We all love our air fryers, right? They’re kitchen superheroes, churning out crispy fries, juicy chicken, and perfectly roasted veggies with less oil. But let’s be real – after countless culinary adventures, they can get pretty greasy. Baked-on food residue and stubborn oil splatters aren’t just an eyesore; they can affect performance and even create unpleasant smells. That’s where finding the best grease cleaner for air fryer comes into play.
Cleaning your air fryer properly is key to keeping it running efficiently, prolonging its life, and ensuring your food tastes as good as it should. Regular maintenance prevents grease build-up that could otherwise become a fire hazard or simply make your appliance less effective. But with so many options out there, how do you pick the right one? Don’t sweat it! We’ve done the hard work for you, sifting through top products to help you find the perfect degreaser for air fryer cleaning.
Why Your Air Fryer Deserves a Deep Clean
Beyond the obvious aesthetic reasons, a clean air fryer is a happy air fryer!
* Better Food Taste: Old grease can make your food taste stale or even burnt.
* Improved Efficiency: Excessive grease on heating elements can reduce efficiency and airflow.
* Extended Lifespan: Regular cleaning prevents corrosion and damage to internal components.
* Hygiene & Safety: Eliminating food particles and grease reduces the risk of bacterial growth and potential flare-ups.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Air Fryer Grease Cleaner
When you’re on the hunt for the best grease cleaner for air fryer applications, keep these points in mind:
- Formula Type: Sprays, foams, or brush kits each offer different application methods. Sprays are great for general coverage, while foams cling better to vertical surfaces. Brush kits are essential for physical scrubbing.
- Fume-Free vs. Heavy Duty: Some cleaners are designed to be fume-free for indoor use, while others are heavy-duty and might require ventilation. Choose based on your comfort and cleaning needs.
- Versatility: Can it be used on other kitchen appliances like ovens, microwaves, or grills? This can save you money and cabinet space.
- Safety: Look for biodegradable ingredients or natural formulas if you’re concerned about harsh chemicals.
- Ease of Use: How long does it need to sit? Does it require extensive scrubbing?
Our Top Picks: Best Grease Cleaner for Air Fryer Reviews
Ready to banish that baked-on gunk? Here are our top 10 choices for the best grease cleaner for air fryer units, ensuring your trusty kitchen gadget stays sparkling clean and ready for its next delicious task.
1. Zep Fume Free Air Fryer & Oven Cleaner, R49312-24 fl…
This Zep cleaner is a fantastic choice for anyone who dreads strong chemical smells during cleaning. Its fume-free formula means you can tackle that stubborn baked-on grease and food residue in your air fryer or oven without having to open every window in the house. It’s designed for powerful performance, breaking down tough grime on contact, which means less elbow grease for you! It’s a go-to for making those tough cleaning jobs feel like a breeze.
- FUME-FREE FORMULA: Professional-strength cleaner without harsh fumes.
- VERSATILE CLEANING: Effectively removes baked-on grease, grime, and food residue from air fryers, ovens, and cooking surfaces.
- EASY APPLICATION: Convenient spray bottle design allows precise application and complete coverage.
- POWERFUL PERFORMANCE: Breaks down tough grease on contact for hassle-free cleaning.
- BIODEGRADABLE INGREDIENTS: Contains biodegradable components in a 24 fl oz bottle.
Pros:
– Safe for indoor use due to fume-free nature.
– Highly effective on baked-on grease.
– Easy to spray and cover surfaces.
– Good for multiple cleaning applications.
Cons:
– May still require some waiting time for tough stains.
– Best for general grease and grime, not specific carbon deposits.
User Impressions: Users consistently praise its ease of use and the fact that it truly delivers on its fume-free promise, making indoor cleaning less of a chore. Many appreciate its effectiveness on various kitchen surfaces, not just air fryers, making it a versatile household staple.
2. CLEANING HEROES Oven and Grill Cleaner, 32 Fl Oz -…
If you’re looking for a cleaner that blasts away grease in minutes, the CLEANING HEROES Oven and Grill Cleaner is your champion. This powerful solution is engineered to dissolve tough fat residues with minimal effort, transforming your greasy air fryer, oven, or grill into sparkling clean appliances. It’s especially great for those really challenging deep cleans, where you want to apply, wait, and wipe, rather than scrub endlessly.
- Blast Away Grease in Minutes: Tough grease and fat residues dissolve quickly.
- Ultimate Kitchen Appliance Cleaner: Perfect for ovens, stoves, hoods, grills, deep fryers, burners, grates, and air fryers.
- Powerful BBQ Cleaner and Degreaser: Eliminates hard scrubbing; apply, wait 15 minutes, and wipe.
- Easy-to-Use Grill Cleaner Spray: Simple squirt or brush application, rinse with water.
- Say Goodbye to Grease and Fat: Ideal for all kitchen appliances, ensuring deep and thorough cleaning.
Pros:
– Extremely powerful and fast-acting on tough grease.
– Highly versatile for a wide range of kitchen appliances.
– Reduces scrubbing significantly, saving time and effort.
– Comes in a generous 32 Fl Oz size.
Cons:
– May have stronger fumes given its heavy-duty nature, so good ventilation is recommended.
– Requires 15 minutes of dwell time for best results.
User Impressions: Customers are often amazed by how quickly this cleaner works, turning a dreaded cleaning task into a surprisingly easy one. Its ability to tackle long-standing, stubborn grease on multiple appliances makes it a favorite among those seeking a truly powerful solution.
3. Easy Off Heavy Duty Oven Cleaner, Destroys Tough Burnt on…
Easy Off is a name synonymous with heavy-duty cleaning, and their Oven Cleaner lives up to that reputation. This product is specifically formulated to penetrate and break down tough, burned-on grease and food in as little as three minutes. While it’s a classic for ovens, its powerful action makes it a surprisingly effective choice for seriously neglected air fryer baskets and components, though always test a small area first.
- HEAVY DUTY OVEN CLEANER: Specially formulated to penetrate tough, burned-on grease and food in as little as 3 minutes.
- MULTIPURPOSE: Use to clean ovens, oven doors, barbecue grills, broilers, broiler pans, and stainless-steel surfaces.
- FOR OCCASIONAL DEEP CLEANING: Great for occasional deep cleaning or everyday tough spot cleanings. Use on warm or cold surfaces.
- EASY TO USE: Just spray on the stain, wait, and wipe.
Pros:
– Extremely fast-acting on tough, burnt-on residue.
– Versatile for various heavily soiled kitchen surfaces.
– Can be used on both warm or cold surfaces.
– Simple spray-wait-wipe application.
Cons:
– Not specifically designed for air fryers, so use with caution and follow instructions carefully.
– Might have strong fumes requiring good ventilation.
– Can be very potent, so protective gloves are recommended.
User Impressions: Users rely on Easy Off for its undeniable power against the most challenging baked-on grime. While it requires care due to its potent formula, the results on deeply soiled surfaces are often described as nothing short of miraculous, making it a go-to for serious deep cleans.
4. MEMBER´S MARK Oven, Grill and Fryer Cleaner (32 oz, 3…
This Member’s Mark product offers excellent value, coming in a convenient 3-pack of 32 oz bottles. While the features provided are minimal, the sheer volume suggests it’s designed for regular, heavy-duty use in commercial or very busy home kitchens. It’s a practical choice for those who need a consistent supply of powerful cleaner for their oven, grill, and yes, even the heavily used air fryer.
- Evaxo Oven, Grill and Fryer Cleaner (32 oz, 3 pk.)
Pros:
– Excellent value with a 3-pack of large bottles.
– Designed for ovens, grills, and fryers, indicating strong grease-fighting capabilities.
– Suitable for frequent use in busy environments.
Cons:
– Specific features and performance details are not explicitly listed.
– May be a more generic formula, potentially requiring more effort for extremely stubborn spots.
User Impressions: While detailed feedback is not available for this specific listing, multi-pack cleaners like this are generally appreciated by users who go through cleaning products quickly or manage multiple greasy appliances. The assumed commercial-grade strength often means effective degreasing.
5. Zep Home Pro Air Fryer & Microwave Cleaner, R49306-24 oz,…
Another fantastic offering from Zep, this Home Pro cleaner is specifically formulated with air fryers and microwaves in mind, alongside conventional ovens. It boasts a fume-free formula, which is a huge plus for those who prioritize indoor air quality. This cleaner is perfect for daily maintenance or regular deeper cleans, ensuring your air fryer stays in top shape without the overpowering chemical smells.
- VERSATILE CLEANING: Specially formulated for air fryers, microwaves, and conventional ovens to remove tough baked-on grease and food residue.
- FUME-FREE FORMULA: Advanced cleaning solution works effectively without producing harsh or unpleasant fumes.
- EASY APPLICATION: Convenient trigger spray bottle allows precise application and coverage.
- DAILY USE SAFE: Professional-grade formula suitable for regular cleaning and maintenance.
- BIODEGRADABLE: Features an innovative biodegradable formula.
Pros:
– Explicitly designed for air fryers, ensuring compatibility.
– Fume-free, safe for use in enclosed spaces.
– Great for both routine cleaning and tackling stubborn residue.
– Biodegradable, a good option for environmentally conscious users.
Cons:
– Might not be as aggressive on extremely carbonized, long-standing grease as some heavy-duty alternatives.
– A 24 oz bottle might be used up faster with frequent cleaning.
User Impressions: Reviewers love the peace of mind that comes with a fume-free cleaner, especially when using it frequently in the kitchen. Its effectiveness on daily grease and light baked-on stains in air fryers and microwaves makes it a popular choice for regular appliance upkeep.
6. XANGNIER Air Fryer Cleaner Brush Kits,6 Pcs Air Fryer…
Sometimes, liquid cleaners aren’t enough, or you need to reach tricky spots. That’s where the XANGNIER Air Fryer Cleaner Brush Kit comes in. This comprehensive 6-piece set is specifically designed to get into every nook and cranny of your air fryer, from the heating element to tiny crevices. It’s the ideal companion to your degreaser spray, ensuring a truly thorough, physical clean, making your air fryer look and feel brand new.
- Air Fryer Cleaning Solution: Comprehensive kit for deep cleaning air fryers.
- Efficient and Time Saving: Complete set of tools eliminates the need for searching for different sizes.
- Comprehensive Deep Cleaning without Dead Ends: Different brush sizes for all areas, including crevices and heating elements.
- Extend the Life of Your Air Fryer: Helps effectively remove dirt and maintain optimal condition.
- Easy to Operate: Ergonomically designed brushes for easy handling and effective cleaning.
- Package Includes: 1 long-handled nylon brush, 1 double-sided sponge brush, 1 nylon toothbrush, 1 cleaning cloth, 2 small crevice cleaning brushes.
Pros:
– Provides specialized tools for a truly deep clean of all air fryer parts.
– Essential for cleaning hard-to-reach areas like the heating element.
– Helps extend the lifespan of your appliance by ensuring thorough dirt removal.
– Ergonomic design makes the cleaning process easier.
Cons:
– Not a chemical cleaner itself; it requires a degreaser to work effectively on grease.
– Still requires manual scrubbing effort.
– Small brushes can be easy to misplace if not stored together.
User Impressions: Users find this kit invaluable for getting rid of the invisible grime that chemical sprays alone can’t tackle. The variety of brushes is a major hit, allowing them to thoroughly clean every component and dramatically improve their air fryer’s cleanliness and performance.
7. Qeuxv Degreaser Cleaner Heavy Duty, 2 in 1 Foam and…
The Qeuxv Degreaser Cleaner is a versatile powerhouse, offering both foam and spray modes in one bottle. The foam mode is perfect for clinging to large, stubborn grease stains, while the fine mist spray targets edges and tile gaps. What’s more, it features a natural orange oil formula, ensuring safety and leaving behind a fresh, pleasant scent. This heavy-duty degreaser is a game-changer for tackling carbonized grill grease, and it’s equally effective on your air fryer.
- 2 in 1 Foam & Spray Multifunctional: Switches between foam (for large stains) and spray (for fine mist).
- Stubborn Grease Stain Remover: Penetrates and breaks down carbonized grill grease and other tough stains.
- Natural & Safe & Harmless: Neutral formula from natural orange oil, no harsh chemicals, formaldehyde-free, non-corrosive.
- Fresh Orange Scent: Leaves behind a pleasant scent, quickly dissipating cooking odors.
- Wide Application: Safe for stove tops, grills, microwaves, cooktops, air fryers, and plastic kitchen shelves.
Pros:
– Dual application mode (foam/spray) for different needs.
– Highly effective on carbonized and stubborn grease.
– Natural, safe, and non-corrosive formula.
– Leaves a fresh, pleasant orange scent.
– Extremely versatile for multiple kitchen surfaces.
Cons:
– While natural, always perform a patch test on delicate surfaces.
– Foam mode might require more product for wide coverage.
User Impressions: Customers rave about the natural orange scent and the cleaner’s impressive ability to cut through incredibly tough grease without harsh chemical smells. The foam/spray versatility is a huge hit, allowing for precise application depending on the mess, making it a highly recommended kitchen staple.
8. AcenWa Natural Multi-Surface Cleaner is an unscented spray…
For those prioritizing natural cleaning solutions, the AcenWa Natural Multi-Surface Cleaner is an excellent choice. This unscented spray uses ionized alkaline water and food-grade sodium sesquicarbonate to powerfully battle grease, dirt, and odors without harsh chemicals or toxic residues. It’s incredibly versatile, safe for everything from kitchenware and air fryers to baby bottles and pet cages, offering a truly clean and safe home environment.
- LEAVE YOUR HOME CLEAN AND SAFE! From kitchen to bathroom to floor, this cleaner does it all.
- POWERFUL CLEANER! Made in the USA. Removes blood stains, grease, grime, and odors. Perfect for cleaning stoves, air fryers, microwaves, countertops, tables, and dishes.
- MAKE YOUR BATHROOM CLEAN, LIKE NEW, AND ODOR-FREE! Fast-acting on bathtubs, tiles, basins, toilets, and floors.
- NO HARSH CHEMCIALS, NO TOXIC RESIDUES! No preservatives. Safe for baby’s bottles, toys, high chairs, pets cages and toys.
- EFFECTIVE IN REMOVING FARM CHEMICAL RESIDUES! From vegetables, fruits, and meat products.
- Easy to use: Spray, scrub, and wipe.
Pros:
– All-natural, unscented, and free from harsh chemicals or toxic residues.
– Extremely versatile for almost every surface in the home, including food contact areas.
– Safe for use around children and pets.
– Effective on grease, grime, and odors.
Cons:
– May require more scrubbing effort for very heavy, baked-on grease compared to chemical degreasers.
– Unscented nature might not appeal to those who prefer a “clean” smell.
User Impressions: Users deeply appreciate the peace of mind that comes with using a truly non-toxic cleaner that’s safe for their families and pets. They find it surprisingly effective for general kitchen grease and appreciate its versatility, even if it might take a bit more manual effort on the toughest, long-standing stains.
9. Zep Home Pro Fume-Free Oven, Air Fryer, & Microwave…
Yet another strong contender from Zep Home Pro, this fume-free cleaner is specifically formulated to tackle tough baked-on grease, grime, and food residue across ovens, air fryers, and microwaves. Its professional-grade power is balanced with biodegradable surfactants, making it ideal for home use without compromising on cleaning performance. It’s a fantastic option for both everyday spot-cleaning and those routine deep-cleanings, ensuring your air fryer stays pristine without the unpleasant fumes.
- TACKLES GREASE: Professionally formulated to eliminate tough baked-on grease, grime, and food residue.
- CONTAINS BIODEGRADABLE SURFACTANTS: Ideal for home use while remaining tough on grease.
- FUME-FREE VERSATILE FORMULA: Great for everyday spot-cleaning and routine deep-cleanings.
- EASY TO USE: Just spray, let sit, and then wipe.
Pros:
– Fume-free, ensuring comfortable indoor use.
– Specifically targets common air fryer messes like baked-on grease.
– Biodegradable ingredients make it a more eco-friendly choice.
– Versatile for multiple kitchen appliances.
Cons:
– For extremely thick or carbonized grease, a longer dwell time might be needed.
– Might require a bit more effort than the most aggressive heavy-duty chemical cleaners.
User Impressions: Customers love this Zep cleaner for its reliable performance on everyday air fryer grease and its complete lack of harsh fumes. Many find it to be their preferred choice for maintaining cleanliness without the need for extensive ventilation, making regular upkeep much easier.
10. Member’s Mark Commercial Oven, Grill and Fryer Cleaner, 32…
This Member’s Mark Commercial cleaner is designed for serious cleaning challenges. In a generous 32 oz bottle, it’s formulated to remove not just baked-on food and grease but also stubborn carbon deposits, which are often the hardest to get rid of in air fryers and ovens. If you’ve got a heavily used air fryer with significant carbonized residue, this commercial-grade product is built to handle it, delivering powerful results for a truly deep clean.
- Removes baked-on food and grease.
- Removes carbon deposits.
Pros:
– Commercial-grade strength, highly effective on tough build-up.
– Specifically targets carbon deposits, a common air fryer issue.
– Large 32 oz bottle provides ample supply.
Cons:
– As a commercial-grade product, it likely has stronger chemicals and fumes, requiring good ventilation.
– Might be too potent for light, daily cleaning.
– Specific application instructions (e.g., dwell time) are not detailed here.
User Impressions: Users who face very challenging, long-standing grease and carbon build-up often turn to commercial-grade solutions like this one. They appreciate its robust power to break down grime that other cleaners can’t touch, though they are mindful of proper ventilation and protective gear during use.
How to Effectively Clean Your Air Fryer (Beyond Just Grease Cleaners)
While the right cleaner is half the battle, proper technique makes all the difference:
- Unplug and Cool Down: Always ensure your air fryer is unplugged and completely cool before cleaning.
- Disassemble: Remove the basket, crisper plate, and any other removable parts.
- Soak (Optional): For stubborn baked-on grease, a quick soak in warm, soapy water can loosen grime before applying the degreaser.
- Apply Cleaner: Spray or apply your chosen best grease cleaner for air fryer onto the greasy surfaces. Follow the product’s dwell time instructions.
- Scrub Gently: Use a soft sponge, non-abrasive brush (like those in the XANGNIER kit), or microfiber cloth. Avoid harsh scourers that can scratch non-stick coatings.
- Wipe and Rinse: Wipe away the cleaner and grease with a damp cloth. For removable parts, you can rinse them under water. Ensure no chemical residue remains.
- Clean the Interior: For the main unit, wipe down the interior and heating element gently with a damp cloth after any cleaner application. A brush kit is invaluable here.
- Dry Thoroughly: Ensure all parts are completely dry before reassembling and using your air fryer.
FAQ Section
Q1: How often should I clean my air fryer?
A: Ideally, you should wipe down the basket and drawer after every use. A deeper clean with a degreaser should be done every 5-10 uses, or more frequently if you cook greasy foods often.
Q2: Can I put air fryer parts in the dishwasher?
A: Many air fryer baskets and crisper plates are dishwasher-safe, but always check your specific air fryer’s manual first. Even if dishwasher-safe, hand washing with a degreaser can be more effective for baked-on grease.
Q3: Are chemical air fryer cleaners safe for food contact surfaces?
A: Most heavy-duty degreasers are not food-grade. Always rinse surfaces thoroughly with water and wipe dry after using chemical cleaners to ensure no residue remains that could transfer to food. Look for natural or food-safe options if this is a major concern.
Q4: What’s the best way to clean the air fryer heating element?
A: Unplug and ensure the unit is cool. Turn the air fryer upside down. Use a soft, damp cloth or a specialized brush (like those in the XANGNIER kit) to gently wipe away any grease or food debris from the heating coil. Avoid using excessive water or spraying cleaners directly onto the heating element, as this could damage it.
Q5: Can I use regular dish soap to clean my air fryer?
A: For light grease and daily cleaning, dish soap is fine. However, for tough, baked-on grease or carbon deposits, a dedicated grease cleaner or degreaser will be far more effective at breaking down the grime.
Q6: What if my air fryer still smells after cleaning?
A: Lingering smells usually mean there’s still hidden grease. Try a deeper clean, paying close attention to the heating element and any hard-to-reach crevices. You can also try placing a bowl of lemon slices or white vinegar in the air fryer and running it for 10-15 minutes (without food) to help absorb odors.
Q7: Is a fume-free cleaner less effective than a heavy-duty one?
A: Not necessarily. Fume-free cleaners have advanced formulas that achieve powerful degreasing without harsh volatile organic compounds. While some older “heavy-duty” cleaners might rely on stronger chemicals with fumes, many modern fume-free options are just as effective, especially with proper dwell time.
Final Thoughts
Keeping your air fryer clean is essential for delicious, healthy meals and extending the life of your appliance. Whether you prefer the gentle touch of a fume-free solution, the raw power of a heavy-duty degreaser, or the precision of a brush kit, there’s a best grease cleaner for air fryer out there for every need. Choose wisely, clean regularly, and keep those crispy creations coming!