Air fryer is a product that many families have, but in the market, has different brands, types, and features, they all say they are the best, but what is the real situation? Our team purchased air fryers from various e-commerce platforms and officials. Then we test them in our labs and in real life use at home, we evaluate them in terms of actual performance, ease of use, energy efficiency and customer satisfaction.
Why Keeping Your Air Fryer Clean Matters
Air fryers have become a kitchen staple for their ability to whip up crispy, delicious meals with less oil. But to keep them performing at their best, regular cleaning is essential. A clean air fryer not only ensures your food tastes great but also extends the appliance’s lifespan and prevents potential health hazards like bacterial buildup or smoke from burnt residue. Neglecting maintenance can lead to greasy buildup, unpleasant odors, and even reduced cooking efficiency. Let’s dive into the six best ways to clean your air fryer, ensuring it stays in top shape for years.
Tools You’ll Need for Effective Cleaning
Before starting, gather a few basic supplies to make the process smooth and efficient. You’ll need:
- Soft sponge or cloth (non-abrasive to avoid scratching)
- Mild dish soap
- Warm water
- Microfiber towels for drying
- A soft-bristled brush (like a toothbrush) for tight spots
- White vinegar or baking soda for tough stains
- Optional: a small amount of lemon juice for odor removal
Having these tools ready will make cleaning easier and prevent damage to your air fryer’s non-stick surfaces. Always check your air fryer’s manual for specific cleaning instructions, as some parts may not be dishwasher-safe.
6 Best Ways to Clean Your Air Fryer
Here are six tried-and-true methods to keep your air fryer sparkling clean, tackling everything from daily maintenance to deep cleaning stubborn grease.
Method 1: Quick Wipe-Down After Every Use
The simplest way to maintain your air fryer is to clean it right after each use, once it’s cooled down. Unplug the unit and remove the basket or tray. Wipe the interior and exterior with a damp, soapy cloth or sponge, focusing on areas where grease tends to collect, like the basket’s edges. Dry thoroughly with a microfiber towel to prevent water spots or rust. This quick habit prevents buildup and makes deeper cleans less daunting. For a reliable guide on quick cleaning techniques, check out Good Housekeeping’s air fryer cleaning tips.
Method 2: Deep Clean the Basket and Tray
For a thorough clean, remove the basket and tray and soak them in warm, soapy water for 10-15 minutes. This loosens stuck-on food and grease. Use a soft sponge to gently scrub away residue, paying attention to crevices. For stubborn bits, a soft-bristled brush works wonders. Avoid abrasive scrubbers, as they can damage the non-stick coating. Rinse well and dry completely before reassembling. If your air fryer’s parts are dishwasher-safe, pop them in the dishwasher for an even easier clean—just double-check the manual first.
Method 3: Tackle Grease with Baking Soda Paste
Grease can be a pain, especially if it’s baked onto the basket or heating element. Make a paste with baking soda and a small amount of water, then apply it to greasy spots with a soft cloth. Let it sit for 10 minutes to break down the grease, then scrub gently and rinse. This method is chemical-free and highly effective. For particularly tough stains, combine baking soda with white vinegar for a fizzing reaction that lifts grime effortlessly.
Method 4: Clean the Heating Element and Interior
The heating element and interior chamber often get overlooked but can harbor grease and food splatter. Unplug the air fryer and let it cool completely. Flip it upside down (if safe to do so) to access the heating element. Use a damp cloth or soft brush dipped in soapy water to gently clean the element, being careful not to bend or damage it. Wipe the interior walls with a soapy cloth, then a clean, damp cloth to remove soap residue. Dry thoroughly. For more detailed steps, Bon Appétit’s cleaning guide offers great insights.
Method 5: Odor Removal with Lemon and Vinegar
Air fryers can absorb food odors, especially after cooking fish or heavily spiced dishes. To neutralize smells, mix equal parts water and white vinegar in the basket, then run the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes. Alternatively, wipe the interior with a cloth soaked in lemon juice, let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe clean. Both methods leave your air fryer smelling fresh without harsh chemicals.
Method 6: Dishwasher for Dishwasher-Safe Parts
If your air fryer’s manual confirms that parts like the basket or tray are dishwasher-safe, this can be a time-saver. Place the components in the dishwasher, ensuring they’re secure and not overcrowded. Use a gentle cycle with mild detergent to protect the non-stick coating. After the cycle, inspect for any remaining residue and hand-wash if needed. Always dry thoroughly before reassembling to avoid moisture buildup.
Best Air Fryers to Consider in 2025
Choosing a high-quality air fryer can make cleaning easier and enhance your cooking experience. Here are three top-rated models for 2025, each with features that simplify maintenance, along with real user feedback from Amazon.
Ninja AF101 Air Fryer
The Ninja AF101 is a favorite for its compact design and dishwasher-safe parts. Its 4-quart capacity is perfect for small families, and the non-stick basket makes cleaning a breeze. Shop the Ninja AF101 on Amazon.
User Review: “I love how easy this is to clean! The basket pops out, and I just throw it in the dishwasher. No scrubbing needed, and it cooks perfectly every time.” – Amazon Customer
COSORI Air Fryer Max XL
The COSORI Max XL offers a capacity and 11 preset cooking functions, with a removable, non-stick basket that’s dishwasher-safe. Its sleek design and easy-to-clean surfaces make it a top pick. Shop the COSORI Air Fryer Max XL on Amazon.
User Review: “This air fryer is a game-changer. The basket is super easy to clean, and the touchscreen is a nice touch. I use it almost daily!” – Amazon Customer
Instant Vortex Plus 6-in-1
The Instant Vortex Plus combines air frying, roasting, and baking capabilities in a 6-quart unit. Its stainless steel basket and tray are dishwasher-safe, and the clear window lets you monitor food without opening it. Shop the Instant Vortex Plus on Amazon.
User Review: “Cleaning is so simple with this air fryer. The parts come out easily, and I love that I can see the food cooking without opening it.” – Amazon Customer
How We Reviewed These Air Fryers
Our team of 8 people, tested 26 air fryers, after 3 weeks of real life use, cooking chicken wings, French fries and vegetables separately for air fryers, analyzing the taste, color of their production. At the same time, we also evaluated its performance, ease of use of the interface, size, capacity, energy consumption compared to the overall cost-effective evaluation. In addition to our own evaluations, we also compare the data reported by other authoritative media. So you can be assured of approval, these are all through our audit.
You can also quickly get the ideal air fryer for you with the tool we built below:
Buying Guide: How to Choose an Air Fryer That’s Easy to Clean
Selecting an air fryer that’s easy to maintain can save you time and effort. Here are key factors to consider when shopping for one in 2025:
Capacity and Size
Choose a capacity that suits your household. Smaller units (2-4 quarts) are ideal for individuals or couples, while larger models (5-8 quarts) work for families. Larger baskets may require more cleaning effort, so consider your willingness to scrub when picking a size.
Non-Stick Coating
Look for air fryers with high-quality non-stick coatings, as these prevent food from sticking and make cleanup easier. Check reviews to ensure the coating is durable and doesn’t peel after repeated use.
Dishwasher-Safe Parts
Models with dishwasher-safe baskets and trays save time. Always verify this feature in the product description or manual, as not all air fryers offer it.
Design and Accessibility
Air fryers with removable parts and accessible interiors are easier to clean. Models with smooth surfaces and fewer crevices prevent grease buildup. Some units, like those with clear windows, reduce the need to open the fryer, minimizing splatter.
Additional Features
Consider features like digital touchscreens for precise control or preset cooking modes for convenience. Some air fryers come with self-cleaning functions or accessories like silicone liners to simplify maintenance.
Tips to Prevent Messes in Your Air Fryer
Prevention is key to keeping your air fryer clean. Here are some practical tips to reduce messes:
- Use Parchment Liners: Air fryer-specific parchment liners catch drips and crumbs, making cleanup easier. Ensure they’re perforated for proper air circulation.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Overfilling the basket can cause food to stick and grease to splatter. Cook in batches for best results.
- Lightly Oil Food: A light spray of oil prevents sticking without creating excess grease.
- Regular Maintenance: Wipe down the fryer after every use to prevent grease from hardening.
For more tips on air fryer maintenance, The Kitchn’s guide offers practical advice.
Common Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid
To keep your air fryer in top condition, steer clear of these common pitfalls:
- Using Abrasive Tools: Steel wool or harsh scrubbers can damage non-stick surfaces.
- Ignoring the Heating Element: Neglecting this area can lead to smoke or burning smells during cooking.
- Leaving Moisture: Failing to dry parts completely can cause rust or mold.
- Cleaning While Hot: Always let the air fryer cool completely to avoid burns or damage.
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Final Summary
Our expert team, after 3 weeks of real use, and then according to the performance, intelligence, practicality, quality, price of the air fryer to go through a detailed analysis, for the above we recommend the dishwasher, you can rest assured that you can choose. If you have any questions, you can leave us a message in the comments section.
At the same time, we also provide a quick selection of dishwasher tool, you can use our tool, choose more in line with your product.