Clean the basket and tray after every use
The basket and crisper tray are the parts that touch your food, so they need cleaning right after you cook. Let them cool for about five minutes, then remove them from the unit. Wash both pieces by hand in warm soapy water with a soft sponge or cloth — do not put them in the dishwasher, as the high heat can damage the non-stick coating.
For stuck-on food, soak the basket and tray in warm soapy water for 10 to 15 minutes before scrubbing. Use a soft brush or non-abrasive sponge to avoid scratching the surface. Dry them completely with a clean towel before putting them back in the unit. Any moisture left inside can cause rust or electrical problems.
If you notice the non-stick coating starting to peel or flake, stop using that piece and contact Ninja customer service — using a damaged basket can put small particles into your food.
Key Takeaways
- Wash the basket and tray by hand in warm soapy water after every use, never in the dishwasher.
- Wipe the heating element and interior walls with a damp cloth once a week to prevent grease buildup.
- Never submerge the main unit or spray water directly into the heating chamber.
- Check the air vents on the back and sides monthly and clear any dust or debris with a dry cloth.
- If grease has hardened inside, soak a cloth in warm water and hold it against the spot for a few minutes before wiping.
Wipe the interior walls and heating element weekly
Once a week, unplug the unit and let it cool completely. Use a damp cloth (not dripping wet) to wipe down the interior walls where grease tends to collect. Pay special attention to the sides and bottom of the cooking chamber. Do not touch the heating element directly — just wipe around it gently.
If grease has baked on and dried hard, dampen a cloth in warm water and hold it against the spot for a few minutes to soften it, then wipe it away. Never use abrasive scrubbers, steel wool, or harsh chemicals inside the unit. These can damage the non-stick surfaces and the heating element.
Never submerge the main unit or spray water inside
The main housing of your Ninja Crispi contains the heating element, fan, and electrical components. Water inside the unit can cause a short circuit or permanent damage. Never submerge it, spray it with a hose, or pour water directly into the cooking chamber.
If you need to clean the interior thoroughly, unplug the unit, let it cool, and use only a damp cloth — squeeze out excess water so the cloth is barely moist. Wipe quickly and let the unit air-dry for at least 30 minutes before plugging it back in.
Clear the air vents monthly
The vents on the back and sides of your air fryer pull in air to circulate heat. Over time, dust and grease particles can block them, which makes the unit work harder and cook less evenly. Once a month, unplug the unit and use a dry cloth or soft brush to wipe away any dust or debris from the exterior vents.
If you see grease buildup around the vents, use a damp cloth to wipe it away, then dry the area when ready. Do not poke anything into the vents — you could damage the fan inside.
Clean the exterior with a soft, dry cloth
The outside of your Ninja Crispi can be wiped down with a soft, dry cloth whenever it looks dusty or has splatters. If there are sticky spots from cooking spray or oil, use a barely damp cloth and dry it right away. Do not use abrasive cleaners, vinegar, or harsh chemicals on the exterior — they can damage the finish or the control panel.
If the control buttons feel sticky, dampen a cloth very slightly and wipe around them (not directly on them), then dry when ready. Never spray cleaner directly onto the unit.
What to do if your air fryer smells bad
A burnt or acrid smell usually means grease or food particles have built up inside and are burning off. Unplug the unit, let it cool, and wipe the interior walls and bottom thoroughly with a damp cloth. Make sure the basket and tray are clean and dry before the next use.
If the smell persists after cleaning, run the unit empty at 400°F for 10 minutes with the door open (if your model allows it) to burn off any remaining residue. If the smell is chemical or electrical, stop using the unit and contact Ninja support — this can indicate a problem with the heating element or wiring.
Replace parts if they wear out
The basket and crisper tray will eventually show wear — scratches, discoloration, or peeling non-stick coating are normal after months of use. When this happens, you can order replacement parts directly from Ninja's website or through retailers that sell Ninja products. Having a spare basket means you can clean one while using the other.
The heating element and fan are not user-replaceable parts. If either stops working, the unit will need to be serviced or replaced — contact Ninja customer service with your model number and purchase date.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I put the basket in the dishwasher?
No. The dishwasher's high heat and harsh detergents damage the non-stick coating. Always wash the basket and tray by hand in warm soapy water with a soft sponge.
What should I use to scrub stuck-on food?
Soak the basket in warm soapy water for 10 to 15 minutes, then scrub gently with a soft sponge or non-abrasive brush. Avoid steel wool, scouring pads, and sharp utensils — these scratch the non-stick surface.
Is it safe to spray water inside the unit to clean it?
No. Water can damage the heating element and electrical components. Use only a damp cloth to wipe the interior, and make sure it is barely moist — squeeze out excess water before wiping.
How often should I clean my air fryer?
Wash the basket and tray after every use. Wipe the interior walls weekly and check the air vents monthly. Regular cleaning prevents grease buildup and keeps the unit working efficiently.
What does a burning smell mean?
Usually it means grease or food particles are burning inside. Clean the interior and basket thoroughly, then run the unit empty at 400°F for 10 minutes to clear any remaining residue. If the smell is chemical or electrical, stop using the unit and contact Ninja support.