Air Fryer Paper Towel Safety: Do's And Don'ts

Air fryers have become increasingly popular, and with this popularity comes a myriad of questions about the dos and don'ts of this cooking method. One of the most common questions is whether it is safe to use paper towels in an air fryer. The short answer is no; it is not recommended to use paper towels in an air fryer as it poses a fire hazard and can affect airflow, leading to uneven cooking. So, what are the alternatives?

Paper towels are a fire hazard in air fryers

The air inside an air fryer can get very hot, and the airflow is essential to the cooking process. While a paper towel can be useful for cleaning the exterior of the appliance, it should not be used during cooking. Restricting the airflow of the machine by using a paper towel can cause a fire.

Some alternatives to paper towels in an air fryer include parchment paper, silicone liners, and aluminium foil. Parchment paper has a silicone coating and can withstand high temperatures above 200°C or 400°F, which are typical air fryer operating temperatures. Perforated parchment paper is even better as it allows for the free circulation of air, resulting in even cooking. Silicone liners are also a good option as they are heavier than paper and will not fly up to the heating element, making them safer and more environmentally friendly.

It is important to remember that any paper product, including napkins and kitchen towels, should not be used in an air fryer due to the risk of fire. Always refer to the user manual for specific instructions and recommendations for your particular air fryer model.

Alternatives to paper towels in air fryers

Paper towels are a no-go in an air fryer as they pose a fire hazard and can cause safety issues. They can also obstruct airflow, leading to uneven cooking. So, what can you use instead? Here are some alternatives to paper towels in air fryers:

Parchment Paper

Parchment paper (or baking paper) is a great alternative as it is specifically designed for cooking. It can withstand high temperatures and ensures your food doesn't stick. Parchment paper now comes in air fryer-friendly perforated circles, making it easy to use. Just make sure it doesn't cover any heating coils or elements.

Aluminum Foil

Aluminum foil (or tin foil) is versatile and can be moulded to fit the shape of your food. It's important to ensure it doesn't block any air vents and to be mindful of how much you use to avoid affecting airflow and causing uneven cooking.

Silicone Mats

Silicone mats are heat-resistant and reusable. They are perfect for placing at the bottom of the air fryer basket and can be easily cleaned.

Air Fryer Liners

Specially designed liners made to fit perfectly inside your air fryer are another option. These are non-stick and make cleanup a breeze.

Oven-Safe Baking Dishes

If you're cooking something saucy or messy, consider placing a small oven-safe dish inside the air fryer basket. This will contain the food and reduce the mess. Just make sure the dish is suitable for high temperatures and fits comfortably inside the basket.

Remember, while these alternatives are great for convenience and cleanliness, always ensure there is enough space for proper air circulation in your air fryer to achieve optimal cooking results.

Paper towels disrupt airflow in air fryers

Paper towels are a common kitchen item used for cleaning, wiping, lining, and blotting. However, it is not recommended to put paper towels in an air fryer, especially while it is operating. Here are the reasons why paper towels disrupt airflow in air fryers:

Fire Hazard:

Paper towels are highly flammable and can easily catch fire when placed inside an air fryer. Air fryers have a heating element that gets very hot, and the extreme airflow can cause the paper towel to move around and potentially come into contact with the heating element, igniting a fire.

Uneven Airflow and Cooking:

Air fryers rely on circulating hot air to cook food evenly. Paper towels can block this airflow, leading to uneven cooking. The paper towel may not allow proper air circulation within the fryer, resulting in pockets of hot and cold air. This can also potentially damage the air fryer by causing it to work harder to maintain the set temperature.

Health Hazard:

Uneven airflow caused by paper towels can lead to unevenly cooked food, especially when cooking meat. This may result in a serious health hazard as undercooked meat can pose a risk of foodborne illnesses.

Alternative Options:

Instead of paper towels, it is recommended to use parchment paper or silicone liners specifically designed for air fryers. These products allow proper airflow while also making cleanup easier. Additionally, you can use aluminum foil in some cases, but it is important to check your air fryer's user manual first.

Paper towels cause uneven cooking

Air fryers are a popular and economical way to cook a variety of foods, from fried foods to grilled meats and vegetables. They work by circulating hot air around the food inside the cooking basket, heating it up and cooking it.

Paper towels are lightweight and can easily be blown around by the airflow in an air fryer. This means they can block the hot air from circulating properly, leading to uneven cooking. Even if the paper towels are secured in place, they can still obstruct the airflow, causing the food to cook unevenly. This can result in the food losing the right consistency and, in the case of meat, may pose a serious health hazard.

Paper towels can also pose a fire risk if they come loose and get lodged in the machine's heating element. They are highly flammable and can easily catch fire when placed inside an air fryer, so it is not recommended to use them during cooking.

If you want to absorb excess oil, it is better to use a paper towel to pat the food before or after cooking. Parchment paper or silicone liners can also be used inside the air fryer to keep it clean and absorb excess oil without disrupting airflow.

Cleaning an air fryer

Air fryers are often touted for their ease of use and convenience, but cleaning them can be a challenge. Here are some detailed instructions and tips to help you keep your air fryer clean and well-maintained.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning an Air Fryer

• Clean the Air Fryer Right After Using: It is best to clean your air fryer immediately after use. Turn off the machine, unplug it, and let it cool down. Don't wait too long, as the food residue will become harder to remove if it dries and sticks to the surface.
• Remove Removable Parts: Take out the removable inner basket and pan. These can usually be washed with warm, soapy water. You can also soak them in soapy water or put them in the dishwasher if they are dishwasher-safe (check the manufacturer's instructions).
• Wipe Down the Bottom Chamber: The bottom chamber of the air fryer is where crumbs, oil residue, and meat drippings collect. Use a damp paper towel or clean dish towel to wipe it out and then let it air dry.
• Clean the Heating Element: The heating element should only be wiped down once the machine has completely cooled. You may need to tip or invert the machine for easier access.
• Dry Before Reassembling: Make sure all parts are completely dry before putting your air fryer back together and storing it away.
• Wipe Down the Outside: Once the air fryer has cooled down, use a clean, damp cloth or paper towel to wipe down the exterior of the machine.

Additional Tips for Cleaning an Air Fryer:

• Avoid Abrasive Materials: Avoid using abrasive sponges, sharp utensils, or scrub brushes on non-stick surfaces to prevent scratching.
• Use Parchment Paper or Liners: Using parchment paper or air fryer liners can help catch drippings and make cleanup easier. However, be careful that the paper doesn't block airflow or get pulled into the heating element.
• Steam Cleaning: Some people recommend steam cleaning the inside of the air fryer by filling the tray with water, adding liquid soap and lemon, and running it for 10-15 minutes. However, this method may not completely clean the inside, and there are concerns about the safety of breathing in the fumes.
• Natural Cleaners: You can use natural cleaners like lemon, vinegar, or baking soda to help break down grease and remove odours.
• Disassemble for Deep Cleaning: For a deep clean, unplug the air fryer and remove all trays and baskets. Use a damp cloth, warm water, and a mild soap or baking soda to scrub away built-up grease, especially around the heating elements.

Frequently asked questions