Clean the basket and tray after every use

The basket and crumb tray are the parts that need cleaning most often. Let the oven cool for at least 30 minutes after cooking, then slide out the basket from the front and the crumb tray from the bottom. Both are dishwasher-safe, so you can put them on the top rack of your dishwasher, or wash them by hand with warm soapy water and a soft sponge.

If food is stuck to the basket, soak it in warm water for 10 to 15 minutes before scrubbing. Use a non-abrasive sponge or cloth — avoid steel wool or rough scrubbers, which can damage the non-stick coating. Dry both pieces completely before putting them back in the oven.

The crumb tray collects grease and crumbs that fall during cooking. Empty it into the trash, then wipe it with a damp cloth or wash it. A clean tray prevents grease buildup and reduces smoke during your next use.

Key Takeaways

  • The basket and crumb tray are dishwasher-safe and should be cleaned after every use to prevent grease and food buildup.
  • The interior walls and heating elements need only a wipe-down with a damp cloth when cool; do not use water directly on the elements.
  • Never submerge the main unit or spray water inside the heating chamber, as this can damage the electrical components.
  • Baked-on food on the interior can be loosened by placing a bowl of water inside and running the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes, then wiping when cool.
  • Check the exterior vents monthly and clear any dust or debris with a dry cloth to keep the oven running efficiently.

Wipe the interior walls and glass door

Once the oven has cooled completely, use a damp cloth or soft sponge to wipe the interior walls and the glass door. This removes grease splatter and food residue. Wring out your cloth so it is damp but not dripping — you do not want water pooling inside the oven.

For stubborn, baked-on spots on the interior, fill a small oven-safe bowl with water and place it inside the oven. Set the temperature to 350°F and run it for about 10 minutes. The steam will loosen the stuck food. Let the oven cool, then wipe the softened residue away with a cloth.

The glass door can be cleaned the same way. If it is very dirty, you can use a glass cleaner on a cloth, but spray the cleaner onto the cloth first — never spray directly into the oven, as liquid can drip onto the heating elements.

Avoid water on the heating elements

The heating elements at the top and bottom of the oven should never be sprayed or soaked with water. If crumbs or grease have landed on them, wait for the oven to cool completely, then use a dry cloth or a soft brush to gently remove the debris. A small pastry brush works well for this.

If you see buildup on the elements that a dry brush will not remove, do not use water. Instead, run the oven empty at 400°F for 10 to 15 minutes. The heat will burn off light grease and debris. Let it cool, then check again. If heavy buildup remains, contact Ninja customer service — attempting to clean the elements with liquid can cause electrical damage.

Clean the exterior and vents

Wipe the outside of the oven with a dry or slightly damp cloth to remove dust and grease splatters. Pay attention to the vents on the back and sides — these can collect dust over time and reduce airflow, which makes the oven work harder and cook less evenly.

Use a dry cloth or a soft brush to clear dust from the exterior vents. If the vents are very clogged, a small handheld vacuum with a brush attachment can help. Do this monthly or whenever you notice dust buildup. Never spray water directly at the vents.

Handle stubborn grease buildup

If grease has hardened on the interior walls or basket, soak the basket in warm water with a small amount of dish soap for 15 to 20 minutes. For the interior walls, the steam method described above usually works. If grease is still stuck after steaming, let the oven cool and try wiping with a cloth dampened in a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water.

Avoid abrasive cleaners, scouring powders, or bleach — these can damage the non-stick coating and the oven's finish. Stick to soft cloths, non-abrasive sponges, and mild soap or vinegar solutions.

Store the oven properly between uses

After cleaning and drying all removable parts, store the oven in a cool, dry place. If you store it in a cabinet or enclosed space, make sure the vents are not blocked. Dust can accumulate on the exterior, so wipe it down before using the oven again if it has been stored for a while.

Keep the crumb tray in place even when the oven is not in use — this prevents dust from settling inside the cooking chamber. If you remove the basket for storage, store it in a clean, dry spot where it will not collect dust.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I put the basket in the dishwasher?

Yes. The basket is dishwasher-safe and can go on the top rack. The crumb tray is also dishwasher-safe. Both should be dried completely before returning them to the oven.

What should I do if the glass door is cloudy or stained?

Wipe it with a damp cloth first. If that does not work, spray glass cleaner onto a cloth and wipe the door. Never spray cleaner directly into the oven. For very stubborn stains, let the oven steam for 10 minutes as described above, then wipe when cool.

Is it safe to use oven cleaner inside the Ninja?

No. Commercial oven cleaners can damage the non-stick coating and the oven's interior finish. Stick to warm soapy water, vinegar solutions, and the steam method for stubborn spots.

How often should I clean the vents?

Check the exterior vents monthly and wipe away any dust with a dry cloth. If you use the oven frequently or in a dusty kitchen, you may need to clean them more often.

What if water gets inside the heating chamber by accident?

Unplug the oven when ready and let it dry completely — at least 24 hours — before plugging it back in. If water dripped on the heating elements, wait longer. If the oven does not work after drying, contact Ninja support.