Clean your air fryer after every use while the basket is still warm

The easiest time to clean an air fryer is right after you finish cooking, when food residue is still soft and hasn't hardened onto the surfaces. Unplug the unit, let it cool for about five minutes until it's warm but safe to touch, then remove the basket and any removable trays.

Wipe the inside of the basket with a damp cloth or soft sponge to remove loose crumbs and oil. For stuck-on food, soak the basket in warm soapy water for 10 to 15 minutes, then scrub gently with a non-abrasive sponge. Rinse thoroughly and dry completely before putting it back in the unit. Most air fryer baskets are dishwasher-safe, but check your manual first — some non-stick coatings can wear faster in the dishwasher.

Key Takeaways

  • Clean the basket and tray when ready after cooking while food is still soft, which takes five minutes and prevents buildup.
  • Use only non-abrasive sponges and soft cloths on the non-stick coating to avoid scratches that trap food and bacteria.
  • Wipe the heating element and interior walls monthly with a damp cloth to remove grease spray and prevent smoke during cooking.
  • Never submerge the main unit in water or use a dishwasher on it — only the removable basket and tray can go in the dishwasher if your manual allows.
  • A light coating of oil on the basket before cooking reduces sticking and makes cleanup faster the next time.

Wipe the heating element and interior walls monthly

Oil and food particles spray upward during cooking and settle on the heating element and the interior walls above the basket. This buildup causes smoke, uneven cooking, and a burnt smell. Once a month, or more often if you cook fatty foods regularly, unplug the unit and let it cool completely.

Use a damp cloth or soft sponge to gently wipe the heating element from below — never scrub it hard or poke it with anything sharp. Wipe the interior walls and the top of the unit as well. If you see stubborn grease, dampen the cloth with a little white vinegar, which cuts through oil without damaging the non-stick surfaces. Let everything air-dry before plugging the unit back in.

Avoid scratching the non-stick coating

The non-stick surface inside the basket and on removable trays is what makes cleanup fast, but it scratches easily. Never use steel wool, scouring pads, or abrasive cleaners on these surfaces. Scratches trap food particles and bacteria, make the coating less effective, and can eventually flake off into your food.

Stick to soft sponges, cloth towels, and plastic or silicone scrapers. If food is really stuck, soak the basket longer rather than scrubbing harder. For the exterior of the unit, a damp cloth works fine — the outside isn't non-stick and can handle a little more scrubbing if needed.

Never submerge the main unit or use a dishwasher on it

The main air fryer body contains the heating element, fan, and electrical components. Water inside the unit will damage it permanently. Only the removable basket and tray can be cleaned in water or the dishwasher — and only if your manual says they're dishwasher-safe.

To clean the main unit itself, unplug it and use a damp cloth on the exterior and interior walls. For the interior, wring out the cloth so it's barely damp, not dripping. Never spray water directly into the unit, and never put the whole thing in water or a dishwasher.

Use a light oil coating to reduce sticking and cleanup time

A very light spray or brush of cooking oil on the basket before you add food reduces sticking and makes the next cleanup much faster. You don't need much — just enough to coat the surface lightly. This is especially helpful when cooking foods that tend to stick, like chicken breast or fish.

After cooking, the oil residue wipes away easily with a damp cloth. This approach also extends the life of the non-stick coating because you're not scrubbing as hard to remove stuck food. Use an oil with a high smoke point, like vegetable, canola, or avocado oil — avoid olive oil, which can break down at air fryer temperatures.

Clean the exterior and vents regularly

Dust and grease can collect on the outside of the unit and block the air vents, which reduces cooking performance. Wipe the exterior with a damp cloth once a week, paying special attention to the vents on the back and sides. Make sure nothing is blocking the air intake or exhaust — keep the unit at least four inches away from walls and cabinets.

If you notice dust buildup inside the vents, use a dry cloth or a soft brush to gently remove it. Never use a vacuum cleaner on the vents, as the static can damage the electrical components. A clean exterior also helps the unit last longer and cook more evenly.

Handle stubborn stains and odors

If the basket develops stubborn stains or the unit smells burnt even after cleaning, soak the basket in warm water with a little baking soda for 20 to 30 minutes, then scrub gently. Baking soda is mild enough not to scratch the non-stick coating but strong enough to lift discoloration and odors.

For lingering smells inside the main unit, run the air fryer empty at 350°F for five minutes with the door open (if your model allows) to burn off residual odors. If the smell persists, check that you're not cooking at too high a temperature or leaving food in too long — both cause burnt smells that cleaning alone won't fix.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use vinegar or lemon juice to clean my air fryer?

Yes, white vinegar is safe for the non-stick surfaces and cuts through grease well. Mix equal parts vinegar and water, dampen a cloth, and wipe the interior and basket. Avoid vinegar on the heating element itself — stick to water for that. Lemon juice works similarly but is less effective on heavy grease.

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

Soak the basket in warm soapy water for 15 to 20 minutes to soften the food, then use a soft sponge or plastic scraper to gently lift it away. If it's still stuck, soak longer rather than scrubbing harder. Never use a metal utensil or steel wool, which will scratch the coating.

Is it safe to put the basket in the dishwasher?

Check your air fryer's manual first — most baskets are dishwasher-safe, but some manufacturers recommend hand washing to extend the non-stick coating's life. If your manual allows the dishwasher, use the top rack and a gentle cycle. Hand washing with a soft sponge is gentler and usually lasts longer.

How often should I deep clean my air fryer?

A quick wipe of the basket after every use and a monthly wipe of the heating element and interior walls is usually enough. If you cook fatty foods several times a week, clean the heating element every two weeks instead. A full deep clean — soaking the basket and scrubbing all interior surfaces — is needed only once or twice a year unless you notice buildup.

Why does my air fryer smell burnt even after I clean it?

A burnt smell usually means food particles or grease are burning on the heating element or interior walls, not that the unit is dirty. Clean the heating element and walls thoroughly, then check that you're not cooking at too high a temperature or leaving food in too long. If the smell continues, the heating element may be failing and need replacement.