The main reason why air fryers are hotter is that they are healthier, which is why no family can cook without them. However, there are more categories of air fryers on the market, and many people are at a loss as to what kind of air fryer to choose, so in this review, we find you the air fryer that best meets your cooking needs.
Why Regular Cleaning of Your Air Fryer Basket Matters
Air fryer baskets are the heart of your appliance, where all the magic of crispy, delicious meals happens. But without proper cleaning, grease, food particles, and odors can build up, affecting performance and flavor. Regular maintenance not only keeps your air fryer in top shape but also extends its lifespan. Neglecting the basket can lead to uneven cooking, smoke, or even damage to the nonstick coating. Let’s dive into the six best ways to keep your air fryer basket sparkling clean in 2025, ensuring your meals stay tasty and your appliance stays efficient.
6 Best Ways to Clean Your Air Fryer Basket
Soak and Scrub with Dish Soap and Warm Water
The simplest and most effective method for cleaning an air fryer basket is soaking it in warm, soapy water. This approach works wonders for loosening grease and stuck-on food without damaging the nonstick coating. Fill your sink with hot water, add a few drops of a grease-fighting dish soap like Dawn Ultra, and let the basket soak for 15-30 minutes. Use a soft sponge or cloth to gently scrub away residue, focusing on corners and crevices where crumbs hide. Rinse thoroughly and let it air dry or wipe it down with a clean towel.
Pro Tip: If you’re dealing with stubborn bits, use a soft-bristled toothbrush to get into the mesh of the basket without scratching it. Avoid abrasive scrubbers like steel wool, which can ruin the nonstick surface. This method is ideal for daily cleaning or after cooking lighter meals like vegetables or fries.
Baking Soda and Vinegar Paste for Tough Grease
For baked-on grease that won’t budge, a baking soda and vinegar paste is your go-to solution. Mix equal parts baking soda and white vinegar (about 3 tablespoons each) to create a fizzy paste. Apply it to greasy spots with a soft sponge or cloth, letting it sit for 10-15 minutes to break down the grime. Scrub gently, rinse with warm water, and dry completely. This natural combo is powerful yet safe for nonstick coatings, making it perfect for deep cleaning every few weeks.
Why It Works: The chemical reaction between baking soda and vinegar lifts grease and softens stuck-on food, reducing the need for harsh scrubbing. For an extra boost, check out this guide from Food & Wine on expert-recommended cleaning techniques.
Dishwasher Cleaning for Convenience
If your air fryer’s manual confirms that the basket is dishwasher-safe, this method can save you time. Scrape off large food particles first, then place the basket upside down on the top rack of your dishwasher to protect the nonstick coating from harsh water jets. Run a normal cycle with a quality detergent. While convenient, hand washing is often better for preserving the basket’s longevity, as dishwashers can wear down nonstick surfaces over time.
Caution: Always double-check your air fryer’s manual, as not all baskets are dishwasher-safe. Even if they are, limit dishwasher use to once or twice a month to maintain the coating’s integrity. This method is great for busy households or after cooking messier dishes like saucy wings.
Lemon and Vinegar Steam for Odor Removal
Cooking pungent foods like fish or garlic in your air fryer can leave lingering odors. A lemon and vinegar steam clean tackles both grease and smells. Place a heat-safe ramekin in the basket with a mixture of 1 cup water, 2 tablespoons white vinegar, and half a lemon (squeezed and dropped in). Run the air fryer at 400°F for 5 minutes, then let it sit for 30 minutes to allow the steam to loosen grease and neutralize odors. Wipe down with a damp cloth and rinse the basket.
Bonus: The fresh lemon scent is a delightful perk, as noted in a cleaning test by The Kitchn. This method is ideal for monthly maintenance or after cooking strong-smelling foods.
Use Air Fryer Liners to Minimize Mess
Prevention is better than cure, and air fryer liners are a game-changer for keeping your basket clean. Parchment paper or silicone liners catch drippings and crumbs, reducing the need for heavy scrubbing. Place a pre-cut liner in the basket before cooking, ensuring it’s weighted down with food to avoid blocking airflow. After cooking, simply remove the liner and give the basket a quick wipe or rinse.
Important: Cut liners to fit your basket and avoid covering air vents or touching the heating element. Silicone liners are reusable and withstand higher temperatures, while parchment liners are disposable and great for quick cleanups. This method is perfect for everyday use, especially with greasy foods like bacon.
Soft Brush for Heating Element and Basket Mesh
The heating element and basket mesh can trap grease and crumbs, reducing efficiency. Use a soft-bristled brush, like an old toothbrush, to gently clean these areas. For the basket, focus on the holes where food can get lodged. For the heating element, ensure the air fryer is unplugged and cooled, then lightly brush away debris. Follow up with a damp cloth to remove any remaining residue.
Safety Note: Never use abrasive tools or harsh chemicals on the heating element, as they can damage it. Regular brushing after every few uses keeps your air fryer running smoothly and prevents smoke from grease buildup.
Best Product Recommendations for Air Fryer Basket Cleaning
To make cleaning your air fryer basket even easier, here are two top-rated products available on Amazon that complement the methods above. These tools and accessories are designed to simplify maintenance and keep your air fryer in pristine condition.
Dawn Ultra Dishwashing Liquid
Dawn Ultra is a grease-fighting powerhouse, perfect for soaking and scrubbing air fryer baskets. Its concentrated formula cuts through oil and stuck-on food, making it a staple for daily cleaning. Pair it with a soft sponge for best results.
Real Customer Review: “This is the only dish soap I use. It cuts through grease like nothing else, and a little goes a long way. Perfect for my air fryer basket!” – Amazon Customer, Verified Purchase
Bykitchen Air Fryer Liners (200-Pack)
These disposable parchment liners fit most air fryer baskets and make cleanup a breeze. They catch grease and crumbs, reducing the need for deep cleaning. Safe up to 450°F, they’re ideal for busy cooks who want to minimize mess.
Real Customer Review: “These liners are a lifesaver! My air fryer basket stays so clean, and I just toss the liner after cooking. No more scrubbing!” – Amazon Customer, Verified Purchase
Buy Bykitchen Air Fryer Liners on Amazon
How did we test air fryers?
In order to find the best air fryer, our team of 8 people conducted real tests on different price points, sizes, brands, performance, intelligence and practicality. We bought air fryers from all major platforms, including the official ones, and tested them in our lab for 3 weeks, while our team also tested and evaluated them in our own homes.
We cooked different ingredients to evaluate the crispiness, cooking uniformity and overall texture. We also evaluated how much food each air fryer can handle to see if it is suitable for a large family. In addition to our own evaluation of these air fryers, we also referred to third-party authoritative platforms, the data of their tests, and made comparisons against the data of our tests, and finally selected the above high-quality air fryers.
You can also use the selection tool we built to help you recommend the air fryer that’s right for you:
Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Cleaning Tools and Accessories
When selecting tools and accessories for cleaning your air fryer basket, prioritize safety, effectiveness, and compatibility with your appliance. Here’s what to consider:
- Non-Abrasive Sponges and Brushes: Opt for soft sponges or microfiber cloths to protect the nonstick coating. A soft-bristled toothbrush is great for detailed cleaning of mesh areas.
- Grease-Fighting Dish Soap: Choose a trusted brand like Dawn or Palmolive for tackling oil and residue. Concentrated formulas are more economical and effective.
- Air Fryer Liners: Decide between disposable parchment liners for convenience or reusable silicone liners for sustainability. Ensure they’re the right size for your basket and heat-resistant up to your air fryer’s maximum temperature.
- Natural Cleaners: Baking soda, vinegar, and lemons are eco-friendly and safe for deep cleaning. Avoid harsh chemicals like degreasers, which can damage the basket or leave harmful residues.
- Manual Compatibility: Always check your air fryer’s manual for cleaning instructions, especially regarding dishwasher safety and recommended products.
For additional tips on maintaining small kitchen appliances, visit Consumer Reports for expert advice.
Tips to Keep Your Air Fryer Basket Clean Longer
- Clean After Every Use: Even a quick wipe with a damp cloth prevents grease buildup. Waiting too long makes cleaning harder.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Overfilling the basket causes food to touch the heating element, leading to more splatter and mess.
- Use Liners Strategically: Liners reduce mess but must be used correctly to avoid blocking airflow or burning on the heating element.
- Deep Clean Monthly: Schedule a thorough cleaning every few weeks to tackle grease and odors before they become problematic.
- Store Properly: Keep your air fryer in a dry, dust-free space to avoid additional cleaning challenges.
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Summarize:
Choosing the right air fryer for your family is important, you need to know your kitchen space, budget, family size, and whether the smart features work well. The air fryers we have reviewed above have been evaluated by our team after 3 weeks of real-life use for different family sizes, features, and types, and you can be assured of their performance and quality. If you have any questions, you can contact us in the comment section.
