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

Air fryers are a convenient kitchen appliance that gives food a fried texture with minimal oil. However, the question of whether you can use paper towels in an air fryer is a common concern. The answer is no—you should not use paper towels in an air fryer. Paper towels are combustible and flammable, and air fryers operate at high temperatures, so using paper towels could cause a fire hazard. Paper towels can also obstruct airflow and cause uneven cooking. Instead, use parchment paper or aluminium foil to line your air fryer, ensuring proper airflow by poking holes or avoiding covering all the basket holes. For a reusable option, silicone liners are a great choice.

Paper towels are a fire hazard in air fryers

The inside of an air fryer can reach temperatures of up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, which is high enough to ignite paper towels. Paper towels are not designed to withstand these high temperatures and will burn. This poses a significant fire risk, especially when the paper towel comes into contact with the heating element.

Additionally, using paper towels in an air fryer can obstruct the holes in the basket, affecting airflow and leading to uneven cooking. This can result in unevenly cooked food and an increased fire risk as the paper towel heats up. It is crucial to avoid placing paper towels near the heating elements and to ensure that air can circulate freely.

Instead of paper towels, it is recommended to use parchment paper or aluminium foil to line the air fryer basket. These materials are designed to withstand higher temperatures and will not obstruct airflow. If using parchment paper, it is important to ensure that food weighs it down to prevent it from flying into the heating element and potentially catching fire.

Another option is to use reusable silicone liners, which are heavier than paper and do not pose a fire risk. These liners are also easier to clean and more environmentally friendly than disposable options. It is imperative to prioritize safety when using kitchen appliances and to follow the manufacturer's guidelines and instructions for safe use.

Parchment paper is safe to use in air fryers

Air fryers are a convenient and healthier alternative to deep frying, but it's important to know what accessories and materials are compatible with them. While paper towels are not recommended due to fire risk, parchment paper can be safely used in air fryers with some precautions.

Parchment paper is a safe and effective liner for air fryers, preventing food from sticking to the basket and making cleanup easier. It can withstand temperatures up to about 420-450°F (215-232°C), which is suitable for most air frying recipes. However, it's crucial to follow certain guidelines to ensure safe usage:

• Always use food-grade parchment paper designed for cooking, as it is heat resistant and safe for food.
• Check the maximum temperature restriction on the parchment paper packaging and adjust the air fryer's temperature accordingly. Exceeding the limit can cause the paper to burn, ruining your meal and posing a fire hazard.
• Cut the parchment paper slightly smaller than the base of the basket to ensure proper air circulation. You can also use pre-cut perforated parchment paper designed for air fryers.
• Weigh down the parchment paper with food to prevent it from lifting and coming into contact with the heating element.
• Dispose of the used parchment paper after cooking to avoid contamination or decreased performance during your next cooking session.

By following these precautions, you can safely use parchment paper in your air fryer, enjoying the benefits of easier cleanup and preventing food from sticking without compromising safety.

Paper towels can cause uneven cooking

Air fryers cook food differently from standard ovens. They cook food by rapidly circulating hot air through the small holes in the air frying basket, allowing hot air to reach every side of the food. The cooking size of an air fryer is far smaller than a standard oven, which is why it takes less time and energy to heat up.

Using paper towels in an air fryer can obstruct the holes in the basket, affecting airflow and cooking your food unevenly. This is because paper towels are lightweight and easily flammable. They can fly up to the heating element and catch fire. Paper towels are not oven-safe either, as they can ignite at high temperatures.

If you want to line your air fryer basket, you can use parchment paper or aluminium foil, which are both safe and easy to use. If you have a rack in your air fryer, line it with foil or parchment paper to ensure proper airflow. If you need to cook your food directly on the bottom of the basket, poke a few small holes in the paper or foil, or avoid covering the entire basket.

You can also buy reusable silicone liners, which are dishwasher-safe and made specifically for air fryer cooking. These are heavier than paper, so there is no risk of them flying into the heating element and catching fire.

Paper towels are not oven-safe

Air fryers work by rapidly circulating hot air through the small holes in the air frying basket, allowing hot air to reach every side of the food. The inside of an air fryer can heat up quickly and reach temperatures of up to 400°F, which is high enough to ignite paper towels. Paper towels are flammable when exposed to such high temperatures, which is why they are not oven-safe.

The use of paper towels in an air fryer would also obstruct the holes in the basket, affecting airflow and causing uneven cooking. Therefore, it is recommended to use parchment paper or aluminium foil to line air fryer baskets instead of paper towels. These materials are designed to withstand high temperatures and allow for proper airflow, ensuring even cooking.

It is important to always prioritise safety when using kitchen appliances. Avoid placing paper towels near heating elements or covering the bottom where grease collects. Instead, opt for safer alternatives such as parchment paper or reusable silicone liners.

Safer alternatives to paper towels

It is not recommended to put paper towels in an air fryer due to the risk of fire and uneven cooking. Paper towels are highly combustible and can easily catch fire in the extreme temperatures of an air fryer. Additionally, they can obstruct airflow, leading to undercooked or unevenly cooked food.

Parchment Paper

Parchment paper is designed to withstand high temperatures and is a great option for lining the air fryer basket. It ensures your food doesn't stick and helps to absorb excess oil. Look for perforated circles designed specifically for air fryers, and ensure the paper doesn't cover any heating coils or elements to prevent fire hazards.

Reusable Silicone Liners

Silicone liners are heat-resistant and reusable, making them perfect for the bottom of the air fryer basket. They are easy to clean and can be washed after each use, reducing waste.

Air Fryer Liners

Specially designed liners made to fit perfectly inside your air fryer are a great option. These non-stick liners make cleanup a breeze and help to keep your air fryer in top condition.

Aluminum Foil (Tin Foil)

Aluminum foil can be moulded to fit the shape of your food and is great for catching excess oil. Just ensure it doesn't block any air vents and avoid overusing it to maintain proper airflow.

Oven-Safe Baking Dishes

For saucy or messy dishes, consider placing a small oven-safe dish inside the air fryer basket. This will contain the food and reduce the amount of mess and cleanup required.

Remember, always follow the safety guidelines provided by the manufacturer of your air fryer, and prioritise safety when using kitchen appliances.

Frequently asked questions