MAPIHow to Clean an Air Fryer
Air fryers collect grease, crumbs, and food residue around the basket, tray, interior walls, and heating area. Cleaning these parts regularly helps prevent odors, smoke, and burnt residue from affecting later meals. Always unplug the appliance first and follow the manufacturer's care instructions, especially for nonstick parts and dishwasher-safe components.
Unplug the air fryer and let it cool, then remove the basket and tray and wash them with warm soapy water. Wipe the interior and heating area with a damp cloth, dry every part completely, and reassemble only when everything is fully dry.
Things you'll need
- Warm water
- Mild dish soap
- Soft sponge or microfiber cloth
- Soft toothbrush or small nylon brush
- Clean dry towel
Unplug and cool the air fryer
Turn the air fryer off, unplug it from the wall, and let it cool completely before cleaning. Remove the basket, crisper plate, tray, or other removable parts once they are safe to handle. Never clean the appliance while it is still connected to power.
Wash the removable parts
Wash the basket, tray, and other washable parts with warm water and a small amount of mild dish soap. Use a soft sponge so you do not scratch a nonstick coating. If the manual says the parts are dishwasher-safe, you can use the dishwasher instead.
Loosen stuck-on residue
For cooked-on grease or food, soak the removable basket or tray in warm soapy water for 10 to 15 minutes if the manufacturer allows soaking. Gently scrub softened residue with a soft nylon brush or sponge. Avoid metal utensils, steel wool, and abrasive pads that can damage the coating.
Wipe the interior
Use a damp microfiber cloth or soft sponge to wipe crumbs and grease from the inside of the air fryer. Keep water away from electrical openings and do not pour water directly into the main unit. Wipe again with a clean damp cloth if soap residue remains.
Clean around the heating element
When the appliance is unplugged and fully cool, check the heating area for grease or food splatter. If your manual allows access, wipe the area carefully with a lightly damp cloth or soft brush. Do not bend the heating element, saturate it with water, or use sharp tools.
Dry and reassemble the air fryer
Dry the basket, tray, interior, and exterior with a clean towel, then allow any remaining moisture to air-dry. Reassemble the air fryer only when every part is completely dry. Wipe the outside and control panel with a barely damp cloth, keeping moisture out of buttons and vents.
Tips & common mistakes
Tips for best results
- Wipe crumbs and fresh grease after the air fryer cools so residue does not harden between uses.
- Use silicone, wood, or other non-scratch utensils in the basket to help protect nonstick coatings.
- Clean under removable crisper plates because grease and crumbs often collect underneath them.
- If food starts smoking during cooking, check for old grease or crumbs near the basket and heating area.
- Follow the manufacturer's instructions for dishwasher use because high heat and detergent may affect some coated parts.
Common mistakes
- Cleaning while the air fryer is plugged in: Always disconnect power and let the appliance cool first.
- Immersing the main unit in water: The body contains electrical components and should only be wiped as directed by the manufacturer.
- Using steel wool or abrasive pads: They can scratch nonstick surfaces and damage protective coatings.
- Pouring water directly into the appliance: Excess moisture can reach electrical components or vents.
- Reassembling wet parts: Trapped moisture can cause odors and may reach areas that should stay dry.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I clean my air fryer?
Wipe away crumbs and grease after use once the appliance is cool, and wash removable parts regularly. A deeper cleaning is useful whenever grease, odors, or cooked-on residue begin to build up.
Can I put air fryer parts in the dishwasher?
Only if the manufacturer says those specific parts are dishwasher-safe. Some baskets and trays have coatings that may last longer with gentle hand washing.
Can I use oven cleaner inside an air fryer?
Avoid oven cleaner unless the air fryer manufacturer specifically approves it. Strong chemicals can damage coatings and may leave residue near food-contact surfaces.
How do I remove baked-on grease from an air fryer basket?
Soak the removable basket in warm soapy water if the manual allows it, then gently scrub the softened grease with a non-scratch sponge or soft nylon brush.
Why does my air fryer smoke even after cleaning the basket?
Grease or food residue may be trapped near the heating element or inside the main cooking chamber. Unplug and cool the appliance, inspect accessible areas, and clean only as directed in the manual.
Written by Mapiance Editorial Team
The Mapiance Editorial Team researches, writes, reviews, and maintains practical guides and explainers for MAPIANCE.
Published Aug 22, 2026 · Updated Sep 30, 2026