An air fryer is a kitchen essential for quick, crispy, and oil-free cooking, but if you’re not cleaning it properly and regularly, you’re risking burnt residue, smoke, and even bad odours in your food. Over time, grease and food particles build up, affecting the performance and taste of your meals. A dirty air fryer can also become a breeding ground for bacteria, making regular cleaning an absolute must.
If you’ve ever struggled with stuck-on grease, clogged heating elements, or a lingering burnt smell, you’re not alone. The good news? Cleaning an air fryer doesn’t have to be difficult. In this guide, we’ll cover step-by-step cleaning instructions, the best degreasers to use, and hacks for deep-cleaning stubborn grime.
The Best Way to Clean an Air Fryer (Step-by-Step Guide)
Step 1: Gather Your Cleaning Supplies
Before you start, make sure you have everything you need:
- Warm, soapy water for general cleaning
- A soft sponge or microfiber cloth to prevent scratching the surface
- Baking soda for natural stain removal
- A degreaser like OzKleen Kitchen Power for cutting through tough grease
- A soft-bristle brush or toothbrush to clean small crevices
- A dry towel for wiping everything down
Step 2: Unplug & Disassemble the Air Fryer
Before cleaning, always unplug the air fryer and wait for it to cool completely to avoid burns. Remove the basket, tray, and any removable accessories. Most air fryer parts are dishwasher safe, but always check the manufacturer’s manual before tossing them in.
Step 3: Cleaning the Air Fryer Basket & Tray
The air fryer basket and tray collect the most grease and food residue, so they need special attention. Start by soaking them in warm, soapy water for 10–15 minutes to loosen debris. If stubborn grease remains, spray with OzKleen Kitchen Power Degreaser, let it sit for a minute, then scrub gently with a sponge or brush. This powerful degreaser breaks down oil and grime quickly, making cleaning much easier.
If your air fryer basket is dishwasher safe, you can run it through a gentle cycle. However, if it has a non-stick coating, avoid abrasive scrubbing to prevent damage.
Step 4: How to Clean the Air Fryer Heating Element
The heating element is often overlooked, but it’s one of the most important parts to keep clean. If grease splatters onto the element, it can cause smoking, uneven heating, or even fire hazards. To clean it, flip the air fryer upside down and use a soft cloth or brush to gently wipe away any food particles. For tough grease spots, apply a small amount of degreaser to a damp cloth and wipe carefully. Never spray degreaser directly onto the heating element—always use a cloth or sponge.
Step 5: Wiping Down the Interior & Exterior
Once the main components are clean, wipe down the interior walls of the air fryer with a damp cloth. If there’s any grease buildup, a light mist of OzKleen Kitchen Power will help break it down without leaving harsh chemical residues. Finally, clean the exterior of the air fryer, including buttons and vents, to remove any fingerprints or dust.
Tackling Grease Build-Up: Why a Degreaser Works Best
Grease buildup is one of the biggest challenges when it comes to air fryer maintenance. Over time, oil splatters, food residue, and burnt grease stick to the basket, heating element, and interior walls. If not cleaned properly, this buildup can lead to smoke, unpleasant odours, and reduced efficiency.
While soap and water can remove light grease, it often isn’t enough for thick, baked-on grime. Many people try baking soda and vinegar, but these methods require scrubbing and repeated applications, which can damage non-stick coatings over time. Instead, using a powerful, food-safe degreaser is the fastest and safest way to remove stubborn grease.
That’s where a degreaser comes in. Designed to cut through grease and grime instantly, it works without the need for excessive scrubbing. Just spray degreaser on greasy surfaces, let it sit for a minute, then wipe away the grease effortlessly. Make sure your degreaser is also septic-safe, so it won’t harm your BioCycle systems.
Common Air Fryer Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid
Even with the best cleaning techniques, some mistakes can damage your air fryer or make cleaning harder. Here are some common cleaning mistakes and how to avoid them:
1. Using Too Much Water Inside the Air Fryer
Many people wonder, “Can you put water in an air fryer?” The answer is no—excess water can seep into electrical components, potentially causing damage or short-circuiting. When cleaning, always use a damp cloth rather than pouring water directly into the unit.
2. Using Oven Cleaner or Harsh Chemicals
Some people assume that oven cleaner is a quick fix for grease buildup, but it’s actually too harsh for air fryers. Oven cleaners can damage the non-stick coating inside the basket and interior. Instead, use a gentle degreaser like OzKleen Kitchen Power Degreaser, which effectively removes grease without harsh fumes or damage.
3. Not Cleaning the Heating Element Regularly
Many users focus only on cleaning the basket and tray but forget about the heating element. Over time, grease buildup on the heating coil can cause smoke, uneven heating, and even fire hazards. To prevent this, make sure to wipe the heating element at least once a month using a soft cloth with a small amount of degreaser.
4. Putting the Air Fryer Basket in the Dishwasher Without Checking
While some air fryer baskets are dishwasher safe, not all of them are. Always check the manufacturer’s guide before placing parts in the dishwasher. If in doubt, hand wash with warm soapy water and use a degreaser for stubborn oil stains.
5. Not Drying the Air Fryer Properly After Cleaning
Even after wiping everything down, leaving moisture inside the air fryer can lead to rust or mould growth. Always dry all parts thoroughly with a clean towel before reassembling and storing the unit.
Keep Your Air Fryer Spotless with These Pro Tips
A clean air fryer isn’t just about looks—it’s essential for better-tasting food, efficient performance, and long-lasting durability. By following these step-by-step cleaning methods, you can keep your air fryer free from grease, stains, and odours with minimal effort.
For everyday maintenance, a quick wipe-down after cooking will prevent build-up over time. For stubborn grease and deep cleaning, using a kitchen degreaser like OzKleen Kitchen Power makes the process faster, safer, and more effective. Unlike harsh oven cleaners, OzKleen is non-toxic, septic-safe, and tough on grease, making it the perfect solution for air fryer care.
Whether you’re a home cook or an air fryer enthusiast, keeping your appliance clean will extend its lifespan and ensure perfectly crisp meals every time. Try OzKleen Kitchen Power today to make air fryer cleaning quick and effortless!
