Air frying has become a kitchen game-changer, allowing us to enjoy delicious, crispy foods with far less oil than traditional deep frying. But to truly unlock your air fryer’s potential and keep your food from sticking, you need the right cooking spray. Not just any old spray will do! Using the wrong type can leave a sticky residue on your air fryer basket, produce unwanted smoke, or even ruin your meal. That’s why finding the best cooking spray for air fryer is crucial.
In this guide, we’ll dive deep into the top options available, helping you make an informed choice for healthier, hassle-free air frying. We’ve rounded up 10 fantastic cooking sprays, including both convenient aerosol cans and reusable oil misters, that are perfect for delivering that desired golden crisp.
Why Use a Specific Cooking Spray for Air Fryers?
You might be wondering, “Can’t I just use regular Pam?” Well, not really. Many standard cooking sprays contain propellants and anti-foaming agents like soy lecithin or dimethyl silicone, which can bake onto your air fryer’s non-stick coating over time. This leaves a sticky, hard-to-remove residue that diminishes the non-stick properties and can affect the taste of your food.
The best cooking spray for air fryer is typically made from pure oils, often with high smoke points, and in aerosol forms, they avoid the problematic additives. Reusable oil sprayers are also a fantastic alternative, allowing you to use your preferred high-quality oil like avocado or olive oil.
Let’s explore our top picks!
Our Top 10 Best Cooking Sprays for Air Fryer
Mantova Air Fryer Spray 450F Smoke Point – All-Natural…
Mantova’s Air Fryer Spray stands out for its commitment to purity and performance. Crafted from all-natural, pure oil, this spray is free from the additives and artificial flavors that can cause issues in your air fryer. With a robust smoke point of 450°F, it’s designed to withstand the high temperatures of air frying, ensuring your food gets crispy without burning the oil or leaving a sticky mess. It’s a versatile choice that’s great for anything from roasting veggies to grilling meats, making it a true kitchen multi-tasker.
- Key Features:
- All-Natural Ingredients: Made with pure oil, free of additives and artificial flavors.
- High Smoke Point: Stands up to temperatures as high as 450°F, perfect for high-heat cooking.
- Versatile: Great for air fryers, roasting, grilling, baking, and more.
- Pros:
- Pure ingredients mean no sticky residue build-up.
- Excellent for high-heat cooking, preventing smoke.
- Multi-purpose use beyond just air frying.
- Helps food achieve a beautiful crisp.
- Cons:
- May be pricier than some generic sprays.
- Only available as a pre-filled can, not reusable.
- User Impressions: Users frequently praise Mantova for its clean spray and the absence of any funky odors or residue. Many appreciate its high smoke point, which gives them peace of mind when air frying at higher temperatures. It’s often described as a reliable, go-to cooking oil spray for various kitchen tasks.
- See it on Amazon here
PAM Air Fryer No-Stick Cooking Spray, 6 oz.
PAM, a household name in cooking sprays, has specifically formulated an Air Fryer No-Stick Cooking Spray to meet the demands of this popular appliance. This 6 oz can is engineered to provide superior non-stick performance under the high temperatures and unique cooking conditions of an air fryer. What’s more, it’s made without artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors, addressing common concerns about traditional sprays. It’s a convenient solution for easy cleanup after enjoying your favorite air-fried meals.
- Key Features:
- One 6 oz. can of PAM Air Fryer No-Stick Cooking Spray.
- Non-stick spray provides easy cleanup after your favorite air-fried meals.
- Air fryer spray made with no artificial preservatives, colors or flavors.
- Formulated for the high temperatures and cooking conditions of an air fryer.
- Stock up on PAM cooking spray for superior no-stick performance.
- Pros:
- Specifically designed for air fryer use, reducing residue concerns.
- Easy and convenient to use.
- Helps prevent food from sticking effectively.
- Free from common artificial additives.
- Cons:
- Still an aerosol can, some users prefer propellant-free options.
- The type of oil isn’t explicitly stated beyond “vegetable oil.”
- User Impressions: Customers often find this PAM spray to be a reliable and convenient option for their air fryers, reporting good non-stick results. Its availability and ease of use are frequently highlighted, making it a popular choice for those seeking a dedicated air fryer spray.
- See it on Amazon here
FLAIROSOL OLIVIA Oil Sprayer for Cooking, 200ml Glass Olive…
The FLAIROSOL OLIVIA Oil Sprayer offers a reusable and eco-friendly alternative to disposable cans, putting you in complete control of your oil choice. This advanced oil mister boasts an ultra-fine, consistent fan-spray atomizing nozzle that delivers precise oil mist for even coverage, making it ideal for calorie-controlled cooking (approx. 1g per spray). Crafted from premium quality glass with a built-in filter and leak-proof design, it’s durable, easy to refill, and versatile enough for various liquids beyond just olive oil, from avocado oil to soy sauce.
- Key Features:
- Precise Oil Control: Delivers a consistent, ultra-fine spray (approx. 1g per stroke).
- Advanced Olive Oil Sprayer: Built-in filter, leakproof, anti-drip trigger, unique buckle design.
- Glass Oil Spray: Made from premium quality glass, durable and handy.
- Versatile Oil Sprayer Bottle: Works with all types of cooking liquids (olive, avocado, soy sauce, etc.).
- Easy To Use: Ergonomic handle, wide opening for easy refill, 200ml capacity.
- Pros:
- Eco-friendly and cost-effective in the long run.
- Allows use of any preferred oil, including high smoke point varieties.
- Delivers an incredibly fine, even mist, perfect for air frying.
- Precise control over oil quantity for healthier cooking.
- Durable glass construction with leak-proof design.
- Cons:
- Requires manual pumping or trigger pressing for operation.
- Initial priming may be needed.
- User Impressions: Reviewers rave about the fine mist and control offered by the FLAIROSOL OLIVIA sprayer, often noting its superior performance compared to other pump sprayers. Its robust glass build and versatility are frequently praised, making it a favorite for those aiming for healthier cooking and less waste.
- See it on Amazon here
Primal Kitchen Air Fryer Spray Oil, 4.7 ounces
Primal Kitchen brings its commitment to wholesome ingredients to the world of air frying with this convenient spray oil. Made with a high-quality blend of avocado oil and MCT oil from coconuts, it adds a distinct flavor profile with extracts of garlic, onion, and black pepper, enhancing your air-fried chicken, veggies, and fries. A major plus is that it’s free from chemical propellants and silicone, meaning you can spray directly onto your food with peace of mind. Plus, it’s Certified Paleo, Keto Certified, Whole30 Approved, and Non-GMO Project Verified, catering to various dietary needs.
- Key Features:
- Convenient Cooking Spray: Blend of high-quality avocado oil and MCT oil.
- No Mess, Less Stress: Quick-spray formula with extracts of familiar seasonings.
- No Chemical Propellants: Free from chemical propellants and silicone.
- Ingredients with Integrity: Certified Paleo, Keto Certified, Whole30 Approved, Non-GMO Project Verified.
- The Perfect Cooking Companion: Easy update for healthy kitchen staples.
- Pros:
- Contains beneficial avocado and MCT oils.
- Adds pre-seasoned flavor, reducing extra steps.
- Free from problematic propellants and silicones.
- Aligns with popular healthy eating plans.
- High smoke point of avocado oil is great for air frying.
- Cons:
- Specific flavor might not suit all dishes.
- Smaller can size compared to some competitors.
- User Impressions: Many users appreciate Primal Kitchen’s focus on clean ingredients and the added flavor profile this spray provides. It’s particularly popular among those following specific dietary lifestyles like Keto or Whole30, who value its certification and propellant-free nature for their air fryer cooking.
- See it on Amazon here
TrendPlain 16oz/470ml Glass Olive Oil Sprayer for Cooking –…
The TrendPlain Glass Olive Oil Sprayer offers exceptional versatility with its dual dispensing feature – you can either spray a fine mist or pour a steady stream, giving you total control in the kitchen. This large-capacity 16oz oil dispenser bottle is designed for efficiency and cleanliness, helping keep your cooking space organized. Its precision spray nozzle delivers a fine mist or a steady stream, and each spray dispenses a tiny 0.15g of oil, making it an excellent tool for managing oil intake and promoting healthier, calorie-controlled cooking. Made from BPA-free, odorless, and heat-resistant glass, it’s a safe and durable addition to any kitchen.
- Key Features:
- Lifetime Assurance: Backed by lifetime support.
- Dual Dispensing: Offers both spray and pour options for total control.
- Precision Spray Nozzle: Delivers a fine mist or steady stream.
- Control Oil Intake: Each spray dispenses 0.15g of oil.
- BPA-Free & Safe: Crafted from BPA-free, odorless, non-toxic, heat-resistant glass.
- Pros:
- Dual functionality (spray and pour) is highly versatile.
- Large capacity means less frequent refilling.
- Precise control over oil amount for healthier cooking.
- Durable, safe, and eco-friendly glass construction.
- Lifetime assurance offers peace of mind.
- Cons:
- Larger size might be bulky for some small kitchens.
- Requires manual pumping for spray function.
- User Impressions: Customers love the dual spray/pour feature and the impressive capacity of this TrendPlain sprayer. It’s frequently lauded for its ability to deliver a fine mist, which is perfect for air frying, and for its sturdy glass build. Users find it easy to clean and appreciate the health benefits of controlled oil usage.
- See it on Amazon here
PCBEAR Oil Sprayer for Cooking,100ml Oil Sprayer for Air…
The PCBEAR Oil Sprayer combines functionality with elegant design, featuring a powerful high-atomizing nozzle that ensures better spray effect and more uniform oil distribution for your air fryer and other cooking needs. Constructed from durable 304 stainless steel and edible high-transparency glass, it’s both robust and safe. Its thoughtful design includes a sealed and leak-proof inverted mechanism and an anti-slip texture for easy pressing. This small, exquisite, and portable oil mister even has a scale on the bottle body, encouraging scientific oil use for a healthier lifestyle, making it a widely used helper for kitchens, barbecues, and salads.
- Key Features:
- Powerful Nozzle: High atomizing nozzle for better, more uniform spray.
- Thoughtful Design: 304 stainless steel and edible glass, anti-slip texture, sealed and leak-proof.
- Convenient To Use: Small, exquisite, and easy to carry.
- Bottle Body: Edible high transparency glass with a scale for scientific oil use.
- Widely Used: Ideal for kitchens, barbecues, steaks, salads, air fryers, etc.
- Pros:
- Creates a very fine and even mist.
- Durable stainless steel and glass construction.
- Compact and portable for on-the-go cooking.
- Leak-proof design is a significant advantage.
- Scale on bottle helps monitor oil usage.
- Cons:
- Smaller capacity (100ml) requires more frequent refilling.
- Requires consistent pumping for continuous spray.
- User Impressions: Users frequently commend the PCBEAR sprayer for its robust build quality and the impressive fineness of its mist, which is perfect for ensuring even coverage in an air fryer. Its compact size and leak-proof nature make it a convenient choice for daily use and travel.
- See it on Amazon here
Oil Sprayer for Cooking- 200ml Glass Olive Oil Sprayer…
This 200ml Glass Olive Oil Sprayer is designed with health and convenience in mind, meeting food-grade material requirements for safe use with edible oils. It’s a multipurpose tool that excels at atomized spraying for everything from frying steak and grilling to air frying and dressing salads. One of its standout features is the precise oil flow control: each pull of the trigger dispenses an exact 1/4 teaspoon (1.5g) of oil, allowing for meticulous calorie counting. Lightweight and portable, this durable and unbreakable thick glass bottle is also easy to clean and leak-proof, making it a real practical little helper in the kitchen.
- Key Features:
- Food Grade Material Olive Sprayer: Safe, no peculiar smell, environmentally friendly.
- Multipurpose Oil Sprayer Bottle: Widely used for frying, grilling, baking, salad, air fryer.
- Effective Control of Oil Flow: Delivers 1/4 teaspoon (1.5g) per trigger pull.
- Portable To Carry: Lightweight (200ml capacity, 0.2lb weight).
- Leak-proof & Durable: Made of thick, clear, unbreakable glass, easy to clean.
- Pros:
- Excellent for calorie control with precise oil measurement.
- Food-grade materials ensure safety.
- Versatile for numerous cooking methods, including air frying.
- Portable and lightweight for convenience.
- Durable and easy to clean glass construction.
- Cons:
- Requires proper swinging motion for even coating (as per note).
- Manual pumping might not be preferred by all.
- User Impressions: Customers appreciate the clear measurement per spray, which helps immensely with dietary goals. The sprayer is praised for its sturdy glass and effective fine mist, making it a reliable addition for various cooking tasks, especially when trying to use less oil in the air fryer.
- See it on Amazon here
La Tourangelle, Avocado Oil Spray, Handcrafted from Premium…
La Tourangelle, renowned for its artisan oils, offers a premium Avocado Oil Spray that’s a true gem for both culinary and even beauty uses. Handcrafted from premium avocados, this emerald green oil is not only wonderful for salad dressings, fruit, or grilled fish but also boasts a high smoke point perfect for air frying. What sets it apart is its pure artisan oil in spray form – it’s non-aerosol, chemical-free, and alcohol-free, ensuring you get pure, high-quality oil with every spray. Committed to sustainability, La Tourangelle uses nature-friendly tin packaging, allowing you to cook with conscience.
- Key Features:
- For Food and Beyond: Handcrafted from premium avocados, great for cooking and skin/hair.
- Pure Artisan Oil in Spray Form: Non-aerosol, chemical-free, and alcohol-free.
- Delicious and Versatile: Ideal for salads, meats, pastas, and more.
- Gourmet and Sustainable: High-quality ingredients, artisan production, nature-friendly tin.
- Flavors of the World: Part of La Tourangelle’s range of premium oils.
- Pros:
- Pure, high-quality avocado oil with no propellants.
- High smoke point (avocado oil) is excellent for air frying.
- Versatile beyond cooking (e.g., skin/hair).
- Sustainable and environmentally conscious packaging.
- Delivers natural flavor and even coverage.
- Cons:
- Premium price point.
- The spray mechanism might be less fine than some pump sprayers.
- User Impressions: Users consistently praise the quality and purity of La Tourangelle’s avocado oil. They appreciate the non-aerosol spray, which provides a clean application for air frying without chemicals or residue. Many find it to be a healthy and delicious staple for their kitchens.
- See it on Amazon here
NORBASE Oil Sprayer for Cooking, 2 Pack Upgraded Olive…
The NORBASE Oil Sprayer comes in a convenient 2-pack, offering double the value without compromising on quality. As a primary manufacturer of oil sprayers, NORBASE delivers a food-safe product expertly crafted from top-quality 304 stainless steel and BPA-free 100ml graduated glass bottles. Each full spray dispenses about 1 gram of cooking oil, helping you precisely control daily calorie intake. These portable and convenient oil misters are ultimate kitchen tools, making various cooking methods from frying and grilling to air frying easier than ever before. The pack also includes a funnel and cleaning brush for added convenience.
- Key Features:
- Primary Manufacturer of Oil Sprayer: No middlemen, double value.
- Food Safe Oil Spray Bottle: 304 stainless steel, BPA free 100ml graduated glass, funnel & cleaning brush included.
- Easy to Use: One full spray dispenses about 1 gram.
- Portable and Convenient: 100ml capacity, sleek design for on-the-go.
- Multipurpose Olive Oil Sprayer: Works with various oils, cooking wine, water; great for multiple cooking methods.
- Pros:
- Two sprayers for the price of one, great value.
- Made with high-quality, food-safe materials (stainless steel, glass).
- Precise 1g per spray for calorie control.
- Includes useful accessories (funnel, brush).
- Compact and portable for versatile use.
- Cons:
- 100ml capacity means more frequent refilling.
- Requires manual pumping action.
- User Impressions: Customers love the value of the 2-pack and the overall quality of these sprayers. They find them easy to use and clean, appreciating the fine mist for air frying and the ability to control oil portions. The included funnel and brush are frequently cited as thoughtful additions.
- See it on Amazon here
NIKKIER Oil Sprayer for Cooking,100ml Olive Oil…
The NIKKIER Oil Sprayer features an upgraded nozzle designed for improved stability and a superior spray dispersion effect, ensuring your cooking oil is atomized uniformly. Composed of high-quality 304 stainless steel and food-grade glass, it’s a healthy and safe choice for edible oils. The double transparent design allows for real-time monitoring of fuel consumption, promoting hygienic oil use. Its novel spray button design makes it small, easy to carry, and a practical gadget for frying steak, salads, barbecues, and, of course, your air fryer. A helpful tip is provided to achieve the best spray effect by first priming with water.
- Key Features:
- Easy to useUpgraded version: Improved nozzle for better spray dispersion and stability.
- Healthy sprayer: High-quality 304 stainless steel and food grade glass bottle.
- Easy to use: Novel spray button design, small and easy to carry.
- Wide Application: For frying steak, salad, barbecue, air frying pan, etc.
- How to use: Tip for best spray effect by priming with water.
- Pros:
- Upgraded nozzle ensures a very fine and even mist.
- Made from healthy, food-grade materials.
- Transparent design helps monitor oil levels.
- Compact and portable for various uses.
- Versatile for different cooking applications.
- Cons:
- Smaller 100ml capacity needs regular refilling.
- Requires a priming step for optimal performance.
- User Impressions: Users frequently highlight the effectiveness of the upgraded nozzle, praising the consistent fine mist it produces, which is ideal for achieving even coverage in air fryers. The sturdy build and ease of use are also commonly mentioned, making it a reliable and convenient kitchen tool.
- See it on Amazon here
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Air Fryer Cooking Sprays
Q1: Why can’t I use regular aerosol cooking sprays like Crisco or generic PAM in my air fryer?
A: Many standard aerosol cooking sprays contain propellants and ingredients like soy lecithin or dimethyl silicone. These can build up on your air fryer’s non-stick coating over time, creating a sticky residue that is very difficult to remove and can ruin the non-stick properties of your basket. It can also affect the taste of your food.
Q2: What kind of oil is best for air frying if I’m using a reusable sprayer?
A: When using a reusable oil sprayer, opt for oils with a high smoke point, as air fryers cook at high temperatures. Great choices include avocado oil (smoke point ~520°F), grapeseed oil (smoke point ~420°F), refined olive oil (smoke point ~400°F – note: extra virgin olive oil has a lower smoke point), and canola oil (smoke point ~400°F).
Q3: How much oil should I use when air frying?
A: Air fryers are designed to use very little oil. A light, even coating is usually sufficient. For most recipes, 1-2 teaspoons of oil, evenly distributed with a good spray, is plenty. The goal is to lightly coat the food to help it crisp up, not drench it.
Q4: Are reusable oil sprayers worth the investment for an air fryer?
A: Absolutely! Reusable oil sprayers (or “oil misters”) are often considered the best cooking spray for air fryer users because they allow you to use your preferred high-quality, pure oils without problematic additives. They are also more eco-friendly, cost-effective in the long run, and give you precise control over the amount and type of oil you’re using.
Q5: How do I clean my reusable oil sprayer to keep it working well?
A: For best performance, regularly clean your oil sprayer. Fill it with warm, soapy water, pump and spray it a few times to flush out any oil residue, then rinse thoroughly with clean water and spray until clear. Allow it to air dry completely before refilling with oil. Some parts may also be dishwasher safe, check the manufacturer’s instructions.
Q6: Can I use olive oil in my air fryer?
A: Yes, you can, but it’s best to use refined olive oil (sometimes labeled as “pure” or “light” olive oil) which has a higher smoke point (around 400°F). Extra virgin olive oil has a lower smoke point (around 375°F) and can start smoking and impart a bitter taste at typical air frying temperatures. For air frying, a dedicated olive oil cooking spray or a reusable sprayer filled with refined olive oil is ideal.
Q7: What is a “smoke point” and why is it important for air frying?
A: The smoke point of an oil is the temperature at which it starts to smoke and break down, producing harmful free radicals and an unpleasant burnt taste. Since air fryers cook at high temperatures, using an oil with a high smoke point ensures your oil doesn’t burn, keeping your food tasting good and your kitchen smoke-free.
Choosing the best cooking spray for air fryer doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you prefer the convenience of a purpose-built aerosol or the control of a reusable oil mister, there’s a fantastic option out there to help you achieve perfectly crispy, delicious, and healthy air-fried meals every time. Happy air frying!