The Complete Guide to Seasoning and Maintaining Your Air Fryer

# The Complete Guide to Seasoning and Maintaining Your Air Fryer

You've just unboxed your shiny new air fryer — or perhaps you've had one for a while and noticed it's not performing quite as well as it used to. Either way, knowing how to properly season and maintain your air fryer is one of the most important things you can do to protect your investment and keep your food tasting great.

In this guide, we'll walk you through everything: from the very first use, to routine cleaning, to long-term maintenance habits that will keep your appliance running smoothly for years to come. Whether you've got a compact 3-litre model or a large dual-basket unit, these tips apply across the board.

If you're still shopping around, check out our buying guide and compare models to find the right air fryer for your kitchen.

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Why Seasoning and Maintenance Matter

Many people treat their air fryer like a set-and-forget appliance — and while air fryers are certainly low-maintenance compared to, say, a cast iron pan or a deep fryer, they do require some basic care to perform at their best.

Neglecting your air fryer can lead to:

• Food sticking to the basket or tray
• Unpleasant odours during cooking
• Reduced non-stick performance over time
• Grease build-up that can cause smoke or even fire hazards
• Shortened appliance lifespan

The good news? Proper care is simple and takes only a few minutes. Let's start from the very beginning.

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Step 1: First-Use Seasoning

Before you cook your first meal, it's worth taking a few minutes to season your air fryer. This process removes any manufacturing residues, burns off factory coatings, and prepares the non-stick surface for cooking.

How to Season a New Air Fryer

1. Wash the removable parts — Remove the basket, tray, and any accessories. Wash them with warm soapy water, rinse thoroughly, and dry completely.
2. Wipe the interior — Use a damp cloth to wipe down the inside of the air fryer unit. Don't submerge the main unit in water.
3. Apply a thin layer of oil — Using a paper towel or pastry brush, apply a very light coat of high-smoke-point oil (such as canola, vegetable, or avocado oil) to the basket and tray. Avoid olive oil for this step, as it has a lower smoke point.
4. Run the air fryer empty — Set the temperature to 400°F (204°C) and run it for 10–15 minutes with nothing inside. You may notice a slight smell — this is normal and will dissipate.
5. Let it cool and wipe again — Once cooled, give the basket a quick wipe with a clean cloth.

That's it! Your air fryer is now seasoned and ready to use. For more tips on getting started, visit our blog for beginner-friendly guides.

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Step 2: Routine Cleaning After Every Use

The single most important maintenance habit is cleaning your air fryer after every use. Grease and food particles left behind will bake on over time, becoming increasingly difficult to remove and potentially causing smoke during future cooking sessions.

What to Clean After Each Use

• The basket — This is where most of the grease and food residue accumulates. Wash it with warm soapy water and a soft sponge or cloth. Most baskets are dishwasher-safe, but hand washing is gentler on the non-stick coating.
• The tray or crisper plate — Same as the basket. Soak if needed to loosen stubborn residue.
• The interior cavity — Use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down the inside walls and bottom. Be careful around the heating element.
• The exterior — A quick wipe with a damp cloth keeps the outside looking clean.

What NOT to Do

• Don't use abrasive scrubbers — Steel wool or harsh scouring pads will scratch and damage the non-stick coating.
• Don't submerge the main unit — Only the removable parts should be washed. The electrical components must stay dry.
• Don't use aerosol cooking sprays — These can leave a sticky residue that's hard to remove and can degrade the non-stick surface over time. Use a brush or paper towel to apply oil instead.

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Step 3: Deep Cleaning Your Air Fryer

Even with regular cleaning, grease can build up in hard-to-reach areas. A deep clean every 2–4 weeks (or more often if you cook frequently) will keep your air fryer in top condition.

Deep Cleaning the Basket and Tray

For stubborn, baked-on grease:

1. Fill the basket with warm water and a few drops of dish soap.
2. Let it soak for 20–30 minutes.
3. Use a soft brush (an old toothbrush works well) to scrub away residue.
4. Rinse thoroughly and dry completely before reassembling.

Alternatively, a paste made from bicarbonate of soda and water is excellent for cutting through grease without scratching the surface.

Cleaning the Heating Element

The heating element sits at the top of the air fryer cavity and can accumulate grease splatter over time. To clean it:

1. Unplug the air fryer and allow it to cool completely.
2. Turn the unit upside down to access the heating element.
3. Use a soft brush or damp cloth to gently wipe away any residue.
4. For stubborn build-up, a small amount of bicarbonate of soda paste applied with a toothbrush works well.
5. Wipe clean with a damp cloth and allow to dry fully before using.

Never spray water directly onto the heating element. This can cause damage and is a safety hazard.

Cleaning the Exterior

The outside of your air fryer can be wiped down with a damp cloth and a small amount of mild detergent. Avoid getting moisture near the control panel or vents.

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Step 4: Maintaining the Non-Stick Coating

The non-stick coating on your air fryer basket is what makes cooking and cleaning so easy — but it requires some care to stay effective.

Tips to Preserve the Non-Stick Surface

• Use silicone, wooden, or plastic utensils — Metal utensils will scratch and damage the coating. Invest in a set of silicone tongs and spatulas for air fryer use.
• Avoid harsh chemicals — Stick to mild dish soap and water. Avoid bleach or oven cleaners.
• Don't stack items in the basket — Overcrowding can cause food to press against the sides and scratch the coating.
• Use air fryer liners — Perforated parchment paper liners or silicone liners can protect the basket from direct contact with food and grease. Just make sure they don't block airflow.
• Re-season periodically — If you notice food starting to stick, a light re-seasoning (as described in Step 1) can help restore the surface.

For a full rundown on safe accessories, check out our accessories guide.

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Step 5: Preventing and Dealing with Odours

Air fryers can develop unpleasant smells over time, particularly if grease builds up or if you cook strongly flavoured foods like fish or garlic.

How to Prevent Odours

• Clean after every use (as above)
• Run the air fryer empty at 350°F (177°C) for 5 minutes after cooking strongly scented foods
• Place a small piece of bread or a lemon slice in the basket and run at 350°F (177°C) for a few minutes to neutralise odours

Dealing with Persistent Smells

If your air fryer has developed a persistent odour:

1. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a small oven-safe bowl.
2. Place it in the basket and run the air fryer at 350°F (177°C) for 10 minutes.
3. Allow to cool, then wipe down the interior.

Bicarbonate of soda is also effective — sprinkle a small amount in the basket, leave overnight, then wipe clean.

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Step 6: Long-Term Maintenance Tips

Beyond cleaning, there are a few habits that will significantly extend the life of your air fryer.

Proper Storage

• Store your air fryer in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• Don't store it with the basket pushed all the way in — leaving it slightly ajar allows air circulation and prevents moisture build-up.
• If you're not using it for an extended period, store the basket separately to prevent the non-stick surfaces from pressing together.

Checking for Wear and Damage

Periodically inspect your air fryer for:

• Scratches or chips in the non-stick coating — If the coating is significantly damaged, it may be time to replace the basket. Many manufacturers sell replacement baskets separately.
• Damage to the power cord — Never use an air fryer with a frayed or damaged cord.
• Unusual noises or smells during operation — These can indicate a mechanical issue. Stop using the appliance and contact the manufacturer.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

• Don't overfill the basket — This restricts airflow and leads to uneven cooking. It also puts extra strain on the motor.
• Don't block the vents — Air fryers need adequate ventilation. Leave at least 10–15 cm of space around the unit during operation.
• Don't use the air fryer on unstable surfaces — Always place it on a flat, heat-resistant surface.
• Don't leave it unattended for long periods — While air fryers are generally safe, it's good practice to stay nearby when cooking.

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When to Replace Your Air Fryer

With proper care, a quality air fryer should last 3–5 years or more. Signs that it may be time for a replacement include:

• Significantly degraded non-stick coating that can't be restored
• Inconsistent heating or temperature control issues
• Unusual smells that persist despite thorough cleaning
• Physical damage to the unit or cord

If you're in the market for a new model, our air fryer reviews cover the latest options across all price points, and our buying guide will help you find the perfect fit for your household.

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Quick Reference: Air Fryer Maintenance Schedule

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Final Thoughts

Seasoning and maintaining your air fryer doesn't have to be a chore. With a few simple habits — cleaning after each use, deep cleaning regularly, and treating the non-stick surface with care — you'll keep your appliance performing like new for years to come.

The investment in a quality air fryer is well worth it when you take care of it properly. Whether you're cooking crispy chips, roasting vegetables, or baking a cake, a well-maintained air fryer will deliver consistent, delicious results every time.

For more tips, recipes, and product recommendations, explore our recipes section and blog. And if you're thinking about upgrading, our compare models tool makes it easy to find your perfect match.