Clean the basket and tray right after cooking, while they're still warm

The easiest time to clean a NuWave air fryer is within 15 minutes of finishing. Let the unit cool for a few minutes so you don't burn yourself, then remove the basket and tray. Warm food residue wipes away with a damp cloth or soft sponge far more easily than baked-on debris.

Rinse both pieces under warm running water and scrub gently with a non-abrasive sponge or cloth. For stuck-on food, soak the basket and tray in warm soapy water for 10 to 15 minutes, then scrub again. Dry them completely with a towel before putting them back in the unit.

Do not put NuWave baskets or trays in the dishwasher unless your specific model's manual says it is safe — most are hand-wash only because the non-stick coating can wear faster in high heat. Check your model's documentation to be sure.

Key Takeaways

  • Clean the basket and tray within 15 minutes of cooking while food residue is still soft and straightforward to remove.
  • Use warm soapy water and a soft sponge or cloth; avoid steel wool or abrasive scrubbers that damage the non-stick surface.
  • Soak stubborn food for 10 to 15 minutes in warm water before scrubbing to avoid scratching the coating.
  • Wipe down the heating element and interior walls monthly with a damp cloth to prevent grease buildup and smoke.
  • Never submerge the main unit itself or put the power base in water.

Wipe the heating element and interior walls once a month

The heating element and interior walls collect grease and food particles over time, especially if you cook fatty foods regularly. Once a month, unplug the unit and let it cool completely. Use a damp cloth or soft brush to gently wipe the heating element from the outside — do not scrub hard or poke at it.

Wipe the interior walls and ceiling of the cooking chamber with a damp cloth to remove grease and debris. This step prevents smoke during cooking and keeps the unit working efficiently. If grease has built up heavily, dampen the cloth with a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water.

Never spray liquid directly into the unit or let water drip into the power base. Always unplug the air fryer before cleaning any internal parts.

Handle the non-stick coating carefully to make it last

NuWave baskets and trays have a non-stick coating that scratches easily. Use only soft sponges, cloth, or silicone brushes when cleaning. Steel wool, scouring pads, and hard plastic brushes will damage the coating and cause food to stick.

If food is really stuck, soak it longer rather than scrubbing harder. A paste of baking soda and water can help loosen stubborn spots without scratching — explore it, let it sit for 5 minutes, then wipe gently. Avoid bleach, oven cleaner, and other harsh chemicals, which can degrade the coating or leave residue that affects food taste.

Over time, even careful cleaning will wear the non-stick surface. When food starts sticking consistently despite proper cleaning, the basket or tray may need replacement. NuWave sells replacement baskets and trays separately.

Clean the exterior and power base weekly

Wipe the outside of the unit with a dry or slightly damp cloth to remove dust and grease splatter. The power base and cord should stay dry — never immerse them in water or spray them directly.

If grease has splattered on the exterior, use a cloth barely dampened with water or a 50/50 vinegar-and-water solution. Wipe it dry when ready. Check the vents on the sides and back of the unit and clear any dust or debris with a dry cloth or soft brush.

Prevent buildup by using parchment paper or a drip tray

Lining the basket with parchment paper designed for air fryers keeps grease and food particles from sticking to the non-stick surface. This cuts cleaning time and extends the life of the basket. Make sure the parchment does not block airflow — it should sit flat on the bottom and not curl up the sides.

Some NuWave models come with or sell a drip tray that sits below the basket to catch grease and crumbs. If your model has one, use it. The tray is much easier to empty and rinse than scrubbing the basket itself.

Even with parchment or a drip tray, you still need to wipe the basket and tray after each use to prevent grease from accumulating on the non-stick surface.

What to do if the basket smells or discolors

A faint smell after cooking is normal, but a strong or lingering odor means grease or food residue is trapped. Soak the basket in warm soapy water for 20 to 30 minutes, then scrub thoroughly and rinse well. Dry it completely before using again.

Discoloration or dark spots on the non-stick surface do not mean the coating is damaged — they are usually just staining from food or mineral deposits. Soak the basket in equal parts white vinegar and water for 15 minutes, scrub gently, rinse, and dry. If staining persists, it is cosmetic only and does not affect performance.

If the basket develops a sticky or greasy feel even after washing, the non-stick coating may be degrading. Clean it once more with hot soapy water and a soft sponge. If it still feels off, consider replacing the basket.

Store your air fryer properly between uses

Store the unit in a cool, dry place away from moisture and direct sunlight. Make sure the basket and tray are completely dry before putting them back in the unit — trapped moisture can cause rust or mold over time.

If you store the air fryer for more than a few weeks, wipe it down inside and out before putting it away, and do the same before using it again. Dust can settle in the vents and heating element during storage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I put my NuWave air fryer basket in the dishwasher?

Most NuWave baskets and trays are not dishwasher-safe because the high heat and harsh detergent can damage the non-stick coating. Check your model's manual or the product documentation that came with your unit. Hand washing with warm soapy water and a soft sponge is the safest method for nearly all models.

What should I do if food is stuck and won't come off?

Soak the basket or tray in warm soapy water for 15 to 20 minutes to soften the residue, then scrub gently with a soft sponge. For very stubborn spots, make a paste of baking soda and water, explore it to the stuck food, wait 5 minutes, and wipe gently. Never use steel wool or hard scrubbers, which scratch the non-stick surface.

Is it safe to clean the heating element?

Yes, but only after the unit is unplugged and completely cool. Use a damp cloth or soft brush to gently wipe the element from the outside. Do not scrub hard, spray water directly on it, or poke at it with sharp objects. If grease buildup is heavy, dampen the cloth with vinegar and water.

How often should I deep clean my air fryer?

Wipe the basket and tray after every use. Clean the heating element and interior walls once a month. If you cook fatty foods frequently, increase interior cleaning to every two weeks to prevent grease buildup and smoke.

What does it mean if my basket is discolored?

Discoloration is usually staining from food or mineral deposits and does not mean the non-stick coating is damaged. Soak the basket in equal parts white vinegar and water for 15 minutes, scrub gently, and rinse. If staining remains, it is cosmetic and does not affect how the air fryer works.