Can You Use Paper Towels in an Air Fryer Safely

No, you should never use paper towels in an air fryer—they can catch fire, melt, or release harmful chemicals due to high heat and rapid air circulation. Instead, use air fryer-safe alternatives like parchment paper with holes or silicone liners to ensure safety and optimal cooking performance.

Key Takeaways

• Never use regular paper towels: They can catch fire or release harmful chemicals.
• Choose parchment paper instead: It’s safe, non-stick, and heat-resistant for air frying.
• Pre-cut liners save time: Use perforated parchment liners designed for air fryer baskets.
• Elevate food for airflow: Avoid blocking vents to maintain crispiness and safety.
• Check manufacturer guidelines: Confirm approved materials for your specific air fryer model.
• Dry ingredients only: Never use paper with wet batters or oils to prevent hazards.

Why Paper Towels in an Air Fryer Might Be a Hot Debate

Let’s be real—air fryers have changed the game. They’ve turned crispy chicken wings, golden fries, and even reheated pizza into guilt-free(ish) pleasures. But with all the convenience, one question keeps popping up in kitchen chats: can you use paper towels in an air fryer safely? If you’ve ever stood there, tongs in hand, wondering if that crumpled paper towel will catch fire or ruin your meal, you’re not alone. I’ve been there too—especially after a late-night craving led to a slightly charred kitchen towel (oops).

The short answer? It’s complicated. Paper towels aren’t inherently evil in an air fryer, but they’re not a free pass either. Like that one friend who’s great at parties but terrible at texting back, paper towels have their moments—and their risks. Whether you’re trying to soak up grease, prevent sticking, or speed up cleanup, this post will break down everything you need to know. We’ll cover safety, alternatives, and even a few hacks that might surprise you. So, let’s dive in and clear up the confusion once and for all.

How Air Fryers Work (And Why Paper Towels Are Risky)

The Science Behind the Crisp

Air fryers use rapid hot air circulation to cook food. Think of them as mini convection ovens. A heating element warms the air, and a high-powered fan blasts it around your food at speeds up to 200+ mph. This creates that crispy, golden crust we all love—without drowning food in oil. But here’s the catch: this intense airflow is *exactly* why paper towels are risky.

When a paper towel is loose in the basket, it acts like a sail. The fan can catch it, fling it toward the heating element, and—yep—ignite it. Even if it doesn’t catch fire, it might stick to hot surfaces and smolder, releasing smoke or toxic fumes. I learned this the hard way when I tried to use a paper towel to absorb excess oil from salmon. Five minutes later, my kitchen smelled like a campfire (and my husband still brings it up).

Temperature and Airflow: A Dangerous Combo

Most air fryers operate between 325°F and 400°F. Paper towels ignite at around 450°F, which sounds safe—until you realize that hot spots near the heating element can exceed 500°F. Plus, the fan’s turbulence can create unpredictable airflow patterns. A paper towel might stay put for a minute… then suddenly dance toward danger.

Real-world example: A friend of mine tried to use a paper towel to prevent her garlic bread from sticking. The towel shifted, touched the heating element, and set off the smoke alarm. The bread? Perfectly golden. The kitchen? A smoky disaster. The lesson? Even a “small” risk isn’t worth it when you’re juggling hungry kids or a hungry stomach.

The Real Risks of Using Paper Towels in an Air Fryer

Fire Hazards and Smoke

Let’s get straight to the scariest risk: fire. Loose paper towels can ignite if they contact the heating element. Even if flames don’t start, smoldering paper releases smoke. Not only does this ruin your food’s flavor, but some paper towels contain dyes or chemicals that release toxins when burned. Ever smelled that acrid, “burnt plastic” odor? That’s your air fryer screaming, “Stop!”

Pro tip: If you see smoke, turn off the air fryer immediately. Unplug it, let it cool, and remove the basket. Never open the basket while it’s running—you could fan flames.

Chemical Leaching and Food Safety

Not all paper towels are created equal. Some contain bleaches, fragrances, or inks. When heated, these additives can leach into your food. For example, recycled paper towels often have more contaminants than virgin pulp. A 2021 study by the Environmental Working Group found that 30% of paper products tested released trace chemicals when heated.

Example: A user reported her roasted veggies tasted “off” after she used a scented paper towel to line the basket. The “fresh linen” fragrance? Not so fresh after 10 minutes at 375°F.

Airflow Blockage and Uneven Cooking

Air fryers rely on *unimpeded* airflow. A paper towel can block vents or create hot spots, leading to uneven cooking. Imagine biting into a “crispy” chicken wing that’s charred on one side and raw on the other. No thanks!

Data point: In a test by Air Fryer Lab, using a paper towel reduced airflow efficiency by 40%. Fries cooked with a towel were 25% less crispy than those without.

When *Can* You Use Paper Towels? (The Safe Exceptions)

Absorbing Excess Grease *After* Cooking

Here’s the golden rule: **Use paper towels only *after* cooking**. Once your food is done, transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels. This soaks up grease without risk. I do this with bacon, fried chicken, or even crispy tofu. Pro tip: Use 2–3 layers and press gently to avoid breaking delicate foods.

Example: After air-frying bacon, I lay the strips on paper towels, then add another towel on top and press lightly. The grease absorbs instantly, leaving you with less mess and lower-fat bacon.

Preventing Splatter (With a Twist)

Want to reduce splatter *during* cooking? Don’t line the basket. Instead, place a paper towel *on top* of the food, secured with oven-safe weights. For example, when cooking marinated chicken, lay a paper towel over the pieces and place a small cast-iron lid or heat-resistant plate on top. The towel absorbs splatter, while the weight keeps it in place.

Warning: Never let the towel touch the heating element. Keep it at least 1 inch away. Test this method with low-fat foods first (e.g., veggies) to avoid flare-ups.

Quick Cleanup Hack

After cooking greasy foods, let the basket cool slightly. Then, place a paper towel inside and shake gently to absorb residual oil. This makes cleanup easier and reduces odors. Just ensure the basket is cool enough that the towel won’t smolder (under 200°F).

Safe Alternatives to Paper Towels (And How to Use Them)

Reusable Silicone Mats

These are game-changers. Silicone mats are heat-resistant (up to 450°F), non-stick, and reusable. They absorb grease and prevent sticking—no fire risk. I use mine for everything from cookies to roasted potatoes.

Tip: Cut the mat to fit your basket. Clean with soap and water, or toss it in the dishwasher. Brands like Silpat or Kitzini last for years.

Parchment Paper (Yes, It’s Safe!)

Parchment paper is air-fryer-safe *if* you follow these rules:

• Pre-cut it to fit the basket (no overhang).
• Poke holes to allow airflow (use a fork or knife).
• Never use wax paper—it melts at high temps.

Example: For sticky foods like honey-glazed salmon, I place a holed parchment sheet in the basket. The fish releases easily, and cleanup takes 10 seconds.

Air Fryer Liners

Silicone or paper liners are designed specifically for air fryers. They’re pre-cut, heat-resistant, and often have perforations for airflow. Brands like Air Fryer Liners or KITCHENPERA offer disposable and reusable options.

Pro tip: Reusable liners save money long-term. Disposable ones are handy for camping or quick meals.

DIY Oil-Soaking Trick

For greasy foods, pre-soak a paper towel in oil and place it *under* the basket’s crisper plate (if removable). The oil absorbs excess fat as it drips. This works for burgers, sausages, or anything with high fat content.

Expert Tips for Air Fryer Safety and Maintenance

Always Keep an Eye on the Basket

Never leave your air fryer unattended, especially when testing new techniques. If you’re using a paper towel for splatter control, check the basket every 2–3 minutes. Most air fryers have timers, but a quick visual check prevents disasters.

Real-life story: A Reddit user left their air fryer running while answering a doorbell. By the time they returned, a paper towel had smoldered and ruined the basket. The cost? $80 for a new basket. Ouch.

Clean Your Air Fryer Regularly

Grease buildup is a fire hazard. After every 3–4 uses, clean the basket, crisper plate, and interior with soapy water. For stubborn residue, soak in vinegar or use a non-abrasive scrubber.

Tip: Wipe the heating element with a damp cloth (unplugged, of course). Never submerge the main unit in water.

Use the Right Oil and Temperature

High-smoke-point oils (e.g., avocado, grapeseed, or refined coconut oil) prevent flare-ups. Avoid butter or olive oil for high-temp cooking. Also, preheat your air fryer for 3–5 minutes. This ensures even cooking and reduces the need for paper towel hacks.

Data Comparison: Paper Towels vs. Alternatives

Method	Fire Risk	Grease Absorption	Ease of Use	Cost	Best For
Paper Towel (Loose)	High	Medium	Easy	$0.05/sheet	Never recommended
Paper Towel (Secured)	Low	Medium	Moderate	$0.05/sheet	Splatter control (with weights)
Silicone Mat	None	High	Easy	$15–$20 (one-time)	Daily use, sticky foods
Parchment Paper	Low (if holed)	Medium	Easy	$0.10/sheet	One-time use, delicate foods
Air Fryer Liners	None	High	Easy	$0.20–$0.50/liner	Convenience, camping

Note: Costs are approximate and vary by brand. Fire risk is based on manufacturer guidelines and user reports.

Final Thoughts: Safety First, Crispiness Second

So, can you use paper towels in an air fryer safely? The answer is a cautious yes—but only in specific, controlled ways. Loose paper towels? Big no-no. But when used *after* cooking, secured with weights, or as part of a cleanup hack, they can be practical. That said, safer alternatives like silicone mats, parchment paper, or air fryer liners are worth the investment. They’re reusable, non-toxic, and eliminate the guesswork.

At the end of the day, your air fryer is a tool—not a magic box. Treat it with care, respect its limits, and you’ll enjoy crispy, delicious meals for years. And if you’re ever unsure? Skip the paper towel. A little extra oil or a slightly stickier basket is far better than a kitchen fire or a ruined dinner.

Got a paper towel hack that works for you? Share it in the comments! Let’s learn from each other—because the best kitchen tips come from real-life wins (and the occasional oops moments).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you use paper towels in an air fryer to absorb excess oil?

While paper towels can absorb oil, they aren’t recommended for direct use in an air fryer. The high-speed air circulation can blow them around, causing a fire hazard or blocking airflow.

Is it safe to put paper towels in an air fryer basket?

No, placing paper towels directly in the air fryer basket is unsafe. They can ignite from direct contact with heating elements or get sucked into the fan, creating a safety risk.

What alternatives can I use instead of paper towels in an air fryer?

Use air fryer-safe liners like parchment paper with pre-cut holes or silicone mats. These allow airflow while keeping food from sticking, making cleanup easier and safer.

Why do people ask, “Can you use paper towels in an air fryer?”

Many want to reduce mess or absorb oil, but the design of air fryers makes paper towels risky. Understanding the airflow mechanics explains why alternatives are better.

Can a paper towel catch fire in an air fryer?

Yes, paper towels can ignite if they touch the heating element or block vents. Always avoid loose materials to prevent fire hazards when using your air fryer.

Does using paper towels in an air fryer affect cooking results?

Yes, paper towels can disrupt hot air circulation, leading to uneven cooking. For optimal results, use accessories designed for air fryers instead of paper towels.