Clean the basket and tray while they're still warm
The easiest time to clean your air fryer is right after you finish cooking, while the basket and tray are still warm but cool enough to touch safely. Unplug the unit first, then wait about three to five minutes. Warm surfaces release stuck-on food much more easily than cold ones, and you'll spend half the time scrubbing.
Slide the basket and tray out of the unit. Soak them in hot soapy water for five to ten minutes if there's heavy buildup. For everyday cooking, a quick wipe with a damp cloth or soft sponge usually removes all the residue. Use the soapy water and a non-abrasive sponge—never steel wool or harsh scrubbers, which can damage the non-stick coating.
Rinse both pieces under running water and dry them completely with a clean cloth before putting them back. Water left sitting in the basket can rust the metal underneath the coating over time.
Key Takeaways
- Clean the basket and tray while warm, within three to five minutes of cooking, because food releases more easily and you'll finish faster.
- Use only soft sponges and warm soapy water on the non-stick surfaces—steel wool and abrasive scrubbers will strip the coating.
- Wipe down the heating element and interior walls with a damp cloth once a month to prevent smoke and burnt smells during cooking.
- Never submerge the main unit in water; the heating element and electrical parts will be damaged.
- Dry all pieces completely before reassembling, because water left inside can rust metal parts and create odors.
Wipe the interior and heating element monthly
Once a month, clean the inside of the air fryer itself. Unplug it and let it cool completely—at least 30 minutes. Take a damp cloth (not dripping wet, just damp) and wipe down the interior walls and the heating element coil at the top. You'll see buildup from cooking oils and food particles that can create smoke and burnt smells if left alone.
Be gentle around the heating element—you're not scrubbing, just wiping. If there's stubborn buildup, dampen the cloth a bit more and let it sit against the spot for a few seconds before wiping. Never use water directly on the element or spray anything inside the unit.
Handle stuck-on food without damaging the coating
If food has hardened to the basket or tray, don't scrape it with a knife or metal tool. Soak the piece in hot soapy water for 15 to 20 minutes, then use a soft sponge or cloth to gently work the food loose. If it still won't budge, soak it longer rather than scrubbing harder.
For really stubborn spots, a paste of baking soda and water works well. Spread it on the stuck food, let it sit for five minutes, then wipe with a damp cloth. Baking soda is mild enough not to scratch the non-stick surface but abrasive enough to break down burnt-on residue.
Never submerge or spray the main unit
The heating element, electrical cord, and internal wiring will be damaged if water gets inside the main unit. Never submerge the air fryer in water, and never spray it with a hose or spray bottle. The basket and tray are removable and dishwasher-safe on most models, but the unit itself must stay dry.
If you need to clean the exterior, use a barely damp cloth and wipe it down quickly, then dry it when ready. Check your specific model's manual, because some manufacturers recommend against even that.
Dry everything completely before reassembling
Water left inside the basket or tray will rust the metal underneath the non-stick coating and create musty smells. After washing, dry both pieces thoroughly with a clean cloth, then let them air-dry for a few minutes before sliding them back into the unit.
If you notice water pooling in the bottom of the basket after cooking, that's usually grease and water from the food. Wipe it out with a paper towel before the next use. Some models have a removable crumb tray at the very bottom—check your manual to see if yours does, and empty it weekly.
What to do about lingering smells and smoke
If your air fryer smokes during cooking or smells burnt even after cleaning, the heating element probably has buildup. Unplug the unit, let it cool, and wipe the element and interior walls with a damp cloth as described above. Sometimes a second wipe makes the difference.
You can also run the air fryer empty at 400°F for five minutes to burn off any residue, but only after you've wiped it down first. Open a window or turn on a fan—it will smell strong. This is normal and clears after a few minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I put the basket in the dishwasher?
Most air fryer baskets and trays are dishwasher-safe, but check your manual first because some brands recommend hand washing to extend the non-stick coating's life. If you do use the dishwasher, place them on the top rack away from the heating element. Hand washing with a soft sponge will make them last longer.
What if water gets inside the main unit?
Unplug it when ready and let it dry completely for at least 24 hours before plugging it back in. Place it in a warm, dry spot or near a fan to speed up drying. If water got on the heating element, wait longer. If it won't turn on after drying, the unit may be damaged and should not be used.
How often should I clean my air fryer?
Clean the basket and tray after every use—it takes two minutes and prevents buildup. Wipe the interior and heating element once a month, or more often if you cook greasy foods regularly. Empty any crumb tray weekly if your model has one.
Is it safe to use vinegar or lemon juice to clean it?
Vinegar and lemon juice are acidic and can damage the non-stick coating over time. Stick to warm soapy water and baking soda paste for stuck-on food. Both are gentle on the coating and work just as well.
Why does my air fryer smell burnt even after cleaning?
Buildup on the heating element is the most common cause. Wipe it down with a damp cloth, then run the unit empty at 400°F for five minutes with a window open. If the smell continues, the non-stick coating may be wearing away and releasing fumes—this is a sign the basket or tray needs replacing.