Can You Put Paper Towels in the Air Fryer Find Out Now

No, you should never put paper towels in the air fryer—they can catch fire, melt, or release harmful chemicals due to the high heat and rapid air circulation. Instead, use air fryer-safe liners or parchment paper with holes to keep your basket clean without risking damage or safety hazards.

Key Takeaways

• Never use regular paper towels: They can catch fire or release harmful chemicals in air fryers.
• Opt for parchment paper: It’s safe, heat-resistant, and prevents sticking without risks.
• Check for air fryer-safe liners: Use perforated parchment or silicone mats designed for air fryers.
• Place liners correctly: Ensure they don’t block airflow to maintain even cooking.
• Monitor high-fat foods: Use liners to catch drips but avoid direct contact with heating elements.
• Clean regularly: Residue buildup can cause smoke or odors—wipe down after each use.

Can You Put Paper Towels in the Air Fryer? Find Out Now

Air fryers have revolutionized modern cooking, offering a healthier, faster, and more convenient way to enjoy crispy, delicious meals without the guilt of deep frying. From golden french fries to juicy chicken wings, these compact kitchen appliances use rapid air circulation to create that perfect crunch. But as air fryer popularity soars, so do the questions about what can—and cannot—be safely used inside them. One of the most common queries from both new and experienced users is: Can you put paper towels in the air fryer?

At first glance, it seems like a harmless idea. After all, paper towels are a staple in most kitchens for absorbing grease, catching spills, and keeping food from sticking. But when it comes to high-heat appliances like air fryers, the answer isn’t always straightforward. Safety, performance, and food quality all come into play. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore whether paper towels are safe to use in air fryers, the risks involved, safer alternatives, and practical tips to help you get the most out of your appliance. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or a culinary enthusiast, understanding the dos and don’ts of air fryer use can save you from kitchen disasters—and help you cook smarter.

Why the Question Matters: Understanding Air Fryer Mechanics

How Air Fryers Work

To understand whether paper towels belong in your air fryer, it’s essential to grasp how these appliances function. Unlike traditional ovens or microwaves, air fryers use a rapid air circulation system powered by a high-speed fan and a heating element. This system circulates hot air (typically between 175°F and 400°F) around food, creating a Maillard reaction that results in a crispy, golden exterior—similar to deep frying, but with up to 80% less oil.

The basket design is critical here: it allows hot air to flow freely around the food from all sides. Any obstruction—like a thick layer of paper towel—can disrupt this airflow, leading to uneven cooking, longer cook times, or even undercooked food. Additionally, the high temperatures involved (often exceeding 350°F) create an environment where flammable materials, such as paper, can pose a fire hazard.

The Role of Airflow in Cooking Performance

Airflow isn’t just a feature—it’s the core mechanism of air frying. When you place food in the basket, the hot air needs to circulate unimpeded to ensure even browning and crispiness. If you lay a paper towel at the bottom of the basket to catch drippings, you’re essentially creating a barrier. This barrier can:

• Block hot air from reaching the bottom layer of food
• Cause steam buildup, leading to soggy results
• Increase the risk of the paper towel shifting or flying up into the heating element

For example, imagine cooking marinated chicken thighs. The excess marinade will drip down, and while you might be tempted to line the basket with paper towels to catch it, doing so could trap moisture, steam the chicken instead of air-frying it, and ruin the texture. The result? A dish that’s greasy, undercooked, and far from the crispy perfection air fryers promise.

The Risks of Using Paper Towels in Air Fryers

Fire Hazard: The Most Serious Danger

The single biggest risk of putting paper towels in an air fryer is fire. Most standard paper towels are made from wood pulp and are highly flammable. When exposed to temperatures above 451°F (the flash point of paper), they can ignite. While air fryers typically operate below this threshold, several factors can push them into dangerous territory:

• Hot spots: The heating element can reach over 500°F during operation.
• Paper movement: As air circulates, lightweight paper towels can be lifted and come into direct contact with the heating coil.
• Oil-soaked paper: Grease or oil from food can make paper towels more flammable. A paper towel soaked in cooking oil can ignite at lower temperatures.

There are documented cases of air fryer fires caused by paper towels. In 2022, a consumer safety report from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) cited several incidents where paper products (including towels and parchment paper) were improperly used, leading to smoke, fire, and even minor property damage. One user reported that a paper towel caught fire within 3 minutes of starting a batch of bacon at 375°F.

Smoke and Odor Issues

Even if the paper towel doesn’t burst into flames, it can still burn partially, producing thick, acrid smoke. This smoke:

• Can set off smoke alarms
• Leaves a persistent burnt smell in your kitchen and appliance
• May contaminate the flavor of your food

For instance, if you’re cooking fish and the paper towel chars, you might end up with a dish that tastes smoky and unpleasant—defeating the purpose of a clean, efficient air fryer experience.

Impact on Cooking Results

Beyond safety, paper towels can negatively affect the quality of your food. Because they absorb moisture, they can:

• Prevent food from achieving a crispy texture
• Cause uneven browning due to airflow obstruction
• Stick to food (especially if damp or oily), making cleanup harder

A common mistake is using paper towels to “dry” chicken skin before air frying. While this might seem like a good idea to reduce splatter, it can actually lead to steaming instead of crisping. The better method? Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel before placing it in the basket—but never leave the towel inside.

Safe Alternatives to Paper Towels in Air Fryers

Air Fryer-Safe Liners and Mats

The good news is that there are safe, effective alternatives to paper towels designed specifically for air fryers. These products are made from heat-resistant, non-flammable materials that allow airflow while catching drips.

• Silicone liners: Reusable, non-stick, and heat-safe up to 450°F. They come in basket shapes that fit snugly and have perforations for airflow. Example: Air Fryer Silicone Liners (10-pack) on Amazon.
• Perforated parchment paper: Unlike regular parchment, these are pre-cut with holes to allow air circulation. Brands like If You Care offer air fryer-safe versions.
• Reusable mesh mats: Made from food-grade stainless steel or fiberglass mesh, these catch drips without blocking airflow.

Pro tip: Always check the maximum temperature rating of any liner. Avoid any product that says “not for use above 350°F” if you plan to cook at higher temps.

Proper Food Preparation Techniques

Instead of relying on paper towels during cooking, use them during prep. Here’s how:

• Dry proteins: Pat chicken, fish, or tofu dry with paper towels before seasoning and placing in the air fryer. This removes excess moisture for better browning.
• Remove excess oil: After marinating, gently blot food to reduce splatter—but discard the towel immediately.
• Preheat the basket: A preheated basket reduces the chance of food sticking, eliminating the need for makeshift liners.

For example, when air frying salmon, pat the fillets dry with a paper towel, brush with a light oil, and season. Then place directly in the basket—no liner needed. The result? Crispy skin and flaky interior, with minimal cleanup.

Cleaning and Maintenance Tips

To avoid the temptation of using paper towels for cleanup, make air fryer maintenance part of your routine:

• Clean the basket after every use with warm, soapy water.
• For stubborn residue, soak the basket for 10–15 minutes.
• Use a soft sponge or brush—avoid steel wool, which can damage non-stick coatings.
• For quick wipe-downs, use a damp microfiber cloth instead of paper towels.

Bonus: Many air fryer baskets are dishwasher-safe. Just check your model’s manual to confirm.

When Paper Towels Might (Almost) Be Acceptable

Short-Term Use During Preheating

There is one narrow scenario where paper towels might be used—briefly and with extreme caution: during preheating to catch initial drips. However, this is not recommended by manufacturers and should only be considered if:

• You’re cooking very greasy food (e.g., bacon or sausages)
• The paper towel is lightly placed—not tucked or secured
• You remove it immediately after preheating (within 1–2 minutes)
• You monitor the air fryer constantly

Even then, the risk outweighs the benefit. A safer option? Use a small amount of oil in the basket (1 tsp) to reduce splatter without blocking airflow.

Using Paper Towels for Drying (Not Cooking)

Paper towels are excellent for pre-cooking prep:

• Dry brussels sprouts before roasting for extra crispiness
• Blot excess moisture from frozen foods (e.g., frozen fries) to prevent steaming
• Remove oil from the surface of cooked food after air frying

Example: After air frying chicken tenders, place them on a paper towel-lined plate for 1 minute to absorb surface oil. This keeps them crispy and reduces greasiness—without any risk to your appliance.

Special Cases: Commercial vs. Home Use

Some commercial kitchens use heavy-duty, heat-resistant paper liners in high-volume air fryers. These are not household paper towels—they’re industrial-grade, often silicone-coated, and designed to withstand extreme temperatures. Never substitute regular paper towels for these. They’re a different product altogether, tested and approved for commercial use.

Expert Recommendations and Best Practices

What Manufacturers Say

Major air fryer brands like Philips, Ninja, Instant Pot, and Cosori all explicitly warn against using paper towels in their user manuals and safety guides. For example:

• Philips: “Do not use paper, cardboard, or any other flammable materials in the airfryer.”
• Ninja: “Never place paper towels, aluminum foil, or parchment paper in the basket during cooking.”
• Instant Pot: “Avoid using paper products that can catch fire or block airflow.”

These warnings aren’t just legal disclaimers—they’re based on real-world testing and safety protocols. Ignoring them voids warranties and increases liability in case of accidents.

Best Practices for Air Fryer Safety

To maximize safety and performance, follow these expert-backed tips:

• Never leave the air fryer unattended when cooking, especially with high-fat foods.
• Use only air fryer-approved accessories (liners, trays, racks).
• Keep the appliance at least 6 inches from walls and flammable objects.
• Regularly check for grease buildup in the heating element (clean every 1–2 weeks).
• Use a splatter guard (available for most models) instead of makeshift barriers.

Data Table: Air Fryer Safety Comparison

Material	Max Safe Temp	Airflow-Friendly?	Fire Risk	Recommended?
Standard Paper Towels	451°F (flash point)	No (blocks airflow)	High	❌ Never
Silicone Liners	450–500°F	Yes (perforated)	None	✅ Yes
Perforated Parchment	425°F	Yes (if perforated)	Low (if dry)	✅ Yes (check brand)
Aluminum Foil	500°F+	No (blocks airflow)	Medium (if crumpled near element)	❌ Not recommended
Stainless Steel Mesh	600°F+	Yes	None	✅ Yes

Conclusion: The Bottom Line on Paper Towels and Air Fryers

So, can you put paper towels in the air fryer? The definitive answer is: No—not during cooking. The risks of fire, smoke, and poor cooking performance far outweigh any perceived convenience. While it might seem like a quick fix to catch drips or prevent sticking, the consequences can be serious, ranging from ruined meals to actual kitchen fires.

Instead, embrace safer, more effective strategies: use air fryer-specific liners made from silicone or perforated parchment, practice proper food prep (drying proteins before cooking), and maintain your appliance with regular cleaning. These habits not only protect your air fryer but also enhance your cooking results—giving you crispier, tastier, and healthier meals every time.

Remember, the air fryer is a powerful tool, but it works best when used as intended. By respecting its mechanics and following manufacturer guidelines, you can enjoy all the benefits of air frying without the risks. So the next time you’re tempted to toss a paper towel into the basket, stop, think, and reach for a safer alternative. Your kitchen—and your taste buds—will thank you.

Now that you know the truth, spread the word. Share this guide with fellow air fryer enthusiasts, and help create a community of safe, smart cooks. After all, the best kitchen is one where innovation meets safety—and every meal is a success.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you put paper towels in the air fryer safely?

No, you should never place paper towels directly in the air fryer during cooking. The high heat and airflow can cause them to catch fire or blow into the heating element, creating a safety hazard.

Why do people ask if they can use paper towels in air fryers?

Many want to absorb excess oil or prevent mess when cooking greasy foods like bacon. However, paper towels aren’t designed for air fryer temperatures and can pose risks instead of helping.

What happens if you put a paper towel in an air fryer?

If you put a paper towel in an air fryer, it may ignite from direct contact with the heating element or get sucked into the fan. Even if it doesn’t catch fire, it can leave behind lint and debris, affecting performance.

Are there safe alternatives to paper towels for air fryers?

Yes, use air fryer-safe accessories like silicone liners, parchment paper with holes (designed for air fryers), or reusable silicone mats. These options prevent sticking and absorb oil without fire risks.

Can you put paper towels in the air fryer basket to soak up oil?

No, even placing paper towels under food to soak oil is unsafe. The basket’s intense heat and circulating air can ignite the towel. Opt for perforated parchment paper or elevate food with a trivet instead.

Is it okay to use paper towels in the air fryer after cooking?

Yes, you can use paper towels to wipe down the basket or tray once the air fryer has fully cooled. Just avoid using them during or immediately after cooking when parts are still hot.