Air Fryer Cleaner Guide: The Safest Way to Degrease, Spray & Sparkle

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Your air fryer works hard — and it deserves a proper clean. Grease builds up quickly in baskets, trays, and even the heating element, especially if you cook fatty foods like sausages, wings, or bacon. This guide walks you through the safest and most effective ways to clean your air fryer, what kind of air fryer cleaning spray to use, and the best degreasers for tough, baked-on messes.

Why Cleaning Your Air Fryer Matters

Air fryers are small but powerful — and that means gunk builds up faster than you might think. Leftover crumbs, grease splatters, and old oil not only affect taste, but also impact performance. A dirty heating element can even smoke or overheat. Cleaning doesn’t have to be a chore. With the right air fryer cleaner and a simple routine, your machine will stay fresh, safe, and ready for action.

How to Clean an Air Fryer

Here’s a foolproof cleaning routine:

  1. Unplug your air fryer and let it cool completely.
  2. Remove the basket and tray. Soak them in warm soapy water for 10–15 minutes.
  3. Use a soft brush or sponge, no metal scouring pads!
  4. For baked-on grease, apply a non-toxic degreasing spray (see below).
  5. Wipe the inside of the basket area and drawer with a damp cloth.
  6. Carefully wipe the heating element with a soft cloth dipped in warm water (or use a toothbrush).
  7. Let everything dry fully before reassembling.

Tip: Never submerge the main unit or use harsh oven cleaners. Your air fryer needs a gentler touch.

How to Clean an Air Fryer Heating Element (Safely & Effectively)

Cleaning the heating element of your air fryer might feel a bit intimidating — but it’s actually quick and straightforward. Just like the basket, the element can build up with grease, especially if you cook bacon, burgers, or anything with oil splatter.

Here’s exactly how to clean your air fryer heating element, including Tower models:

🧼 Step-by-Step:

  1. Unplug the air fryer and let it cool completely.
  2. Turn the unit upside down (gently!) so you can see the element clearly.
  3. Use a soft cloth or sponge dampened with warm, soapy water.
  4. For stuck-on grease, a toothbrush dipped in baking soda paste (2 parts bicarb, 1 part water) works wonders.
  5. Wipe with a clean damp cloth and dry thoroughly.
✅ Tip for Tower air fryers: The element design is the same. Follow the steps above and never spray cleaner directly on the coil — always wipe with a cloth.

Avoid using harsh chemicals or oven sprays on the element — it can damage the coating or create fumes. Always clean gently, and regularly, to avoid grease build-up that could smoke or affect taste.

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Best Air Fryer Cleaning Sprays (Safe & Non-Toxic)

If you’re looking for a proper air fryer cleaning spray, avoid anything overly strong or scented. Look for:

  • Plant-based degreasers (e.g. Method, Ecover)
  • Fragrance-free formulas (so it doesn’t affect taste)
  • Non-aerosol options that won’t damage the coating

Top Picks:

  • Koala Eco Natural Kitchen Cleaner: great for grease and smells lovely
  • Dirtbusters All Purpose Kitchen Degreaser – food-safe and made in the UK
  • Bastion Eco Degreaser Spray – fragrance-free and powerful

Spray onto a cloth, not directly on the element and wipe gently.

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Best Degreaser for Air Fryer Baskets & Drawers

For heavy-duty jobs (like air fryer chips or pork belly residue), you’ll want a proper degreaser. Here’s what to use:

  • Baking soda paste: mix 2 tbsp baking soda with warm water and apply to stains
  • White vinegar spray: cuts through greasy layers without chemicals
  • Specialist degreasers: look for food-safe, non-corrosive options like HG Grease Away or Oven Mate Daily Degreaser

Avoid: bleach, oven cleaners, or anything that could damage non-stick coating.

Air Fryer Cleaning FAQs

Can I use dish soap to clean my air fryer?

Yes, warm soapy water works great for most day-to-day cleaning. Use a soft sponge to protect the non-stick surface.

How often should I clean my air fryer?

Ideally after every use — or at least wipe it down. Deep clean once a week if you’re a frequent fryer.

Can I put air fryer parts in the dishwasher?

Many baskets and trays are dishwasher-safe, but always check your manual first. Hand washing usually preserves the non-stick longer.

Is there a spray specifically for air fryers?

There’s no need for a special branded one. Just choose a food-safe, non-toxic kitchen degreaser or all-purpose cleaner with no strong scent.

Final Thoughts

Keeping your air fryer clean is easier than it looks. A quick wipe after each use and a gentle weekly degrease will extend its life and make your meals taste fresher. With the right air fryer cleaning spray or natural degreaser, you don’t need elbow grease — just a cloth, a splash of know-how, and five extra minutes in your kitchen routine.
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