The Best Way to Clean Your Air Fryer (Without the Hassle)

Why You Need to Clean Your Air Fryer (Yes, Every Time)

Air fryers may be magic, but they aren’t self-cleaning. The grease, crumbs, and oil buildup don’t just make your appliance look gross—they can also:

• Make your food taste weird
• Cause smoke while cooking
• Block airflow, making your air fryer less effective
• Become a fire hazard if too much grease builds up

Bottom line: Cleaning your air fryer isn’t just about looks. It helps keep your food tasting great and your appliance running smoothly.

How Often Should You Clean Your Air Fryer?

Everyday Cleaning vs. Deep Cleaning

• Quick Clean: After each use, wipe down the inside and rinse the basket with soapy water.
• Deep Clean: Once a week (or after a particularly messy meal), do a full wash with a food-grade degreaser like Quick 'n Brite’s paste to get rid of stuck-on grease.

Signs Your Air Fryer Needs a Deep Clean

• There’s a layer of grease on surfaces that won’t wipe off
• Your air fryer smells like last night’s dinner
• You see smoke while cooking
• Your food is cooking unevenly

What You’ll Need to Clean an Air Fryer

Forget harsh chemicals or endless scrubbing. The best method involves using:

• Warm water
• An eco-friendly cleaner like Quick 'n Brite paste
• A soft sponge or microfiber cloth
• Baking soda (for tough spots)
• A toothbrush or soft-bristle brush for small crevices
• Vinegar or lemon juice (for odors)

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Air Fryer

Step 1: Unplug and Let It Cool

First things first, unplug your air fryer and let it cool down. You don’t want to burn yourself or damage anything by cleaning a hot appliance.

Step 2: Remove the Basket and Tray

Take out the basket, tray, or any removable parts. If they’re dishwasher-safe (check your manual), go ahead and pop them in. Otherwise, soak them in warm, soapy water for about 10 minutes.

Step 3: Scrub Away the Grease

Use a sponge or soft brush to remove food residue. For tougher grease, make a paste with baking soda and water, scrub gently, and rinse clean.

Step 4: Wipe Down the Inside

Use a damp microfiber cloth with a little soap or soapy water to clean the inside walls.

Be extra careful around the heating element—you don’t want water getting inside or damaging sensitive surfaces.

If grease is stuck, a toothbrush works wonders in small spaces.

Step 5: Clean the Outside

Wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth and mild soap, making sure to remove any oils that may have splattered during cooking.

Step 6: Get Rid of Any Lingering Odors

Mix equal parts vinegar and lemon juice. Place a bowl of it inside the air fryer. Run the air fryer at 350°F for 3 minutes. Let it sit for 15 minutes before wiping it down.

Deep Cleaning Your Air Fryer

• Make a baking soda paste (baking soda + water) and scrub away stuck-on grease.
• Use a toothbrush to get into vents and small spaces.
• Remove the heating element cover (if possible) and wipe down underneath.
• Let everything dry completely before putting it back together.

What NOT to Do When Cleaning an Air Fryer

• Don’t use harsh chemicals. Bleach and oven cleaners can damage the non-stick coating.
• Don’t use steel wool. It can scratch the surfaces and ruin your basket.
• Don’t soak the main unit. The base contains electrical components—keep it dry.

How to Keep Your Air Fryer Cleaner for Longer

• Use parchment paper or silicone liners to catch drips and minimize oils on the basket.
• Wipe it down after every use (it only takes a minute).
• Don’t overload the basket. Overcrowding causes more mess and uneven cooking.

Common Air Fryer Cleaning Myths (Debunked)

• Myth: You can put all air fryer parts in the dishwasher.
  Fact: Some air fryer baskets are not dishwasher-safe. Check the manual first.
• Myth: Soap residue doesn’t matter.
  Fact: If you don’t rinse well, your next batch of fries might have a soapy aftertaste.

Conclusion

A quick wipe-down after each use with soapy water and an occasional deep clean will keep your food tasting great and your air fryer working like new.

FAQs

How do I remove burnt-on grease?

Try Quick 'n Brite’s paste, and if you need an extra superpower, add baking soda. Let it sit for 10 minutes, scrub gently, and rinse.

Why does my air fryer still smell after cleaning?

Odors can linger if grease is stuck in the vents. Try running it with vinegar and lemon juice inside to neutralize smells.