Unplug and cool it, wash the basket and plate in warm soapy water (or the dishwasher if your manual allows), and wipe the inside. Soak baked-on grease, never scrape it.
After every use
- Unplug and let it cool for about 30 minutes.
- Pour off the fat from the drawer into the bin, not the sink.
- Wash the basket and crisper plate in warm water with dish soap and a soft sponge. Many are dishwasher-safe, but check your manual; hand washing makes coatings last longer.
- Wipe the outside and the drawer opening with a damp cloth.
- Dry everything fully before putting it back.
Washing after every use takes two minutes and stops grease from baking on, which is what makes later cleaning hard.
Deep clean for baked-on grease
- Fill the drawer with hot water and a few drops of dish soap, then soak the basket and plate for 20–30 minutes.
- For stubborn spots, make a paste of baking soda and a little water. Leave it on for 10 minutes.
- Scrub gently with a soft brush or the soft side of a sponge.
- Rinse well and dry. Repeat the soak rather than scrubbing harder.
Do this every few weeks, or whenever you notice smoke or old smells during cooking. Those usually come from built-up grease.
Cleaning the heating element
Grease and crumbs can collect on the element above the basket. With the fryer unplugged and fully cool, turn it upside down or tilt it on its back on a towel so you can see the element. Wipe it gently with a damp cloth or soft brush. Don't spray liquid into the unit or soak it, and never put the main body in water. If your manual says the element shouldn't be touched, follow that instead.
What to avoid
| Avoid | Why | Use instead |
|---|---|---|
| Steel wool, metal scourers | Scratch nonstick and ceramic coatings | Soft brush or sponge |
| Metal utensils in the basket | Scratch the coating | Silicone-tipped tongs |
| Aerosol cooking spray | Additives can build up and damage the coating | Refillable oil mister or brush |
| Oven cleaner | Harsh chemicals damage coatings and plastics | Baking soda paste |
| Submerging the main unit | Electrical hazard | Damp cloth only |
Questions people ask
Why does my air fryer smoke?
Usually fat dripping onto old grease in the drawer, or grease on the element. Clean both, and pour off fat during long cooks like bacon.
Do liners make cleaning easier?
Yes, perforated parchment or silicone liners catch drips. Make sure they don't block all the holes, and never preheat with an empty loose liner.
When should I replace the basket?
If the coating is peeling or flaking, contact the manufacturer for a replacement basket.
Related guides
Reviewed October 2026. Temperatures from Health Canada and the USDA; see Sources.