Keeping your air fryer clean improves cooking performance, reduces smells, and extends the life of the appliance. Whether you use it daily or occasionally, a simple routine after each use plus a deeper clean now and then will keep your air fryer working like new. This guide gives practical, step-by-step cleaning instructions and safety tips—easy to follow and designed for most popular countertop models.
Why Regular Cleaning Matters
- Removes grease and food residue that can smoke or burn.
- Prevents unpleasant odours from building up.
- Maintains even airflow and heating efficiency.
- Reduces the risk of flare-ups and improves safety.
How Often to Clean Your Air Fryer
After every use: Empty crumbs, wipe the basket and tray.
Weekly (frequent use): Soak and wash removable parts.
Monthly or deep clean: Clean heating element, interior, and door seals thoroughly.
Quick Daily Clean — 5 Minutes
- Unplug the air fryer and let it cool completely.
- Remove the basket and tray. Empty crumbs into the bin.
- Wipe the interior with a soft, damp cloth or sponge.
- Wash the basket and tray in warm soapy water; dry fully before reinserting.
- Wipe the exterior with a damp cloth and dry with a towel.
Deep Clean — 20 to 30 Minutes
Do a deep clean when grease or stuck-on food builds up, or monthly for regular users.
- Unplug and cool the appliance completely.
- Remove all detachable parts. Soak baskets/trays in warm water with a splash of dish soap for 10–15 minutes.
- Use a soft-bristled brush or non-abrasive scrub pad to remove trapped food from the basket and tray—avoid metal scouring pads which can damage coatings.
- Turn the air fryer over and gently clean the heating element with a soft brush to remove crumbs and grease (do this only when the unit is unplugged and cool).
- Wipe the interior walls with a cloth dampened in warm, soapy water. For stubborn grease, a paste of baking soda and water applied briefly helps lift residue—wipe clean afterwards.
- Clean door seals and vents carefully to ensure proper sealing and airflow.
- Dry all parts thoroughly before reassembly to prevent steam and odour issues.
Removing Stubborn Odours and Grease
- Wipe interior with a 1:1 solution of water and white vinegar, then rinse with a damp cloth.
- For burnt-on residue, apply a baking soda paste, let sit 10–15 minutes, then scrub gently and rinse.
- Run the air fryer empty at 160°C for 5–8 minutes with a bowl of water and lemon slices inside—this helps freshen the interior.
Tips to Make Cleaning Easier
- Line the bottom of a solid tray (not the mesh basket) with perforated parchment paper made for air fryers to reduce splatter.
- Wipe spills promptly to prevent them from baking on.
- Use silicone liners or trays that are heat-safe and reusable for easy cleanup.
- Check your manual for dishwasher-safe parts—many baskets and trays are safe on the top rack.
- Avoid abrasive cleaners or metal tools that can damage non-stick surfaces.
Brand & Model Considerations
Design and materials vary across models. If you own cookware or appliances from the brands we stock—such as Scanpan, WMF, Essteele, or Chasseur—refer to the product manual for specific care advice. High-quality baskets and trays usually resist sticking and are easier to clean; using compatible cookware and accessories helps keep maintenance simple.
What Not to Do
- Never immerse the main unit (the electrical base) in water.
- Do not use metal scouring pads on non-stick surfaces.
- Avoid placing wet parts back into the unit before they are fully dry.
- Do not spray cleaning products directly onto heating elements or control panels.
Recommended Accessories to Simplify Cleaning
- Perforated air fryer parchment paper sheets
- Silicone reusable liners or small oven-safe trays
- Soft-bristled brush for baskets and heating element cleaning
Looking for durable cookware and accessories that work well with countertop appliances?
Browse our saucepan and cookware selection here: Saucepans & cookware.
Final Checklist Before You Next Use
- All parts are clean and completely dry.
- No loose crumbs remain inside the main unit or heating element area.
- Basket and tray reassembled correctly and seated firmly.
- Exterior wiped and controls dry.
Regular, simple maintenance keeps your air fryer safe and performing its best. If you need model-specific advice, tell us the model and we’ll help with tailored tips.
