How to Clean an Air Fryer Heating Element Safely (No Smoke or Burnt Smells)

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 Have you ever turned on your air fryer to reheat last night’s leftovers, only to have your kitchen fill up with unwanted smoke or a harsh burnt smell?

Most people are diligent about scrubbing the removable basket after every meal. But if your air fryer is clean on the bottom and still smoking, grease or food residue around the upper heating element may be one possible cause.

Every time you air-fry bacon, wings, or juicy meats, tiny droplets of oil aerosolize and splash upward. Over time, these grease droplets stick to the heating coil and protective mesh, baking into a dark, stubborn crust with every use.

Cleaning this component might seem intimidating, but you don't need harsh chemical sprays or complex tools. Here is a safe, step-by-step guide to removing grease buildup from your air fryer heating element without damaging the appliance.


What You Need (And What to Strictly Avoid)

Before you start, gather these simple household items:

  • Recommended Tools: Soft microfiber cloths, an old soft-bristled toothbrush, cotton swabs, warm water, mild dish soap, and a dry towel.

  • What to Avoid: Steel wool, metal scrapers, abrasive scouring pads, oven cleaner sprays, or bleach.


Why avoid oven cleaners? Strong chemical cleaners may not be suitable for the heating element or other internal components and can leave residues if they are not designed for use inside an air fryer. For routine cleaning, mild dish soap and a barely damp cloth are a simpler option. Always follow the manufacturer's cleaning instructions.


CRITICAL SAFETY NOTE — Always unplug the air fryer and allow it to cool down completely. Even if the outer plastic housing feels cool to the touch, the internal heating element retains extreme heat for a long time. Always verify it is entirely cold before touching the interior.


Air fryer with heating element exposed before cleaning



Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide

Step 1: Start Dry (Remove Loose Crumb Buildup)

Avoid pouring or spraying water directly inside the appliance. Wetting loose crumbs can make them stick to the surrounding surfaces and may make cleanup more difficult.

  • Unplug the unit, remove the basket, and carefully flip or tilt the air fryer on a stable surface so you can see the top interior clearly.

  • Use a dry, soft-bristled toothbrush to gently sweep away loose food particles and carbonized crumbs from around the heating coil.


Step 2: Soften Grease with a Barely Damp Cloth

  • Mix a few drops of mild dish soap into a bowl of warm water.

  • Submerge a microfiber cloth and wring it out until it is barely damp. Avoid allowing water to drip into the electrical components or other openings inside the appliance.

  • Gently wipe the accessible metal walls and the area surrounding the element.

  • Pro Tip: For hardened grease spots, hold the damp, warm cloth against the residue for 1–2 minutes. This may help soften the buildup and make it easier to wipe away without excessive scrubbing.


Step 3: Detail the Heating Coil and Protective Mesh

  • For tight spots behind the heating coil or inside the protective mesh guard, dip your soft toothbrush in soapy water, shake off all excess liquid, and brush gently.

  • Use cotton swabs for tight corners or around mounting screws.

  • Once the grease is removed, wipe the accessible surfaces with a clean, lightly dampened cloth to remove any remaining soap residue.

Cleaning supplies for an air fryer heating element


Step 4: Dry Completely and Run a Quick Test

  • Wipe down all surfaces with a dry towel.

  • Leave the basket out and allow the appliance to dry completely according to the manufacturer's instructions before using it again. Make sure there is no visible moisture around the cleaned areas.

  • Once the appliance is completely dry, follow the manufacturer's instructions before using it again. If the manual permits an empty test run, use the recommended temperature and time rather than heating the appliance unnecessarily.


Frequently Asked Questions


Can I use a baking soda paste on the heating element?

While baking soda can be useful for cleaning removable baskets, it is better to avoid getting loose powder or paste into the heating element and surrounding openings. Residue can be difficult to remove from small crevices. A barely damp microfiber cloth with a small amount of mild dish soap is a simpler option for accessible surfaces.


How often should I clean the heating element?

Check the heating area regularly, especially if you frequently cook fatty foods such as bacon, pork belly, or steaks. If you notice visible grease or food residue, clean the accessible areas after the appliance has cooled completely. Regular light cleaning can help prevent heavy buildup from accumulating over time.

Clean air fryer heating element after removing grease


Final Thoughts

Regularly cleaning the accessible areas around your air fryer's heating element can help keep the appliance cleaner and reduce grease buildup over time. Just remember the golden rules: keep moisture to a minimum, never use metal tools, and always ensure the unit is unplugged.