Air frying is a relatively safe and energy-efficient way to cook, but before you start cooking up a storm with your air fryer, it's important to know a few tips about air fryer safety.
We want to make sure your air frying adventures are not only tasty, but as safe as possible. Here are some easy-to-follow precautions to consider when using air fryer ovens.
Read the Manual
It might sound obvious, but you should always read the manual and make sure you understand the manufacturer's instructions and safety guidelines before using your air fryer. All air fryers are different, so even if you've used an air fryer before, we recommend checking the manual.
This will help you understand its features, such as if it's dishwasher-safe (though we recommend you avoid dishwashers - see our guide to cleaning an air fryer), and potential hazards.
Place it on a Stable Surface
Like other appliances, you want to place your air fryer on a stable, heat-resistant surface. Avoid placing it near the edge of countertops or tables, where it could easily be knocked over.
Keep it Away from Water
Again, this might sound obvious, but you should keep your air fryer in a location far away from the sink or any other water source to prevent the risk of electric shock.
Avoid Overcrowding
Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. This is a big one! Overfilling can obstruct airflow, which leads to uneven cooking or even a potential fire hazard.
Preheat when Recommended
Some air fryer models and/or recipes may require preheating before use, such as toaster-oven style air fryers like the Breville Smart Oven Air. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for preheating to ensure proper cooking and safety.
Use Oven Mitts or Heat-Resistant Gloves
The exterior of the air fryer can get hot during operation. Always use oven mitts or heat-resistant gloves when handling the appliance or removing the basket to prevent burns.
Don't Handle Hot Food
Just as you should use oven mitts or heat-resistant gloves to handle the air fryer itself, do not reach into the basket directly to pull out hot food. Always use tongs or a plastic or rubber spatula to remove food from the basket.
Avoid Cooking Sprays with Propellants
Cooking sprays often contain propellants and other additives that can leave residues on the surface of the air fryer's non-stick coating. Over time, this buildup can degrade the coating and affect its performance. Read our recommendations for Air Frying Oils for more info!
Do Not Use Metal Utensils
Avoid using metal utensils or accessories inside the air fryer as they can damage the non-stick coating of the basket. Non-stick coatings are safe up to 500°F, providing there is no visible damage to the coating such as scratches or peeling. Air fryers do not reach 500°F, so be sure to take care of the non-stick coating to extend the life of your air fryer. See our recommended Air Fryer Tools and Accessories.
Keep the Ventilation Clear
Ensure that the air vents on the air fryer are not obstructed during operation. Blocked vents can lead to overheating and may pose a fire risk.
Pull your air fryer away from walls and out from under cabinets when using. Overhead cabinets can get damaged from the heat, so it's best to ensure your air fryer has enough space above and on all sides to vent properly.
Monitor Cooking
Keep an eye on the food while it's cooking to prevent it from burning or overcooking. You may need to shake the basket periodically for even cooking. Some air fryers come with a timer to remind you to shake the basket. We recommend an egg timer nearby, or using the timer function on your phone, if yours does not.
Use Proper Cookware
Only use cookware that is recommended for use in the air fryer. Avoid cookware that is not specifically labeled as safe for oven and/or air frying. See our recommended Air Fryer Tools and Accessories.
Keep Children Away
Keep children away from the air fryer during operation, as the exterior surfaces can become hot and cause burns.
Unplug When Not in Use
Always unplug the air fryer when it's not in use, and before cleaning or performing maintenance.
Clean it Regularly
Clean the air fryer regularly according to the manufacturer's instructions to prevent the buildup of grease and food particles, which can pose a fire hazard. See our step-by-step guide on How To Clean Your Air Fryer.
Following these safety precautions can help ensure safe and enjoyable use of your air fryer!
Everything You Need to Know About Air Frying
- See our recommended tools and accessories for air frying.
- Review our guide to Cleaning an Air Fryer.
- We tested air fryer energy efficiency vs. that of traditional ovens. Our guide is coming soon!
- Want to know more about your new favorite appliance? See our on how air frying works.
Air Fryer Recipes Just for You
Did you just buy your air fryer, or are you an avid air fryer fan? Either way, we have an assortment of air fryer recipes we've tried, tested, and loved. All of our air fryer recipes are made in our personal kitchen, and we know they work. If you want air fryer recipes you can trust, see our recipe index (linked below) or search here:
Browse full recipe index →
Contact Us with Questions
If you have questions, feel free to reach out to us via our contact page or by leaving a comment. We will review it and get back to you as soon as possible.
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