Air fryers are one of the most-used appliances in modern kitchens — which also makes them one of the fastest to get greasy. Burnt-on food residue, splattered oil, and lingering odours build up quickly if you're not cleaning the basket and interior after every few uses. This guide covers how to clean your air fryer thoroughly without damaging the non-stick coating or heating element.
What You'll Need
- Dish soap
- Warm water
- Soft sponge or non-scratch brush
- Baking soda (for stubborn grease)
- Microfibre cloth or paper towels
- Toothbrush (for the coil)
Step 1: Unplug and Cool Down Completely
Never clean an air fryer while it's warm. Unplug it and let it cool for at least 30 minutes before disassembling. Attempting to clean a warm basket can warp the non-stick coating and poses a burn risk.
Step 2: Remove and Wash the Basket and Tray
Pull out the basket and any removable tray or rack. Wash them in warm, soapy water with a soft sponge. Avoid steel wool or abrasive scrubbers — they scratch the non-stick surface and cause it to flake. For stubborn baked-on grease, soak the basket in hot soapy water for 20 minutes before scrubbing. Many baskets are dishwasher-safe, but check your model's manual first — high heat can degrade non-stick coatings over time.
Step 3: Clean the Interior Cavity
Use a damp cloth with a small amount of dish soap to wipe down the interior walls of the air fryer. Work around the sides and bottom, wiping away any splatters or residue. Don't spray water directly into the unit — dampen the cloth instead and wring it out well before wiping.
Step 4: Clean the Heating Coil
Turn the air fryer upside down and look at the heating element at the top. If you see baked-on grease or food residue, use a soft toothbrush to gently scrub it away. This is a common source of smoke and burning smells. Be gentle — you're not trying to scrub hard, just dislodge loose debris.
Step 5: Tackle Stubborn Grease with Baking Soda
For areas where grease has carbonized (turned dark and hard), make a paste of baking soda and water. Apply it to the affected area with a soft brush, let it sit for 10–15 minutes, then scrub gently and wipe clean. Baking soda is mildly abrasive but safe for non-stick and stainless surfaces when used carefully.
Step 6: Dry Thoroughly Before Reassembling
Use a dry microfibre cloth or paper towel to dry all components completely before putting the air fryer back together. Any remaining moisture can cause odours or electrical issues the next time you heat it up.
How Often Should You Clean Your Air Fryer?
Ideally, rinse the basket and tray after every use to prevent buildup. Do a full clean — including the interior and heating coil — every five to ten uses, or whenever you notice smoke or burnt smells. A quick rinse after each use makes full cleans much faster and easier.
Need Help with the Rest of Your Kitchen?
Maidless provides professional kitchen cleaning as part of every standard and deep clean across Toronto and the GTA. Book your clean online at maidless.ca.