Your air fryer may be dirtier than you think. Here's how to clean it

Air fryers have become a regular part of many kitchens, helping with everything from reheating leftovers to making fries and roasting vegetables. But frequent use also means grease, crumbs and food residue can collect inside the basket, tray and even around the heating element. If left unchecked, this build-up can affect cooking, leave unpleasant smells and make food taste of what was cooked earlier. The good news is that cleaning an air fryer at home does not require expensive products. A few simple habits can keep it working well and make deep cleaning much easier.advertisement❮❯ Read Full Story1. SOAK THE BASKET AND TRAY FIRSTThe basket and tray collect most of the grease and stuck food. Instead of scrubbing them aggressively while they are dry, fill them with warm, soapy water and let them soak for around 15 to 20 minutes.

This helps loosen baked-on residue before you start cleaning. After soaking, use a soft sponge or non-abrasive brush. An old toothbrush can help clean corners, mesh and difficult spots.

Rinse the parts thoroughly and allow them to dry completely. Avoid harsh scrubbing, as it can damage the non-stick coating over time.

The interior walls and area around the heating element can collect a thin layer of grease and food splatter. These parts need a gentler approach.

Use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe the inside walls. For the heating coil, a soft brush is more suitable. Do not pour water directly into the appliance or allow the heating element to come into direct contact with water.

For stubborn grease, a small amount of water mixed with vinegar or a light baking soda paste can be applied to a cloth before wiping. Avoid abrasive materials and excessive pressure.3. CLEAN IT REGULARLY, NOT ONLY WHEN IT SMELLS

The easiest way to keep an air fryer clean is to avoid letting residue accumulate. Give the basket and interior a quick wipe after every use, especially when cooking oily or heavily seasoned food.

Using parchment liners, where suitable for your model, can also reduce residue. A light coat of oil applied with a brush may be preferable to aerosol cooking sprays, which can leave a film that is harder to remove and may affect the coating over time.

Along with daily wiping, give the appliance a more thorough clean once a week to prevent stubborn grease, lingering odours and flavours from transferring between dishes.

Safety note: Always unplug the air fryer and let it cool completely before cleaning. Check the user manual for model-specific instructions and keep water away from electrical components.- EndsPublished By: vaishnavi parasharPublished On: Sep 12, 2026 16:36 IST