Clean your Breville air fryer after every use, while it's still warm but unplugged

The basket and tray are the parts that need attention after each use. Wipe them down with a damp cloth or soft sponge while the fryer is warm — food comes off more easily then — but always unplug the unit first and let it cool for a few minutes so you don't burn yourself. Most Breville air fryer baskets are dishwasher-safe, so you can also place them on the top rack of your dishwasher if that's easier for you.

The heating element and interior walls rarely need scrubbing because air fryers don't produce the same grease buildup that traditional deep fryers do. A quick wipe of the interior with a dry cloth once a month is usually enough. Never use abrasive scouring pads or harsh chemicals — they can damage the non-stick coating.

Key Takeaways

  • Unplug the air fryer and let it cool for a few minutes before cleaning any removable parts.
  • The basket and tray can go in the dishwasher on the top rack, or you can hand-wash them with warm soapy water and a soft sponge.
  • Wipe the interior with a dry cloth monthly; the heating element rarely needs cleaning because air fryers produce minimal grease buildup.
  • Never use abrasive pads, steel wool, or harsh chemicals, as they damage the non-stick surface.
  • If food is stuck to the basket, soak it in warm soapy water for 10 to 15 minutes before scrubbing gently.

Removing and washing the basket and tray

Pull out the basket and tray once the air fryer has cooled slightly. Most Breville models have a basket that slides out easily and a removable tray underneath that catches drippings. Both are non-stick coated, so treat them gently.

For hand-washing, use warm water, a drop of dish soap, and a soft sponge or cloth. Scrub gently in circular motions, paying attention to corners where crumbs collect. Rinse thoroughly under running water and dry with a clean towel before putting them back. If food is stuck on, fill your sink with warm soapy water, place the basket and tray inside, and let them soak for 10 to 15 minutes — the food will loosen and wipe away easily.

If you use the dishwasher, place both the basket and tray on the top rack only. The bottom rack's heat can damage the non-stick coating over time. Use a normal wash cycle and allow them to air-dry before reinserting them into the unit.

Cleaning the interior and heating element

The inside of your Breville air fryer needs far less attention than you might think. Once a month, unplug the unit, let it cool completely, and use a dry cloth to wipe down the interior walls and around the heating element. You're mainly removing dust and any loose crumbs that may have fallen during cooking.

The heating element itself — the coil at the top of the fryer — rarely accumulates grease because air fryers circulate hot air rather than submerging food in oil. If you notice a thin layer of dust on it, a gentle wipe with a dry cloth is all you need. Never spray water directly onto the heating element or use any liquid cleaner on it.

If you see stubborn buildup inside the fryer (which is uncommon), dampen a cloth with a 50/50 mixture of white vinegar and water, wring it out so it's barely damp, and wipe the interior gently. Allow the fryer to air-dry completely before plugging it back in.

What to avoid when cleaning

Never use steel wool, scouring pads, or abrasive brushes on any part of your Breville air fryer. These tools scratch and strip away the non-stick coating, which can cause food to stick and may release particles into your food over time. Soft sponges, microfiber cloths, and soft-bristled brushes are safe choices.

Avoid harsh chemical cleaners, oven cleaner, or bleach. These can damage the non-stick surface and leave residue that contaminates your food. Dish soap and water, or vinegar and water, are all you need. Never submerge the main unit itself in water — only the removable basket and tray should be washed this way.

Do not spray water directly into the heating element, vents, or electrical components. Water in these areas can cause electrical damage or create a safety hazard. Stick to wiping with a damp cloth that you've wrung out thoroughly.

Dealing with stubborn stuck-on food

If food has hardened onto the basket or tray, soaking is your best tool. Fill a sink or large bowl with warm water and a squirt of dish soap, place the affected part inside, and let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes. The warm water softens the food so it releases without you having to scrub hard.

After soaking, use a soft sponge or cloth to gently wipe the food away. If small bits remain, use a soft-bristled brush or an old toothbrush to dislodge them. Rinse well and dry before reinserting the basket and tray into the fryer.

For the interior of the fryer itself, never soak or pour water inside. If food has stuck to the interior walls, let the fryer cool completely, then use a damp cloth to soften the spot and gently wipe it away. A plastic scraper (not metal) can help dislodge stubborn bits without scratching the surface.

How often to deep clean your Breville air fryer

A quick wipe of the basket and tray after each use keeps your air fryer in good working order. Beyond that, a monthly interior wipe with a dry cloth is usually sufficient for most home cooks. If you use your air fryer several times a week, you may want to do a more thorough interior cleaning every two weeks.

Deep cleaning — removing the basket and tray, wiping the entire interior, and checking the heating element — should happen every three to six months, depending on how often you cook. If you notice any buildup, discoloration, or a change in how your food cooks, that's a sign the interior needs attention.

Never ignore visible grease or food particles inside the fryer, as they can affect cooking performance and potentially create a fire hazard. If you spot anything unusual, unplug the unit, let it cool, and clean it right away.

Maintaining the non-stick coating over time

The non-stick surface on your Breville basket and tray will last longer if you treat it gently. Always use soft cloths and sponges, never abrasive tools. Avoid stacking heavy items on top of the basket when it's not in the fryer, and don't store it in a way that puts pressure on the coating.

Over time, even with careful use, the non-stick coating may wear slightly. This is normal and doesn't mean your air fryer is unsafe — it just means food may stick a little more easily. If the coating becomes noticeably damaged or peeling, Breville sells replacement baskets and trays that are straightforward to swap in. Check your model number on the bottom of your unit and search for the correct replacement part on Breville's website or through kitchen appliance retailers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I put the basket in the dishwasher?

Yes, most Breville air fryer baskets are dishwasher-safe. Place them on the top rack only — the bottom rack's heat can damage the non-stick coating. Hand-washing with warm soapy water and a soft sponge works just as well and may extend the life of the coating.

What should I do if the heating element looks dirty?

A thin layer of dust on the heating element is normal and doesn't affect performance. Unplug the fryer, let it cool, and gently wipe it with a dry cloth. Never use water or liquid cleaners on the heating element itself, as this can cause electrical damage.

Is it safe to use vinegar to clean the inside of my air fryer?

Yes, a 50/50 mixture of white vinegar and water is safe for the interior. Wring out your cloth so it's barely damp, wipe gently, and allow the fryer to air-dry completely before plugging it back in. Never spray vinegar directly onto the heating element or electrical parts.

How do I know if the non-stick coating is damaged?

Look for visible scratches, peeling, or flaking on the basket or tray. Minor scratches don't affect safety, but if the coating is peeling or you see bare metal underneath, it's time to replace the basket or tray. Breville sells replacement parts that fit your specific model.

What if food is stuck inside the fryer itself, not just on the basket?

Let the fryer cool completely, then use a damp cloth to soften the stuck food and gently wipe it away. A plastic scraper can help dislodge stubborn bits without scratching. Never use metal tools or abrasive pads on the interior walls.