces smoke during cooking
Prevents allergic reactions from cross-contamination
Ensures proper cooking temperatures with clean heating elements

Regular cleaning is essential for maintaining food safety standards in your home kitchen.

Environmental Impact: Cleaning Products Matter

When learning how to clean an air fryer properly, consider eco-friendly options:

Natural Cleaning Alternatives:

Baking soda (natural degreaser)
White vinegar (cuts through grease)
Lemon juice (natural deodorizer)
Castile soap (plant-based cleaner)

These natural solutions are effective, safe for your air fryer’s coating, and better for the environment than harsh chemical cleaners.

Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Cleaning

How do you clean an air fryer with baking soda and vinegar? Create a baking soda paste for scrubbing stuck-on food, rinse thoroughly, then wipe with a vinegar-soaked cloth to remove grease and odors. This combination is highly effective for deep cleaning.

What is the best grease remover for an air fryer? Dawn dish soap, baking soda paste, or white vinegar are the best options. They break down grease without damaging the non-stick surface.

Can I use steel wool on my air fryer? Never use steel wool or abrasive scrubbers. They will scratch and permanently damage the non-stick coating, making future cleaning harder and potentially causing food to stick.

How do I clean the heating element without damaging it? Use a dry, soft-bristle brush to gently sweep away debris. For grease, use a slightly damp cloth or cotton ball with white vinegar. Never apply water directly and ensure it’s completely dry before use.

Why does my air fryer smell even after cleaning? Persistent odors usually mean grease has built up in hard-to-reach areas. Try the overnight baking soda method or run the air fryer empty at 200°C with lemon water inside for 5 minutes.

Can I clean my air fryer by putting water in it and turning it on? Absolutely not. Adding water to the air fryer and turning it on can damage the electrical components and won’t actually clean the appliance. Always clean parts separately.

How long should I let my air fryer cool before cleaning? Wait 10-15 minutes after unplugging. The residual heat actually helps loosen grease, making cleaning easier, but it won’t be dangerously hot.

Conclusion: Master the Art of Air Fryer Maintenance

Now that you know how to clean an air fryer properly, you can maintain your appliance for years of healthy, delicious cooking. Remember these key points:

Clean removable parts after every use
Perform monthly deep cleaning with baking soda for tough stains
Never use abrasive materials or harsh chemicals
Always ensure parts are completely dry before reassembly
Use parchment liners to minimize mess
Pay special attention to the heating element

Proper air fryer cleaning isn’t just about hygiene—it’s about maximizing performance, extending appliance life, and ensuring every meal tastes its best. By following this comprehensive guide on how to clean an air fryer properly, you’ll keep your appliance in top condition and enjoy perfectly cooked food every time.

Start implementing these cleaning techniques today, and you’ll notice the difference in both your air fryer’s performance and the quality of your meals. Your future self will thank you for taking the time to maintain this valuable kitchen appliance properly!