How to Clean Your Stainless Steel Air Fryer Basket Without Scratching It

Published: 8 Dec 2025

Close-up of a stainless steel air fryer basket being cleaned with a soft microfiber cloth, gentle light, kitchen background.

Cleaning a stainless steel air fryer basket can feel tricky, especially when you want it spotless without leaving scratches behind. The good news? With the right steps and a few gentle tools, you can remove grease and baked-on bits while keeping the metal smooth and shiny.

Many people damage their basket simply by using the wrong sponge or rushing the cleaning process. This guide shows you how to clean your stainless steel air fryer basket safely, scratch-free, and stress-free — so it lasts longer and performs better every day.

Table of Content

Quick Clean After Every Use
Stubborn Grease — Safe Scratch-Free Cleaning Methods
Do’s and Don’ts — Scratch-Free Safety Tips
Deep-Clean Routine — Monthly Scratch-Free Care
Rust Prevention Tips In A Stainless Steel Basket
Common Mistakes That Lead to Scratches in a Air Fryer Basket
FAQ
Key Takeaways

Quick Clean After Every Use

A simple daily clean keeps grease from sticking and prevents scratches caused by scrubbing too hard later. These small steps take only a few minutes but make your stainless steel basket last much longer.

Let the Basket Cool and Remove It Carefully

Allow the basket to cool completely before touching.
Handle gently to avoid dropping or scraping against the air fryer.
Moving it while hot can warp the metal.

Rinse With Warm Soapy Water Using a Soft Sponge

Use mild dish soap and warm water to loosen fresh grease.
Clean with a soft sponge or microfiber cloth to prevent scratches.
Avoid rough scrubbers at this stage; early cleaning should be gentle.

Stubborn Grease — Safe Scratch-Free Cleaning Methods

Sometimes, daily cleaning isn’t enough, and baked-on grease can stick to your stainless steel basket. Using scratch-free methods ensures your basket stays shiny while removing tough residue safely.

1. Soak in Warm, Soapy Water

Fill a sink or basin with warm water and mild dish soap.
Let the basket soak for 15–30 minutes to loosen grease.
Use a soft sponge afterward for gentle, scratch-free cleaning.

2. Use a Baking Soda Paste for Stubborn Spots

Mix baking soda with a few drops of water or dish soap to make a thick paste.
Apply it to baked-on grease and let it sit 15–30 minutes.
Scrub gently with a soft brush or sponge to lift residue without scratching.

3. Dishwasher Tablet Soak (Optional for Heavy Buildup)

Dissolve a dishwasher tablet in hot water in a sink (never inside the appliance).
Soak the basket for 15–20 minutes to tackle tough grease.
Rinse thoroughly and dry completely before using again.

Using soft sponges or microfiber cloths helps clean your basket without scratches. If you’re also curious about cleaning fabrics safely, check out our guide on the best cleaning tools for delicate fabrics.

Do’s and Don’ts — Scratch-Free Safety Tips

Following a few simple safety rules protects your stainless steel air fryer basket and keeps it scratch-free. These tips also help maintain your warranty and extend the life of your appliance.

Do — Use Soft Tools Only

Stick to sponges, microfiber cloths, or soft nylon brushes.
Soft tools remove grease without scratching the surface.
Always check the manufacturer’s recommendations for cleaning tools

Don’t — Use Abrasive or Metal Scrubbers

Avoid steel wool or rough scouring pads; they can leave permanent scratches.
Never use harsh oven cleaners or bleach directly on stainless steel.

Do — Dry Thoroughly After Cleaning

Wipe with a soft towel or let air dry completely.
Moisture left on stainless steel can cause spots or rust over time.

Don’t — Immerse Hot Baskets in Cold Water

Sudden temperature changes can warp or damage the basket.
Always allow the basket to cool before washing.

After cleaning your stainless steel basket, it’s important to know How to use an Air Fryer Effectively to get the best results and maintain its longevity.

Deep-Clean Routine — Monthly Scratch-Free Care

Even with regular quick cleaning, monthly deep cleans keep your stainless steel air fryer basket free from stubborn grease, odors, and residue. Doing it safely ensures your basket stays scratch-free and lasts longer.

Step 1: Disassemble the Basket

Remove all detachable parts carefully.
Check for clips or screws and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Handling parts gently prevents scratches or bending.

Step 2: Soak Parts in Warm, Soapy Water

Fill a basin with warm water and mild dish soap.
Soak 30–45 minutes to loosen tough grease.
Use a soft sponge or brush to gently scrub any remaining residue.

Step 3: Apply Baking Soda Paste for Stubborn Spots

Baking soda paste being applied to a stainless steel air fryer basket, removing grease

Mix baking soda with water or dish soap to make a thick paste.
Apply to baked-on grease and let it sit 15–30 minutes.
Scrub gently with a soft nylon brush to avoid scratches.

Step 4: Rinse Thoroughly and Dry Completely

Rinse all parts under warm running water.
Wipe with a soft cloth or towel and allow air drying.
Ensuring complete dryness prevents rust and water spots.

Step 5: Reassemble and Inspect

Carefully reattach all parts once fully dry.
Check for leftover residue or spots and repeat cleaning if needed.

Once your stainless steel air fryer basket is clean, you can try recipes like How to Air Fry Chicken Wings Perfectly for crispy, delicious results.

Rust Prevention Tips In A Stainless Steel Basket

Protecting your stainless steel air fryer basket from rust is simple when you follow these habits. These steps help maintain the finish and extend its lifespan.

Dry Immediately After Washing

Towel-dry the basket fully, including corners and edges.
Remove hidden droplets to stop moisture buildup.
Leave it on a rack for a few minutes to ensure complete air-drying.

Avoid Long Soaking

Do not leave the basket submerged for extended periods.
Long soaking can weaken the protective stainless-steel layer.
For stuck food, use warm water and mild soap instead of soaking.

Use Mild Cleaners Only

Stick to gentle dish soaps for daily cleaning.
Avoid bleach or strong chemicals that damage the coating.
Rinse thoroughly to remove any leftover soap that may cause spotting.

Store in a Dry Area

Ensure the basket is completely dry before putting it back.
Humid storage spaces can cause slow rusting.
Keep the air fryer slightly open after cleaning to allow airflow.

Common Mistakes That Lead to Scratches in a Air Fryer Basket

Use a clean and neat Air Fryer for Healthy, Easy Cooking.

This table gives you a quick overview of the most common mistakes and the safer alternatives to keep your basket scratch-free.

Mistake	Why It Causes Scratches	Safer Alternative
Using harsh scrubbers (steel wool, rough pads)	Abrasive textures create deep, permanent scratch marks.	Use soft sponges, microfiber cloths, or nylon brushes.
Stacking heavy utensils or pans in the basket	Pressure and friction damage the surface over time.	Store separately or keep inside the air fryer when not in use.
Scraping food with metal forks or spoons	Metal edges leave thin scratch lines instantly.	Use silicone, wooden, or nylon tools.
Using strong chemicals too often	Harsh cleaners weaken the protective stainless steel layer.	Clean with mild dish soap and warm water.

This quick summary makes it easier to avoid habits that lead to scratches and damage.

To learn about choosing and using the right device for help in cooking, check out our complete guide on smart meat thermometer for air fryers for tips, models, and step‑by‑step setup help.

FAQ

Can I put my stainless steel air fryer basket in the dishwasher?

Yes, if the manufacturer says it’s dishwasher-safe. However, hand washing is safer because dishwashers’ high heat and strong detergents can wear down coatings or damage stainless steel over time.

What’s the safest way to clean baked-on grease from an air fryer basket?

Soak the basket in warm, soapy water for 15–30 minutes first. Then gently scrub with a soft sponge or nylon brush. For very stubborn spots, a baking soda paste works without scratching the surface.

Are there any cleaning tools I should never use on a stainless steel air fryer basket?

Avoid steel wool, metal scouring pads, and harsh chemical cleaners. These are too abrasive and can scratch or ruin the protective coating, making the basket stickier and unsafe over time.

How often should I clean the air fryer basket to keep it in good condition?

Clean the basket after every use, even with a quick rinse and wipe. Regular cleaning prevents grease buildup, avoids stubborn stains, and maintains the smooth stainless steel finish.

What should I do if my air fryer basket starts showing rust or coating damage?

Dry the basket thoroughly after washing and avoid long soaking sessions. If rust or peeling is severe, it’s safer to replace the basket, as damaged coating can affect safety and performance.

Key Takeaways

Keeping your stainless steel air fryer basket clean doesn’t have to be difficult. With gentle tools, proper techniques, and routine care, you can remove grease, prevent scratches, and maintain a shiny, long-lasting finish.

Remember, using scratch-free methods and following manufacturer instructions is the best way to protect your basket. A clean basket not only looks great but also ensures your air fryer performs at its best every time you cook.