A London supermarket recently dedicated an entire freezer aisle to food you can cook in an air fryer – proof that the gadget is here to stay. But with heavy use comes an important responsibility: cleaning. Unlike a deep fryer, an air fryer contains splatter fairly well, but stray crumbs, grease, and stuck-on gunk can quickly build up. Left unchecked, that grime not only affects flavour but also becomes a fire hazard.

So, let’s explore how to clean your air fryer properly — including using baking soda and vinegar, breaking down each air fryer part, and expert tips from our Chelsea end of tenancy cleaning team.

At a Glance – Quick Tips

  • After every use: Empty crumbs, wash baskets, and wipe exterior.
  • Baking soda: Great for scrubbing stuck-on grease.
  • Vinegar: Best for deodorising and dissolving mineral or oil residue.
  • Never immerse: The central unit should never go in water.
  • Monthly deep clean: Focus on the heating coil, fan, and vents.
  • Prevent mess: Use liners or parchment to reduce drips.

What You’ll Need

  • Soft sponge
  • Soft-bristled brush
  • Clean cotton or microfibre cloths
  • Mild dish soap
  • Baking soda
  • White vinegar or lemon juice
  • Paper towels

How to Clean the Removable Parts of the Air Fryer

The basket, tray, and grease pan are the messiest parts — and fortunately, most are dishwasher-safe. If you prefer to hand-wash:

  1. Sprinkle 1–2 tablespoons of baking soda in the bottom of the basket. Add a squirt of dish soap and pour in hot water. The fizzing action loosens grease.
  2. Re-insert the inner basket, allowing both parts to soak for 20–30 minutes.
  3. Scrub with a sponge. For stubborn stains, apply a paste of two parts baking soda and one part water.
  4. Use a soft brush to clean grease from mesh holes.
  5. Rinse under warm running water and dry with a clean cloth.

Why baking soda works: It’s a mild alkali, breaking down acids and softening grease without scratching non-stick coatings.

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How to Clean the Main Unit of the Air Fryer

The main unit contains the heating element, fan, and controls — never submerge this part. Instead:

  1. Unplug and cool completely.
  2. Dust the air vent and fan area with a fine brush.
  3. Dampen a cloth with warm, soapy water and wring it until barely moist.
  4. Wipe the exterior, drawer cavity, and control panel.
  5. For grease on the heating element, dab with vinegar solution (equal parts vinegar and water). This cuts through oil and kills odours.
  6. Dry thoroughly with a microfibre cloth before reassembling.

Cleaning Different Air Fryer Parts

Each part requires slightly different care:

  • Basket & Tray: Soak in baking soda solution, scrub gently, or run through dishwasher if approved.
  • Grease Pan: Use a vinegar rinse to dissolve oil buildup; follow with a baking soda paste for tough grime.
  • Heating Coil: Clean gently with a soft brush and a cloth. Never soak or scrape.
  • Fan & Vents: Dust with a brush or handheld vacuum. Greasy residue can be wiped with a vinegar solution.
  • Exterior Housing: Wipe with a damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid abrasive sponges to preserve the finish.

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How to Remove the Plastic Smell from a New Air Fryer

New units sometimes emit a plastic-like smell. Here’s how to neutralise it:

  • Preheat the empty fryer to 200°C (400°F) for 15–20 minutes.
  • Wipe the inside with a cloth dipped in vinegar or lemon juice, then dry.
  • Repeat the preheating cycle if needed until the smell fades.

How to Get Rid of Lingering Odours

Fish, bacon, or spicy food can leave behind stubborn smells. Try these:

  • Soak trays and baskets in soapy water for 30 minutes before scrubbing.
  • Deodorise by steaming: place a ramekin with 2 cups of water and the juice of half a lemon inside. Run at 200°C (400°F) for 20 minutes.
  • Wipe down the interior with a vinegar solution after cooking strong-smelling foods.

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How Often Should You Clean Your Air Fryer?

Clean removable parts after every use to prevent grease buildup. Wipe the exterior and interior cavity every 2–3 uses. Plan for a deeper clean — including heating coil and vents — once a month. A dirty air fryer not only smells bad but also reduces efficiency and airflow.

Tips to Keep Your Air Fryer Clean

  • Line baskets with parchment or silicone liners to catch drips.
  • Wipe crumbs immediately after use to prevent burning on the next cycle.
  • Never use harsh abrasives that can damage the non-stick coating.
  • Store in a dry, ventilated space to prevent mould or lingering odours.

Learn More About: Sticker Cleaners

FAQs

Can I use baking soda and vinegar together in my air fryer?

Yes, the fizzing reaction helps lift stubborn grease, but use only on removable parts — never inside the main unit.

How do I clean the heating element safely?

Unplug, cool down, then wipe gently with a vinegar-dampened cloth. Avoid scrubbing or soaking.

Is it safe to put air fryer baskets in the dishwasher?

Most models allow it, but check your manual first. Hand washing with baking soda is gentler and preserves the non-stick coating.

Why does my air fryer still smell after cleaning?

Lingering odours may remain in vents or trays. Steam clean with lemon water at 200°C for 20 minutes to neutralise smells.

How often should I deep clean the whole air fryer?

Do a complete clean, including fan and vents, once a month if you use it regularly.