Air fryers have completely changed the way we cook at home, they help us whip up crispier, healthier meals with less oil and in a fraction of the time. Who doesn’t love that?

But like any kitchen gadget we rely on daily, they need a bit of regular care to keep working their best.  Noticed a lingering smell lately? Or maybe your fries aren’t as crispy as they used to be? Then it might be time to give your air fryer a proper clean.

Cleaning your air fryer can seem tricky, especially when dealing with stubborn residue, protecting the non-stick coating, and carefully cleaning delicate parts like the heating element and the main unit.

In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how we deep clean our air fryer, step by step. We’ll share the tools we use, the little tricks we’ve picked up along the way, and the cleaning routine we recommend to keep your air fryer fresh, efficient, and ready for your next craving!

Why Regular Air Fryer Cleaning Is Important

If there’s one thing we’ve figured out after using our air fryer almost every day, it’s this: a clean air fryer makes everything better.

We’ve seen it ourselves, odd smells when you turn it on, smoke coming out for no reason, or uneven cooking where half your food is burnt and the other half is still pale. And honestly, in most cases, it’s just because the air fryer hasn’t been cleaned properly.

What happens is, little bits of food, oil, and crumbs get trapped inside. They stick to the basket, the tray, and even around the heating element. And the next time you cook, those leftovers heat up again, releasing odd smells and messing with the flavor of whatever you’re making. We definitely don’t want last night’s BBQ wings flavor sneaking into our next batch of fries, right?  

Basket cleanup isn’t optional: it’s crucial. One thing we’ve noticed that makes a big difference is choosing the right basket. Some materials are just easier to clean and help prevent that stubborn buildup in the first place. Silicone baskets, like the ones from Ricardo, are brilliant because food doesn’t stick as much and you can pop them right out to clean.

Ricardo - 9.5" x 9.5" Silicone Air fryer Basket

We’re also big fans of the diverse options from StarFrit and Zwilling, both offer versatile, practical air fryer options and accessories that are sturdy, easy to clean, and built to handle regular use without a fuss. Whether you’re after a multi-function model or a sleek appliance that fits effortlessly into your kitchen routine, having reliable, well-designed gear like this makes it so much easier to keep your air fryer fresh, efficient, and free from lingering flavors.

StarFrit - 7 In 1 Indoor Airfryer Grill

We’ve also noticed that a clean air fryer simply cooks better. The airflow stays strong, the heat spreads evenly, and everything crisps up the way it should. Plus, let’s be honest, a greasy, dirty appliance sitting on the kitchen counter isn’t a great look. And if left too long, those food bits can become a breeding ground for bacteria, definitely something you want to avoid in your kitchen.

The Best Way to Clean an Air Fryer

When learning how to clean an air fryer the right way, we think it’s essential to gather the right tools and follow a careful step-by-step process.

What You’ll Need

• Microfiber cloth or sponge
• Dish soap
• Soft-bristled brush or toothbrush
• White vinegar
• Baking soda (optional, for tough grease)

Step-by-Step: How to Deep Clean an Air Fryer

1. Remove and Soak Removable Parts

Take out the air fryer basket, tray, and pan. Soak them in warm, soapy water for about 15-20 minutes to loosen stuck-on food and grease.

2. Clean the Air Fryer Basket and Interior

After soaking, scrub the basket with a sponge or soft brush. For tough bits, a little baking soda paste does the trick without scratching. Then, wipe down the inside of the air fryer with a damp, soapy cloth, just be gentle around the heating element.

3. How to Clean Air Fryer Heating Element

Use a soft brush or non-abrasive sponge dampened with warm water and a little vinegar to remove grease and food residue from the heating element. For stubborn spots, allow vinegar to sit for a few minutes before wiping clean.

4. Addressing Air Fryer Odors

If your air fryer smells bad after use, try wiping the interior with a 1:1 solution of white vinegar and water. Let it sit for 10 minutes before rinsing with a clean, damp cloth. This method also helps disinfect and neutralize lingering smells.

5. Remove Grease from Air Fryer Components

Greasy buildup is a common issue with frequent use. White vinegar is effective at cutting through grease. For tough spots, sprinkle baking soda and spray with vinegar, let it fizz, then scrub gently.

6. Clean the Exterior

Use a damp microfiber cloth to wipe the outer shell of the air fryer. Be careful not to allow water to enter the button panel or power supply area.

7. Dry and Reassemble

Thoroughly dry all parts with a clean towel before reassembling the air fryer. Never store it while damp, as this can lead to mold or electrical issues.

Our Chef's Tips for Long-Term Air Fryer Maintenance

Let’s be honest, if you treat your air fryer well, it’ll treat you even better. Here a few habits that help keep it in top shape:

For starters, skip the preheat unless it’s really necessary, most air fryers heat up super quickly!

Ditch the metal utensils: nothing ruins an air fryer basket faster than scratches from forks, tongs, or spatulas made of metal. They can damage the non-stick coating, making your basket harder to clean and causing food to stick over time. Stick with silicone, nylon, or wooden tools, your air fryer (and your snacks) will benefit from it.

Don’t overcrowd the basket. It’s tempting, we know, but it makes a mess and cooks your food unevenly. And once you’re done and everything’s clean and dry, find it a nice, dry spot to rest. Simple things, but they make a big difference.

Another pro tip? Stick to air fryer-friendly foods. Not everything belongs in an air fryer. Crispy veggies, fries, chicken wings, and pastries? Absolutely. But battered foods or anything super liquidy can drip, cause a mess, and damage your air fryer over time. When in doubt, check your manual or start with a small test batch!

Ricardo - 7.6 QT Large Basket Air Fryer
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Your Air Fryer

Now, cleaning an air fryer isn’t rocket science, but there are a few mistakes we’ve seen people make (and yep, we’ve been guilty of a couple ourselves in the past).

First, never use harsh chemical cleaners. Those aggressive products might seem like a quick fix for stubborn grease, but they can actually ruin the non-stick coating on your basket and trays. We always stick to gentle, kitchen-friendly cleaners.

Another thing to remember: you can soak the removable parts, sure, but never, ever dunk the whole air fryer in water. It sounds obvious, but trust us, accidents happen. The main unit houses all the electrical components, and water is definitely not its friend.

And whatever you do, don’t ignore the heating element. It’s easy to forget since it’s tucked away at the top, but keeping it clean is key if you want your air fryer to stay efficient and cook evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I deep clean my air fryer?

We get this question a lot! While we think cleaning the basket after every use is mandatory, we'd recommend a deep clean at least once a month, in addition to wiping down key components.

How can I get rid of a bad smell in my air fryer?

Clean the interior with a vinegar-water solution and ensure all food residue is removed. Let it air out completely before the next use.

Can I wash air fryer parts in the dishwasher?

If your air fryer has removable parts like the basket and tray, many of them are dishwasher-safe. Just make sure to check your manual first. When in doubt, we prefer washing them by hand with warm soapy water and a soft sponge to keep that non-stick coating in top shape. 

Is it safe to clean the heating element?

Yes, as long as the air fryer is unplugged and cooled. Use a soft brush and vinegar solution for best results without damaging it.

Conclusion: Keep Your Air Fryer Clean and Efficient

Bottom line? Now that you know how easy it is to clean your air fryer properly, just make it part of your routine. Learning how to clean an air fryer the right way is crucial for hygiene, performance, and extending the appliance’s life. It only takes a couple of minutes, and your food, and your future self, will thank you for it.