How to Clean an Air Fryer Step by Step

Quick Answer

Clean the basket and tray after every use with warm water and soap (or in the dishwasher if they’re dishwasher-safe), and do a deeper clean of the heating element and interior every 1-2 weeks. Never submerge the base with the heating element in water, and avoid abrasive scrubbers that could damage the non-stick coating.

This guide applies to any air fryer, regardless of brand. If you have a specific model and want brand-specific instructions, you’ll find links to our brand usage guides at the end of the article.

Why Regular Cleaning Matters

Prevents smoking: grease buildup from previous uses is one of the most common causes of smoke, as we covered in our guide on why your air fryer is smoking.
Extends the life of the non-stick coating: burnt grease residue can damage it over time if not removed.
Improves cooking results: a clean basket allows air to circulate better, giving more even results.
Prevents bad odors: leftover food residue can create smells that transfer to future recipes.

Quick Clean After Every Use (2 Minutes)

1. Let the Air Fryer Cool Down Completely

Never try to clean it while still hot, both for safety and because cold water on very hot surfaces can damage some coatings.

2. Remove the Basket and Tray

Take them out of the main unit.

3. Wash With Warm Water and Soap

Use a soft sponge — never abrasive or metal scrubbers, which can scratch the non-stick coating.

4. Dry Thoroughly Before Storing

Make sure there’s no moisture left, especially in the corners and slots of the basket.

5. Wipe Down the Inside of the Main Unit

Without soaking the heating element, wipe away any visible splatter on the interior walls with a damp cloth.

Deep Clean (Every 1-2 Weeks)

1. Unplug the Air Fryer

For safety, make sure it’s completely disconnected from power before starting.

2. Clean the Top Heating Element

Using a damp cloth or a soft-bristled brush, remove the grease buildup on the heating element. This is one of the areas where grease accumulates the most without being visible at a glance, and a common cause of smoke if neglected.

3. Soak the Basket if There’s Stubborn Residue

If there’s heavily stuck-on grease, soak the basket in warm soapy water for 10-15 minutes before scrubbing.

4. Use Baking Soda for Tough, Baked-On Residue

For stubborn stains, a paste of baking soda and a little water, applied for a few minutes before gently scrubbing, helps loosen grime without damaging the non-stick coating.

5. Clean the Outside of the Unit

Wipe down the entire outer housing with a damp cloth, including the control panel, being careful not to get the buttons or screen too wet.

Which Parts Are Dishwasher-Safe?

On most brands, the basket and tray are usually dishwasher-safe, though this varies by model and coating type. Always check the manual for your specific air fryer before putting the parts in the dishwasher, since some models with more delicate coatings recommend hand-washing only to extend their lifespan.

What You Should Never Do

Never submerge the base with the heating element in water. It contains the electrical components and can be permanently damaged.
Never use metal or abrasive scrubbers. They scratch the non-stick coating, reducing its effectiveness and lifespan.
Avoid harsh cleaning products or bleach directly on non-stick surfaces, as they can degrade them over time.
Don’t wash it while it’s still hot. Wait until it has cooled completely.

How to Get Rid of Odors in Your Air Fryer

If your air fryer has picked up an odor (for example, after cooking fish or heavily spiced foods), try this:

Mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a basket-safe container.
Place it inside the basket and run the empty air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes (with the container inside, uncovered).
Let it cool and wash the basket as usual.
Alternatively, you can rub the basket with half a lemon before your regular wash.

Common Mistakes When Cleaning an Air Fryer

Waiting too long between cleanings: grease hardens and becomes much harder to remove the longer it sits.
Never cleaning the top heating element: since it’s less visible than the basket, it’s the area most often neglected, and the main cause of lingering odors and smoke.
Using the wrong scrubbers or products: significantly shortens the lifespan of the non-stick coating.
Not drying thoroughly before storing: can lead to moisture buildup and bad odors over time.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cleaning an Air Fryer

How often should I clean my air fryer?

A quick clean of the basket after every use, and a deeper clean of the heating element and interior every 1-2 weeks depending on how often you use it.

Can I put the air fryer basket in the dishwasher?

On most models, yes, but it depends on the manufacturer and the type of coating. Always check your specific model’s manual to confirm.

How do I clean the heating element of an air fryer?

With the unit cool and unplugged, use a damp cloth or a soft-bristled brush to remove grease buildup, without using excessive water or submerging that area.

Why does my air fryer smell bad even though I clean it?

The top heating element likely has grease buildup that isn’t visible at a glance. Check and clean it specifically, in addition to the basket.

Can I use baking soda to clean my air fryer?

Yes, it’s a safe and effective method for stubborn, baked-on grease. Apply a paste of baking soda and water, let it sit for a few minutes, and gently scrub before rinsing.

Is it dangerous not to clean an air fryer properly?

It can increase the risk of excessive smoke and, in extreme cases of severely neglected grease buildup, pose a fire hazard. Regular cleaning prevents this issue.

Have a Specific Brand?

If you want more specific instructions for your model, including brand-specific cleaning tips, check out our usage guides: