6 Air Fryer Cleaning Hacks

Air fryers make it easy to cook crispy, delicious meals with less oil, but they still need regular cleaning to keep them performing at their best. Grease, crumbs and food residue can build up over time, causing lingering odours, smoke and stubborn stains.

The good news? Cleaning your air fryer does not have to be a hassle. With these six simple air fryer cleaning hacks, you can keep your Instant Pot Air Fryer looking fresh, working well and ready for your next meal.

For a full clean from basket to heating element, follow our step-by-step guide to cleaning an air fryer. For quick shortcuts and maintenance tips, use the six hacks below.

1. Clean Your Air Fryer After Every Use

Cleaning your air fryer after each use might sound like a chore, but it is much easier than dealing with built-up grease and stubborn stains later.

Unplug and cool down – Always switch off and unplug your air fryer before cleaning. Wait for it to cool completely before handling any parts.

Remove the basket and tray – Take out any removable parts and wash them with warm water and washing-up liquid. If your air fryer has dishwasher-safe parts, check your product manual before placing them in the dishwasher.

Wipe down the interior – Use a damp cloth or sponge with a small amount of washing-up liquid to wipe away grease from the inside. Avoid harsh abrasives that could damage the non-stick coating.

Dry everything thoroughly – Let all parts air dry or use a clean towel before reassembling your air fryer.

By making this a habit, you will avoid deep cleaning as often and keep your air fryer in top condition.

2. Use Bicarbonate of Soda for Stubborn Stains

If you notice tough, baked-on grease or food residue that will not budge with regular washing, bicarbonate of soda, also known as baking soda, can help lift residue gently.

How to Use Bicarbonate of Soda for Deep Cleaning

Make a paste – Mix 2 tablespoons of bicarbonate of soda with a little water to create a thick paste.

Apply to stains – Spread the paste over greasy or burnt-on areas inside the removable basket or tray. Avoid applying paste directly to electrical parts or the heating element.

Let it sit – Allow the paste to work for 10–15 minutes.

Scrub gently – Use a soft brush, sponge or toothbrush to loosen the grime.

Wipe clean – Rinse removable parts with warm water or wipe with a damp cloth, then dry thoroughly.

Bicarbonate of soda is a gentle cleaning option that can help cut through grease without damaging your air fryer’s non-stick surfaces.

3. Line the Basket for Easier Cleaning

Want to reduce mess before it even starts? Perforated parchment paper or reusable silicone liners can help catch grease and crumbs.

Perforated parchment paper – This allows air to circulate while helping to keep the basket cleaner. Make sure parchment is weighed down with food before cooking so it cannot lift towards the heating element.

Silicone liners – Reusable silicone liners can make cleaning easier and may be dishwasher-safe, depending on the liner.

Do not block airflow – Air circulation is what helps food cook and crisp evenly, so only use liners that are suitable for air fryers.

We do not recommend using foil in our Air Fryers, as this can cause the appliance to overheat.

4. Soak Removable Parts for Deep Cleaning

If food debris or grease has built up on your basket and tray, scrubbing alone might not be enough. Instead, let removable parts soak to loosen grime before wiping them clean.

Please note, for ClearCook drawers, we do not recommend submerging the entire basket.

Best Way to Soak Air Fryer Parts

Fill a sink or large bowl with warm, soapy water.

Add a small amount of white vinegar or bicarbonate of soda for extra grease-cutting power, but do not mix strong cleaning solutions or use harsh chemicals.

Place the removable basket and tray in the water and let them soak for 20–30 minutes.

Use a non-abrasive sponge to wipe away softened debris.

Rinse thoroughly and dry before reassembling.

Soaking saves time and effort, making deep cleaning less of a struggle.

5. Use a Soft Brush to Clean Around the Heating Element

One of the most overlooked areas of an air fryer is the heating element area. Over time, grease and food particles can collect nearby, which may lead to smoke, odours or reduced efficiency.

How to Clean Around the Heating Element

Make sure the air fryer is unplugged and completely cool before cleaning.

If your model allows, carefully tilt or turn the air fryer to access the area near the heating element. Place the appliance on top of a clean tea towel to protect the surface.

Use a soft brush or dry toothbrush to remove loose debris.

If needed, use a slightly damp cloth to wipe around the area, avoiding excess water near electrical parts.

Make sure everything is completely dry before using the air fryer again.

Regularly cleaning around the heating element can help prevent burnt smells and support even cooking.

6. Wipe the Exterior for a Fresh Look

While most of the mess happens inside, the outside of your air fryer can also collect fingerprints, grease splatters and dust.

How to Clean the Exterior

Use a damp microfibre cloth with a small amount of mild washing-up liquid to wipe down the outer surface.

Pay special attention to the buttons and display panel, which can get greasy from frequent use.

Dry with a clean towel to help prevent streaks or watermarks.

This quick wipe-down keeps your air fryer looking sleek and fresh.

Bonus Tip: Do a Monthly Deep Clean

To keep your air fryer in peak condition, do a deeper clean once a month, or more often if you use it daily.

Disassemble all removable parts and wash them thoroughly.

Wipe the interior with a soft sponge or cloth and mild washing-up liquid.

Clean around the heating element using a soft brush, as explained in hack 5.

Wipe down the exterior to keep it looking fresh.

Regular deep cleaning helps prevent build-up, keeps your air fryer smelling fresh and ensures it continues working efficiently.

For a more detailed process, use our full air fryer cleaning guide.

Final Thoughts: Keep Your Air Fryer Clean & Fresh

A clean air fryer not only looks better, but also performs better and helps food taste its best. By following these six simple air fryer cleaning hacks, you can spend less time scrubbing and more time enjoying crispy, delicious meals.

With minimal effort, your Instant Pot Air Fryer will stay fresh, clean and ready for your next recipe.

Looking for more air fryer tips and recipes? Explore our cooking timetable, browse our air fryer recipes, or stay tuned to our blog for the latest cooking inspiration.