How to Clean Air Fryer?

Let’s be honest: the air fryer oven is a modern kitchen miracle. It turns frozen French fries into crispy perfection and chicken wings into juicy, golden delights without submerging them in a vat of oil. It’s fast, healthy, and convenient.

But there is one tiny catch. Over time, that miracle machine starts to look... well, a little greasy. If you’ve ever opened your air fryer oven basket only to be greeted by a sticky, baked-on layer of brown gunk and the faint smell of last week’s salmon, you know exactly what I mean.

Not only is a dirty air fryer oven unappetizing, but it’s also a fire hazard and a flavor-ruiner. That old carbonized grease can start smoking during cooking or transfer a burnt, bitter taste to your fresh batch of donuts.

Don't worry, though. Cleaning an air fryer oven isn’t hard, but it is specific. You can’t just throw the whole machine in the dishwasher (please don’t). Here is the ultimate, step-by-step guide to making your air fryer oven look brand new again.

Step 1: Safety First (Wait for it to Cool!)

I know you just finished eating and you want to clean up while the mess is fresh. That’s a great instinct. But if you touch the heating element or the hot basket right after cooking, you will get burned.

Let the appliance cool down for 15-20 minutes. The basket should be warm to the touch, not scorching. Warm is actually good for cleaning (it loosens grease), but hot is dangerous.

Step 2: Unplug the Machine

This is crucial. Never, ever stick anything into the air fryer oven while it is plugged in. Even if it’s turned off, a static shock or accidental button press could activate the heating element. Unplug it first.

Step 3: The Dismantling

Take your air fryer oven apart. You should have:

The outer housing (the main body with the fan and heating coil).

The basket (the drawer that pulls out).

The crisper plate / tra.

Set the main housing aside. You will not submerge this in water. The basket and the crisper plate are your primary targets.

Step 4: The "Hot Soapy Bath" (Don't Skip This)

Do not just run the basket under water and scrub. That pushes grease down the drain and clogs your pipes.

The correct procedure is to fill the sink with hot water (as hot as possible) and add plenty of dish soap. Immerse the baskets and food containers in the hot water.

Let them soak for at least 15 minutes. If you haven't cleaned it in months, let them soak for an hour. This breaks down the polymerized oil that turns into that sticky, plastic-like film.

Step 5: Clean the Air Fryer Oven Interior

For the inside cavity, wipe with a damp cloth or sponge and mild detergent. Avoid abrasive cleaners. For stubborn grease, let the soapy cloth sit on the spot for a few minutes before wiping. After cleaning, use a clean, damp cloth to remove any soap residue, then dry the cavity thoroughly with a soft towel.

Step 6: The Scrubbing Technique

After the soak, grab a non-abrasive sponge (blue sponge, not the green Scotch-Brite ones—those will scratch the non-stick coating).

For the basket: Use the soft side of the sponge. For stuck-on bits, use a soft-bristled brush or a silicone scrubber.

For the crisper plate: This usually gets the dirtiest. Use an old toothbrush to get into the tiny grates.

Step 7: Dry Everything Completely (This is critical)

Do not put wet parts back into the machine. Moisture trapped inside can cause rust, electrical shorts, or mold.

Dry the basket and plate with a towel, then let them air dry on a rack for 30 minutes.

DO NOT put the main housing in the dishwasher. You will fry the electronics and ruin your machine.

DO NOT use steel wool. It will scratch the non-stick surface, causing food to stick forever.

How Often Should You Clean It?

After every use: Wipe the basket with a paper towel while it's still warm. If you just cooked something non-greasy (like toast or veggies), you can wait. But if you cooked chicken thighs or bacon? Clean it immediately.

Deep clean (as described above): Every 3-5 uses, or whenever you see visible smoke or smell burning oil.

Now, enjoy your dinner without worrying about the lingering taste of last week's terrible meal.