How to Degrease an Air Fryer to Remove Stubborn Stickiness and Old Odors Fast

An efficient clean that keeps dinner plans on track.

A person holds a basket of cooked potato pieces next to an air fryer on a wooden kitchen counter
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Nazar Rybak / Getty Images
  • Degreasing your air fryer prevents the risk of electrical damage, bad odors, and bacteria buildup that can affect food flavor.
  • Use gentle cleaning solutions like dish soap, baking soda, and vinegar to remove grease without damaging nonstick surfaces.
  • Cleaning after every use and limiting oil use help prevent grease buildup and keep your air fryer working safely.

An air fryer is so quick and easy to use that you might forget to clean it when you’re done—but thoughtful maintenance is key for the appliance's functionality and longevity. Grease and residue can eventually come into contact with the air fryer's heating elements and potentially ignite. It's also a breeding ground for odors, mold, and bacteria that could be transferred to your food. "Imagine heating up french fries that taste like last night’s salmon,” says cleaning expert Derek Christian.

Degreasing is a critical part of cleaning your air fryer, though it takes particular care, especially when it comes to the nonstick surfaces and heating elements. Below, we consulted cleaning and appliance experts to find out how to best degrease an air fryer without causing any damage to its components.

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“It’s very important to degrease your air fryer because it can very quickly build up residue from food, oils, and fats,” explains cook and recipe developer Emmy Clinton. “This can affect cooking, lead to bad smells that get into food, and cause smoke.”