How to Clean Cooks Air Fryer? Simple Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction

Air fryers have become a non-negotiable staple in modern kitchens, and Cooks is one of the most trusted brands for affordable, reliable models that deliver crispy, low-fat results with minimal effort. But if you’ve ever noticed your air fryer smoking during cooking, lingering with old food odors, or taking longer to cook your favorite dishes, the culprit is almost always poor cleaning habits. Many people assume air fryers are “no-fuss” appliances that don’t need regular upkeep, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. If you’ve been wondering How to Clean Cooks Air Fryer? properly, you’re in the right place. This in-depth guide covers every step of the process, from quick daily wipe-downs to deep cleans for stubborn grease and odors, plus tips to keep your appliance running like new for years. No special tools or harsh chemicals required—just simple, safe steps anyone can follow.

• Introduction
• Why Regular Cleaning of Your Cooks Air Fryer Matters
• What You’ll Need to Clean Your Cooks Air Fryer
• Pre-Cleaning Safety Steps
• Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Cooks Air Fryer Basket and Tray
• How to Clean the Inner Cavity of Your Cooks Air Fryer
• Cleaning the Heating Element Safely
• Cleaning the Exterior and Control Panel
• Cleaning Cooks Air Fryer Accessories
• Deep Cleaning for Stubborn Buildup and Odors
• Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Cooks Air Fryer Clean Between Uses
• Common Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid
• Frequently Asked Questions About Cleaning Cooks Air Fryers
• Conclusion

Why Regular Cleaning of Your Cooks Air Fryer Matters

Learning How to Clean Cooks Air Fryer? regularly isn’t just about keeping your kitchen looking tidy—it’s critical for food safety, cooking performance, and the lifespan of your appliance. When you cook, grease and tiny food particles splatter onto the heating element, interior walls, and basket. Over time, this buildup can cause a range of problems:

• Food safety risks: Leftover food particles can harbor bacteria and mold, which can transfer to the food you cook next, leading to foodborne illness.
• Poor cooking performance: Grease buildup on the heating element blocks heat distribution, leading to uneven cooking, longer cook times, and excess smoke when you use the air fryer.
• Bad odors: Burnt-on grease and leftover food particles cause your air fryer to emit strong, unpleasant odors every time you turn it on, even if you’re cooking something fresh and mild.
• Shortened lifespan: Corrosion from built-up grease and moisture can damage the non-stick coating, heating element, and electrical components, causing your air fryer to break down years before its expected lifespan.

A quick 5-minute clean after each use and a monthly deep clean will eliminate all of these issues, ensuring your air fryer delivers crispy, delicious results every time.

What You’ll Need to Clean Your Cooks Air Fryer

You don’t need any fancy, expensive supplies to clean your Cooks air fryer—most of the items you need are already in your kitchen. Gather these supplies before you start:

• 2-3 soft microfiber cloths
• Non-abrasive sponge or soft-bristled brush
• Mild dish soap
• White distilled vinegar
• Baking soda
• Old toothbrush (for small crevices)
• Small bowl (for soaking parts and mixing cleaning solutions)
• Paper towels or a drying rack

To help you pick the right supply for each cleaning task, refer to this quick comparison table:

Pre-Cleaning Safety Steps

Before you start cleaning, it’s critical to follow these safety steps to avoid damaging your air fryer or injuring yourself:

1. Unplug the air fryer first: Never clean your air fryer while it’s plugged in. Unplug it from the wall outlet before you start any cleaning, even if you think it’s fully cooled.
2. Let it cool completely: Wait at least 30 minutes after use before cleaning. The heating element and interior walls stay hot for longer than you think, and touching them can cause serious burns.
3. Avoid submerging the main unit: Only the removable parts (basket, tray, crumb tray, accessories) should ever be placed in water or a dishwasher. Wipe the main air fryer body with a damp cloth only—submerging it in water will damage electrical components and create a fire or electric shock hazard.
4. Skip harsh chemicals: Never use oven cleaner, bleach, or abrasive all-purpose cleaners on your air fryer. These can damage the non-stick coating and leave toxic residues that transfer to your food.

Before you dive into learning How to Clean Cooks Air Fryer?, always follow these safety steps to avoid damage to the appliance or injury to yourself.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Cooks Air Fryer Basket and Tray

The basket and tray are the parts that get the dirtiest, so they need the most thorough cleaning. Follow these steps to get them spotless without damaging the non-stick coating:

Step 1: Remove and Discard Loose Debris

Pull the basket and tray out of the air fryer, and shake out all loose crumbs, food particles, and excess grease over a trash can. If your Cooks model has a removable crumb tray at the bottom of the main unit, pull that out and empty it as well. Use a dry microfiber cloth to wipe away any remaining loose debris from the bottom of the main unit.

Step 2: Soak the Basket and Tray

Fill a large sink or bowl with warm water and 2-3 drops of mild dish soap. Submerge the basket and tray fully, and let them soak for 10 to 15 minutes to loosen stuck-on food and grease. For extra stubborn buildup, add ½ cup of white vinegar to the soak water to help cut through grease. If your user manual confirms the basket and tray are dishwasher safe, you can place them on the top rack of your dishwasher, though hand washing is always better for extending the life of the non-stick coating.

Step 3: Scrub and Rinse

After soaking, use a soft, non-abrasive sponge or soft-bristled brush to scrub the basket and tray, focusing on any areas with stuck-on food or heavy grease. For tough, baked-on spots, make a thick paste of baking soda and a small amount of water, apply it to the spot, let it sit for 5 minutes, then scrub gently. Never use steel wool, harsh scouring pads, or sharp utensils, as these will scratch the non-stick coating and cause food to stick more over time, and may even cause the coating to flake into your food. Once all grime is removed, rinse the basket and tray thoroughly under warm running water to remove all soap and baking soda residue.

Step 4: Dry Thoroughly

Dry the basket and tray completely with a clean microfiber cloth, or set them on a drying rack to air dry for at least 30 minutes. It’s critical that all parts are 100% dry before you put them back into the air fryer, as moisture can lead to mold growth and electrical issues when you turn the appliance on. Once dry, slide the tray back into the main unit, then place the basket on top.

How to Clean the Inner Cavity of Your Cooks Air Fryer

The interior cavity of your air fryer collects grease splatters and food particles that can cause odors and uneven cooking if left unaddressed. Follow these steps to clean it safely:

1. Confirm the air fryer is unplugged and completely cool. Use a dry microfiber cloth to wipe out any loose crumbs or debris from the bottom and walls of the cavity.
2. Mix 1 cup of warm water with ½ cup of white vinegar in a small bowl. Dampen a microfiber cloth with the solution, then wring it out thoroughly so it’s not dripping at all—you never want liquid pooling inside the air fryer cavity.
3. Wipe down all interior surfaces, including the back wall, bottom, and the lip where the basket sits. For stuck-on grease spots, dip a soft-bristled brush into the vinegar solution, wring it out, and gently scrub the spot.
4. Wipe the entire interior again with a clean, damp cloth (wrung out well) to remove any vinegar or soap residue.
5. Dry the entire interior with a dry microfiber cloth to prevent moisture buildup.

Never pour liquid directly into the air fryer cavity or spray cleaning solution inside the unit, as this can seep into the heating element and electrical components, causing damage or even a fire hazard.

Cleaning the Heating Element Safely

The heating element is the most delicate part of your air fryer, and improper cleaning can cause it to malfunction or fail entirely. Follow these steps to clean it safely:

1. Unplug the air fryer and let it cool completely for at least 30 minutes.
2. Use a soft-bristled brush (like a clean paintbrush or old toothbrush) to gently brush away any loose food particles or light grease buildup from the heating element coils. Don’t press hard, as you can damage the protective coating on the coils that prevents food from sticking.
3. If there’s stubborn grease, dampen a microfiber cloth with a tiny bit of the vinegar solution, then wring it out until it’s almost completely dry. Very gently wipe the heating element coils—don’t saturate the cloth, and don’t scrub.
4. Let the heating element air dry completely for at least 30 minutes before using the air fryer again.

Avoid using harsh chemicals, abrasive tools, or excess liquid on the heating element, as this can corrode the coils and cause them to stop working.

Cleaning the Exterior and Control Panel

The exterior and control panel of your air fryer collect grease, fingerprints, and food splatters that can make your kitchen look messy, and even cause the controls to malfunction if grime builds up in the button crevices. Here’s how to clean them safely:

1. Unplug the air fryer before cleaning the exterior and controls to avoid accidental activation or electric shock.
2. Dampen a microfiber cloth with warm soapy water, then wring it out so it’s not dripping. Wipe down the entire exterior, including the top, sides, handle, and base. For greasy spots, let the soapy cloth sit on the spot for 30 seconds before wiping to loosen the grime.
3. For the control panel, use a barely damp cloth (almost dry) to wipe away fingerprints and surface grime. Never spray cleaner directly on the control panel, as moisture can seep into the buttons and digital display, causing them to malfunction. For stuck-on grime around the buttons and display, use a cotton swab dipped in a tiny bit of rubbing alcohol to clean the crevices.
4. Wipe the entire exterior and control panel again with a clean, dry microfiber cloth to remove any remaining moisture.

Avoid using glass cleaner, abrasive cleaners, or excess water on the exterior, as these can damage the finish and electrical components.

Cleaning Cooks Air Fryer Accessories

Most Cooks air fryer models come with extra accessories like skewer racks, pizza pans, roasting racks, or silicone liners. These need to be cleaned regularly too, as leftover food and grease can build up in their crevices. Follow these care tips based on the accessory material:

• Metal accessories (skewer racks, pizza pans): Soak in warm soapy water for 10 minutes, scrub with a non-abrasive sponge or soft-bristled brush to remove stuck-on food, rinse thoroughly, and dry completely.
• Silicone accessories (liners, silicone baskets): Most are dishwasher safe, but you can also hand wash them with warm soapy water. Silicone is non-stick, so food usually wipes right off with a damp cloth.
• Accessories with non-stick coating: Follow the same care as your main basket—avoid abrasive scrubbers and harsh chemicals, soak to loosen stuck-on food, and dry thoroughly.

For small crevices in racks or multi-part accessories, use an old toothbrush to scrub away hidden food particles that can cause odors and bacteria growth.

Deep Cleaning for Stubborn Buildup and Odors

Even with regular cleaning, you’ll need to do a deep clean once a month (or more often if you use your air fryer daily) to remove stubborn grease and lingering odors. Here are three simple, effective deep cleaning methods:

Method 1: Vinegar Steam Clean

This method loosens grease buildup and neutralizes strong odors without any scrubbing. Fill the air fryer basket with 1 cup of water and ½ cup of white vinegar. Place the basket back into the main unit, set the temperature to 350°F, and run for 3 to 5 minutes. The steam will loosen grease from the interior walls and heating element, and the vinegar will cut through odors. Let the air fryer cool completely, then wipe down the interior, basket, and tray with a damp cloth.

Method 2: Baking Soda Paste for Stuck-On Grease

For heavy, baked-on grease that won’t come off with regular scrubbing, make a thick paste of 3 parts baking soda and 1 part water. Apply the paste to the affected areas on the basket, tray, or interior, let it sit for 15 to 20 minutes, then scrub gently with a soft sponge. Rinse thoroughly and dry completely.

Method 3: Odor Removal for Lingering Smells

If your air fryer has a lingering smell from fish, garlic, or other strong foods, place a small open bowl of baking soda inside the air fryer (unplugged) overnight. The baking soda will absorb the odors. You can also run the air fryer empty at 350°F for 5 minutes after cleaning to burn off any remaining residue and smells.

Pro tip: If you use your air fryer daily, keep a small microfiber cloth and a bottle of mild dish soap next to your kitchen sink for quick post-use wipes—this takes 30 seconds and prevents 90% of buildup.

Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Cooks Air Fryer Clean Between Uses

The easiest way to answer How to Clean Cooks Air Fryer? with minimal effort is to build small, consistent cleaning habits that prevent buildup from forming in the first place. Follow these tips to cut down on deep cleaning time:

1. Wipe the basket and tray immediately after each use: While the basket and tray are still warm (not hot) after cooking, wipe them down with a damp cloth to remove loose grease and food particles before they harden.
2. Use liners to catch mess: Parchment paper liners or reusable silicone air fryer liners catch crumbs and grease, so you don’t have to scrub the basket as often. Just make sure the liners are food-safe and don’t cover the entire basket, as that can block air flow and cause overheating.
3. Empty the crumb tray after every use: Most Cooks air fryer models have a removable crumb tray at the bottom of the main unit—empty it after each use to prevent grease and food buildup.
4. Avoid overcrowding the basket: Overcrowding causes food to overlap and drip, creating more mess and requiring more frequent cleaning. Leave space between food items for air to circulate properly.
5. Wipe the exterior and control panel weekly: A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth once a week prevents grease and grime from building up and causing control malfunctions.

Common Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid

Even with the best intentions, it’s easy to make cleaning mistakes that damage your air fryer or reduce its effectiveness. Avoid these common errors:

1. Using abrasive scrubbers: Steel wool, harsh scouring pads, and sharp utensils can scratch the non-stick coating, leading to food sticking and potentially flaking coating into your food. Stick to soft sponges, soft-bristled brushes, and microfiber cloths only.
2. Submerging the main unit in water: Never put the main air fryer body under running water or soak it in a sink, as this can damage electrical components and cause a fire or electric shock. Only clean removable parts in water, and wipe the main unit with a damp cloth.
3. Using harsh chemical cleaners: Oven cleaner, bleach, and other harsh chemicals can damage the non-stick coating and leave toxic residues that transfer to your food. Stick to mild dish soap, white vinegar, and baking soda for all cleaning tasks.
4. Over-saturating parts with liquid: Don’t pour water directly into the air fryer cavity or soak the heating element, as excess liquid can seep into electrical components and cause damage. Always wring out cloths well before wiping down any part of the air fryer.
5. Not drying parts completely: Reassembling the air fryer with wet parts can lead to mold and mildew growth, and can cause electrical issues when you turn it on. Always dry all parts thoroughly with a microfiber cloth or let them air dry completely before putting back together.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cleaning Cooks Air Fryers

Can I put my Cooks air fryer basket in the dishwasher?

Most Cooks air fryer baskets and trays are dishwasher safe, but always check your user manual first to confirm. If the non-stick coating is already scratched or damaged, hand washing is recommended to prevent further wear. Even if your model is dishwasher safe, hand washing with mild soap and a soft sponge will extend the life of the non-stick coating far longer than the dishwasher’s high heat and harsh detergents.

How often should I deep clean my Cooks air fryer?

If you use your air fryer 3-4 times a week, deep clean it once a month. If you use it less frequently, a deep clean every 2-3 months is sufficient. You should do a quick clean of the basket, tray, and crumb tray after every use, and wipe the interior and exterior once a week to prevent buildup.

Why does my Cooks air fryer smell like burnt plastic when I turn it on?

This is usually caused by leftover grease or food particles burning off the heating element or interior surfaces. It’s also common with brand new air fryers, as the manufacturing coating burns off the first few times you use it. To fix the smell, do a vinegar steam clean as outlined in the deep cleaning section, and make sure to wipe down the heating element and interior after each use to prevent future buildup.

Can I use cooking spray on my Cooks air fryer basket?

Aerosol cooking sprays contain propellants and additives that can damage the non-stick coating of your air fryer basket over time, causing it to peel and stick. Instead, use a small amount of regular cooking oil brushed directly onto the basket, or use a silicone air fryer liner to prevent sticking without damaging the coating.

What should I do if food is stuck to the heating element?

Never scrub the heating element with a hard brush or abrasive tool. First, unplug the air fryer and let it cool completely. Use a soft-bristled brush or old toothbrush to gently brush away loose particles. If there’s still stuck-on food, dampen a cloth with a tiny bit of vinegar solution, wring it out completely, and gently wipe the heating element. Let it air dry fully before using the air fryer again. If the stuck-on food won’t come off, contact Cooks customer support for guidance—don’t try to scrape it off with a sharp tool, as this can damage the heating element.

Conclusion

Cleaning your Cooks air fryer doesn’t have to be a time-consuming chore. With regular quick cleans after each use, weekly wipe-downs, and a monthly deep clean, you can keep your appliance free of grease, odors, and bacteria, and ensure it delivers perfectly cooked, crispy results every time. Now that you have this step-by-step guide, you never have to wonder How to Clean Cooks Air Fryer? again—just follow these simple, safe steps, and your air fryer will stay in top condition for years to come. A well-maintained air fryer is a worthwhile investment for any kitchen, and a little regular cleaning goes a long way in getting the most value out of your appliance.