Quick answer
After cooking, fill the still-warm basket with soapy water and leave it for 15 minutes, then wipe with a soft sponge. Never use abrasives or metal scourers. For burnt-on residue, apply a paste of baking soda and water for 30 minutes. Once the unit has cooled, wipe the heating element with a damp cloth.
How do you clean an air fryer step by step?
The “Care & Cleaning” guide from the AirFryer Master app. Always switch off and unplug the air fryer before cleaning the main unit, and never put the main unit in water.
- 1
Immediately after cooking
While the basket is still warm, fill it with soapy water and leave for 15 minutes. Most residue will lift off easily.
- 2
Soft sponges only
Don't use abrasives or metal scourers, as they damage the non-stick coating.
- 3
Bread hack
After cooking very fatty foods, place a slice of bread on the bottom—it absorbs excess fat and reduces smoke.
- 4
Check the heating element
Periodically (when the unit has cooled), turn it over and wipe the element with a damp cloth to remove food residue.
- 5
Dishwasher
Ensure your basket and rack are dishwasher-safe. This is the easiest way to clean them.
- 6
Burnt-on residue
Make a paste of bicarbonate of soda and water, apply to the residue, leave for 30 minutes, then gently wipe away with a soft sponge.
Taken from the guides in the free AirFryer Master app.
What should I do after every use?
- Switch off and unplug the air fryer, then pull out the basket.
- Pour away the fat from the drawer.
- Fill the still-warm basket with warm soapy water and leave it for 15 minutes.
- Wipe clean with a soft sponge, rinse and dry completely before putting it back.
How do I remove burnt-on grease?
Make a paste of baking soda (bicarbonate of soda) and water, spread it over the residue and leave it for 30 minutes. Then wipe it away gently with a soft sponge and rinse. Repeat rather than scrubbing harder — scratches in the coating make food stick more next time.
How do I clean the heating element?
Grease splatters on the element cause smoke and smells. Periodically, when the unit is unplugged and completely cool, turn it over and wipe the element with a damp cloth to remove food residue. Let it dry fully before using the air fryer again.
How do I prevent smoke and smells?
- When cooking very fatty food, place a slice of bread on the bottom of the drawer — it absorbs excess fat and reduces smoke.
- Use only a thin coat of oil; excess oil drips, smokes and creates odors.
- Empty and wash the drawer after fatty foods instead of letting grease build up.
How do I protect the non-stick coating?
- Soft sponges only — no abrasives or metal scourers.
- Turn food with silicone-tipped tongs, not metal utensils.
- Use a refillable oil mister instead of aerosol sprays with propellants.
See the accessories guide for tools that keep the basket in good shape.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I clean my air fryer?
Wash the basket and drawer after every use, especially after fatty foods. Check and wipe the heating element periodically, whenever you notice residue or smoke.
Can I put the air fryer basket in the dishwasher?
Only if your manual says the basket and rack are dishwasher-safe. If they are, it is the easiest way to clean them.
How do I get rid of sticky grease on the basket?
Soak it in warm soapy water for 15 minutes while it is still warm. For burnt-on residue, use a baking soda paste for 30 minutes, then wipe gently.
Why does my air fryer smell when cooking?
Usually from old grease in the drawer or residue on the heating element. Clean both, and use less oil — excess oil drips and burns.
