How to Clean an Air Fryer
Published Dec 15, 2025
How to clean an air fryer and my fav hacks for removing stubborn grease. From the basket to the heating element, it effectively maintains its performance.
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This quick tutorial shows you how to clean an air fryer inside and out! While grease and stuck-on food can make it seem tricky, it’s easier than you think. Follow these step-by-step tips from how to clean an air fryer basket to the heating element and all my best air fryer cleaning hacks to keep your air fryer in pristine shape. Grab your scrub brush and let’s get started!
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Deep cleaning your air fryer might seem daunting, but it’s easier than you think, no matter the size or the type. This guide covers removing stubborn grease, cleaning tips, and clever hacks, plus some of my favorite easy air fryer recipes. For more on using your air fryer, check out my post on how to use an air fryer.
Why is it Important to Clean an Air Fryer?
Regularly cleaning your air fryer keeps it working at its best. Grease and food buildup can block airflow, cause uneven cooking, produce unpleasant odors, and even create a breeding ground for bacteria. Plus, the longer you wait, the harder it is to clean, so a little TLC goes a long way in keeping every meal tasty and safe. Once I made it a habit to give my air fryer a quick wipe-down after each use, it became so much easier. And trust me, it makes a world of difference!
How Often to Clean Your Air Fryer
I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but your air fryer needs a quick clean after every use. Wipe out the grease from the basket and grate each time. Then, once a week, give the inside, heating element, and exterior a more thorough cleaning to prevent buildup.
For extra stubborn messes, a little vinegar and baking soda does the trick – see how below!
What to Avoid When Cleaning an Air Fryer
When it comes to cleaning your air fryer, simplicity is key. However, there are a few tools and products you should steer clear of to ensure your air fryer stays in excellent condition for years to come.
It’s also important to consult the manufacturer’s instructions, as cleaning methods can differ depending on your specific air fryer model. By following these guidelines, you’ll keep your air fryer in tip-top shape and enjoy its benefits for a long time.
- Disinfectant sprays or wipes. Most disinfectant products aren’t designed to be used on surfaces where you cook your food. It’s best to avoid any potential cross-contamination by sticking to cleaning methods specifically recommended for your air fryer.
- Metal utensils or harsh abrasives. Don’t use metal utensils or harsh abrasives, such as steel wool. The basket and grate have a delicate nonstick coating that can get scratched and damaged by these tools. Keep your air fryer in top condition by opting for utensils and cleaning methods that are gentle and non-abrasive.
- Submerging in water. Never submerge the air fryer appliance in water, as it can damage the electrical unit and make it unsafe for use. However, you can safely clean the air fryer basket and grate by placing them in water. So, remember to keep the appliance dry while giving the removable parts a good cleaning. Safety first!
How to Clean an Air Fryer Properly
Before diving into cleaning, make sure that the basket is unplugged and has completely cooled down. Then, gather a nonabrasive sponge, a washcloth, and a brush. Wash the basket with soap and water, soaking or using the cleaning hacks below for stubborn residues!
How to Clean an Air Fryer Basket
- Fill the air fryer basket with warm soapy water with the grate still inside.
- After a few minutes, lift up the grate and use a scrub brush to remove debris. A brush works wonders on the grate because it gets into all the nooks and crannies a sponge may not reach. Once the grate is cleaned, set it to the side.
How to Clean Grease From an Air Fryer Basket
- Add a small amount of dish soap to a damp, soft cloth or sponge. Wipe the grease and food bits out of the inside of the air fryer basket. You may need to use a little elbow grease to loosen up any gunk on the bottom.
- Once the inside is clean, wipe it with a clean, dry cloth.
How to Clean the Air Fryer Heating Element
- To easily access the heating element, turn the air fryer upside down. This will make accessing and cleaning this part of the machine much easier. Gently wipe it with a damp sponge or cloth, then dry with a clean cloth.
- After cleaning the inside, wipe the outside with a damp cloth, then dry with a clean towel.
Reassemble. Reassemble the air fryer once all the parts of the air fryer are completely dry.
Air Fryer Cleaning Hacks
These three cleaning hacks use vinegar and baking soda to help you achieve a sparkly clean air fryer basket. This combination is great for removing baked-on grease from your air fryer without using heavy or harsh chemicals that could damage your appliance. You no longer have to put up with stubborn grease and built-up food debris!
Clean Air Fryer with Baking Soda and Vinegar
- Use a paste of baking soda and water. If you’re wondering how to clean an air fryer with baking soda, it’s super easy. Make a thick paste of baking soda and water. Apply it to the basket or the inside of the air fryer and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, use a soft scrub brush or cloth to remove built-up grease and grime for a sparkling, clean appliance.
- Equal parts vinegar and warm water. Using vinegar to clean the air fryer will deodorize it and loosen stuck-on food. Mix equal parts vinegar and warm water. Use this solution in a spray bottle, and spray it on the inside of the air fryer. You can also pour the vinegar-and-water mixture into the basket and let itsoak for easy cleaning.
- Paste of baking soda and vinegar. For tough-to-remove grease and grime in the air fryer basket, use a thick mixture of baking soda and vinegar, then spread it over the baked-on food. Let it sit for a couple of minutes, then scrub it off with a soft brush. Rinse thoroughly.
Air Fryer Recipes to Try
Here’s a few of my favorite air fryer recipes, but if you’re looking for more inspiration, make sure to check out my roundup of the Best Air Fryer Recipes for quick, crispy, and delicious meals.
- Air Fryer Salmon
- Air Fryer Potatoes
- Air Fryer Popcorn
- Breaded Air Fryer Chicken
- Air Fried Falafel
- Air Fryer Green Beans
- Air Fryer Hard Boiled Eggs
- Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp
- Air Fryer Chickpeas
- Air Fryer Steak
Frequently Asked Questions
Common household supplies: mild dish soap, a soft sponge or cloth, a soft-bristle brush, warm water, and non-abrasive cleaning pads if needed. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for specific cleaning methods.
Yes, both foil and parchment paper can be used in an air fryer to line the bottom, preventing direct contact between food and the basket while catching any drippings. However, it’s important not to cover the entire basket as it will block airflow and cause your food to cook unevenly. Also, make sure that the paper or foil does not come into direct contact with the heating element.
It depends on the air fryer model. Most air fryer baskets, trays, and crisper plates are dishwasher safe, but you should always check your user manual first, especially if they have a nonstick coating. The main unit (the part with the heating element and controls) should never go in the dishwasher or be submerged in water.
For more helpful how-to’s, be sure to check out: How to Cut a Whole Chicken, How to Cut Potatoes, and How to Make Lemon Pepper Seasoning.
If you found this tutorial for How to Clean an Air Fryer helpful or if you try any recipe on Feel Good Foodie, then don’t forget to rate the recipe and leave a comment below! It helps others who are thinking of trying out this tutorial and we would love to hear about your experience. And if you snapped some shots, share it on Instagram so we can repost on Stories!
How to Clean an Air Fryer
Ingredients
- sponge
- dry towel
- soft cleaning brush
- dish soap
Instructions
- Unplug the air fryer and let it cool down.
- Remove the basket from the air fryer. Most models have a removable basket that can be easily lifted out.
- Empty the contents of the basket into the trash. Be sure to shake it out well so that any small bits of food are removed. If you have stuck on food clogging up the holes, you can use a toothpick to help remove them. Do NOT use metal in your air fryer basket. Wash with warm soapy water with a soft cloth or scratch-proof sponge and let dry.
- Wipe down the inside of the air fryer with a damp cloth. You may need to use a little bit of soap to remove any stubborn grease or food stains. Be sure to dry it off completely before moving on to the next step.
- Replace the basket and put it back into the air fryer.
- Wipe down the outside of the air fryer with a damp cloth. Again, you may need to use a little bit of soap to remove any fingerprints or smudges.
Equipment
Nutrition information provided is an estimate. It will vary based on cooking method and specific ingredients used.
