What Can I Use Instead of Air Fryer Liners Top Alternatives

You don’t need air fryer liners—common kitchen items work just as well. Parchment paper, aluminum foil, or silicone mats are affordable, reusable, or disposable alternatives that prevent sticking and simplify cleanup. For best results, choose based on your cooking needs: silicone for durability, parchment for even heat, or foil for quick meals.

Key Takeaways

• Use parchment paper: Cut to size for a non-stick, disposable option.
• Try silicone mats: Reusable, heat-resistant, and easy to clean.
• Opt for foil: Great for high-heat cooking but avoid acidic foods.
• Skip liners: Lightly oil the basket for simple, no-waste cooking.
• Choose baking sheets: Place under food to catch drips and simplify cleanup.
• Use cornstarch: Lightly coat food to reduce sticking without liners.

Why You Might Need Alternatives to Air Fryer Liners

Air fryers have become a staple in modern kitchens, promising crispy, delicious meals with minimal oil. But as any air fryer owner knows, cleanup can sometimes be a hassle—especially when food sticks to the basket. That’s where air fryer liners come in handy. These small, disposable sheets (usually made of parchment or silicone) sit at the bottom of the basket, catching drips and preventing messes. But what happens when you run out of liners or want to avoid the ongoing cost and waste of buying them regularly? You’re not alone. Many home cooks ask: what can I use instead of air fryer liners?

The truth is, there are several effective, eco-friendly, and budget-friendly substitutes you can use. Whether you’re trying to cut down on single-use products, save a few dollars, or simply don’t have liners on hand, this guide will walk you through the best alternatives. From everyday kitchen staples to smart hacks, you’ll find options that work just as well—if not better—than store-bought liners. And the best part? Most of them are already in your pantry or drawer.

1. Parchment Paper: The Classic and Versatile Substitute

If you’ve ever baked cookies or roasted vegetables in the oven, you’re likely familiar with parchment paper. It’s one of the most reliable and widely available alternatives to air fryer liners. But there are a few tricks to using it effectively in an air fryer.

Why Parchment Paper Works So Well

Parchment paper is heat-resistant (typically up to 450°F or 230°C), non-stick, and doesn’t absorb moisture. It’s perfect for catching oil drips, preventing food from sticking, and making cleanup a breeze. Unlike wax paper, which melts at high temperatures, parchment paper is safe for air frying. It’s also widely available and often more affordable than branded air fryer liners.

One of my favorite moments using parchment paper was when I made garlic butter shrimp. I cut a round to fit the basket, poked a few holes for airflow, and placed the shrimp on top. The result? Juicy, flavorful shrimp with zero sticking—and the basket wiped clean in seconds.

How to Cut and Use Parchment Paper in an Air Fryer

• Measure your basket: Use a ruler or trace the bottom of your air fryer basket onto the parchment paper.
• Cut a circle: Use scissors to cut the parchment to fit snugly, leaving a small lip around the edge to prevent shifting.
• Poke small holes: Use a fork or toothpick to make 8–10 small holes. This allows hot air to circulate properly, ensuring even cooking.
• Secure with food: Place food on top—its weight will hold the paper in place. Avoid using it for very light items like breadcrumbs.

Pro tip: For baskets with raised ridges, cut the parchment slightly smaller so it sits flat and doesn’t block airflow. Also, avoid letting the paper touch the heating element—this can cause scorching or smoke.

When to Avoid Parchment Paper

While parchment is excellent for most uses, it’s not ideal for very high-heat recipes (above 450°F) or for foods that require direct contact with the basket for crispiness (like certain frozen fries or hash browns). In those cases, you might want to skip the liner or use a different method.

2. Aluminum Foil: The Budget-Friendly and Reusable Option

Aluminum foil is a kitchen superhero—and it’s one of the most accessible alternatives to air fryer liners. It’s cheap, readily available, and can be molded to fit any basket shape.

Benefits of Using Aluminum Foil

• Heat conductivity: Foil spreads heat evenly, which can help with browning.
• Custom fit: You can shape it to match your basket’s contours, including ridges and corners.
• Reusable (with care): If you rinse and dry foil after light use (e.g., baking fish), it can be reused 2–3 times.
• Great for oily foods: Foil excels at containing greasy drips from bacon, sausages, or marinated meats.

I once used foil to cook a batch of chicken wings with sticky buffalo sauce. Without the foil, the sauce would’ve baked onto the basket and required scrubbing. Instead, I just lifted the foil out, wiped the basket, and was done in minutes.

How to Use Foil Safely and Effectively

• Use heavy-duty foil: It’s less likely to tear or crumple during cooking.
• Shape it to the basket: Press the foil gently into the grooves, but don’t let it block the air vents.
• Poke holes: Just like with parchment, make 8–10 small holes to ensure airflow. Without holes, food can steam instead of crisp.
• Don’t cover the entire basket: Leave a small gap around the edge so hot air can rise from the bottom.

Important Safety Notes

While foil is safe to use in air fryers, avoid letting it touch the heating element—this can cause sparks or smoke. Also, never use foil with acidic ingredients (like tomato sauce or citrus marinades) for long cooking times, as the acid can react with the metal and leach into food. For short cooks (under 15 minutes), it’s generally fine.

Tip: For extra grip, lightly spray the foil with cooking oil before adding food. This helps prevent sticking, especially with delicate items like fish fillets.

3. Silicone Mats and Baking Liners: Reusable and Eco-Friendly

If you’re looking for a sustainable, long-term alternative to disposable liners, silicone mats are a fantastic choice. These heat-resistant, non-stick sheets are designed for baking but work perfectly in air fryers.

Why Silicone Mats Are a Great Choice

• Reusable: One mat can last years with proper care.
• Non-stick surface: Food rarely sticks, even without oil.
• Easy to clean: Just rinse with soap and water or toss in the dishwasher.
• Heat resistant: Most mats handle temperatures up to 480°F (250°C), well within air fryer ranges.

I bought a set of silicone baking mats a few years ago, and they’ve saved me from buying countless parchment sheets. I use them for everything from air-fried tofu to roasted Brussels sprouts. The cleanup? A quick rinse, and they’re ready for next time.

How to Use Silicone Mats in an Air Fryer

1. Measure your basket and cut the mat to fit (use kitchen scissors).
2. Place it at the bottom of the basket, ensuring it doesn’t cover air vents.
3. Add your food on top. No need to grease—most mats are naturally non-stick.
4. Cook as usual. The mat will catch drips and prevent sticking.
5. After cooking, remove the mat, rinse, and air dry.

Choosing the Right Silicone Mat

Not all silicone mats are created equal. Look for:

• Food-grade silicone: Ensures no harmful chemicals leach into food.
• Perforated or vented design: Some mats have small holes for airflow—ideal for air frying.
• Thickness (1–2mm): Thicker mats are more durable and less likely to warp.

Note: Avoid using silicone mats with sharp utensils, as they can tear. Use wooden or silicone-tipped tools instead.

4. Cooking Spray and Oil Brushing: The No-Liner Approach

Sometimes, the best alternative to a liner is… no liner at all. A light coat of cooking spray or oil can prevent sticking and reduce cleanup—without any extra materials.

When to Use the No-Liner Method

This approach works best for:

• Foods that naturally release oils (like fatty meats or marinated chicken).
• Dishes that benefit from direct basket contact (e.g., crispy fries, hash browns).
• Quick-cooking items (under 15 minutes), where sticking is less likely.

I use this method for my go-to air fryer sweet potato fries. I toss the fries in a little avocado oil, season, and cook at 400°F for 12 minutes. The fries come out crispy on the outside, fluffy inside—and the basket wipes clean with a damp cloth.

Tips for Using Oil or Spray Effectively

• Use high-smoke-point oils: Avocado, canola, or grapeseed oil work best. Avoid olive oil at high temps—it can smoke.
• Light application: Too much oil can drip and cause smoke. Use a spray bottle or brush for even coverage.
• Preheat the basket: A hot basket helps food sear instantly, reducing sticking.
• Shake halfway: For even cooking, shake the basket after 5–7 minutes. This also helps prevent stuck-on pieces.

Pros and Cons of the No-Liner Method

Pros:

• No waste or extra materials.
• Better crispiness (food touches the basket directly).
• Ideal for low-fat cooking—just use a minimal oil spray.

Cons:

• Risk of sticking with delicate or starchy foods.
• May require more scrubbing for oily or sticky recipes.
• Not ideal for very messy foods (e.g., marinated meats).

5. Perforated Baking Pans and Air Fryer Trays: Smart Accessories

If you’re willing to invest in a few accessories, perforated baking pans or dedicated air fryer trays can be a game-changer. These are designed specifically for air fryers and offer the benefits of liners—without the waste.

What Are Perforated Trays?

These are small, metal or silicone trays with holes or slots that allow hot air to circulate. They sit inside the air fryer basket and act as a reusable liner. Some are shaped to fit specific air fryer models (like Instant Vortex or Ninja Foodi), while others are universal.

I use a perforated stainless steel tray for cooking fish fillets and chicken breasts. The holes ensure even cooking, and the tray lifts out easily for cleaning. It’s like having a built-in liner that never runs out.

Benefits of Using Trays

• Reusable and durable: Stainless steel or food-grade silicone trays last for years.
• Perfect airflow: Holes are strategically placed for optimal circulation.
• Easy to clean: Most are dishwasher-safe.
• Great for small items: Prevents small foods (like shrimp or veggies) from falling through basket gaps.

How to Use and Care for Air Fryer Trays

1. Place the tray in the basket before adding food.
2. Add ingredients on top—no need for oil unless desired.
3. Cook as usual. The tray catches drips and prevents sticking.
4. After cooking, remove the tray and wash with soap and water.
5. Store flat to prevent warping.

Tip: Look for trays with handles or grips for easier removal. Some even come with lids for steaming or covering food.

Cost vs. Long-Term Savings

While trays cost more upfront ($10–$25), they pay for themselves after a few uses. Compare that to buying disposable liners every few weeks—trays are far more economical and eco-friendly in the long run.

6. Creative Household Hacks: What Else Can You Use?

When you’re in a pinch, everyday items can double as air fryer liners. These hacks are great for emergencies or when you want to repurpose what you already have.

Wax Paper (With Caution)

Wax paper is not heat-resistant and can melt or catch fire at high temperatures. However, it can be used for very short cooks (under 5 minutes) at low heat (under 350°F). For example, I once used wax paper to warm leftover pizza for 3 minutes at 320°F. It worked fine—but I wouldn’t risk it for longer or hotter cooking.

Cheesecloth or Cotton Cloth (For Moisture Control)

Not for catching drips, but for absorbing moisture. Place a small piece of cheesecloth between the basket and food (e.g., for reheating bread or pastries). It prevents sogginess without blocking airflow. Just ensure it’s clean and food-safe.

Oven-Safe Ceramic or Glass Dishes

Small ramekins or oven-safe bowls can hold marinated foods (like chicken skewers) while catching drips. Just make sure the dish fits and doesn’t block airflow. I use a small ceramic dish for cooking salmon with lemon slices—the dish holds the fish and juices, and the basket stays clean.

DIY Liners from Scratch

• From parchment rolls: Cut and hole-punch as described earlier.
• From silicone baking mats: Cut to size with scissors.
• From old silicone spatulas: In a true emergency, a clean, heat-resistant silicone spatula head (if detachable) can cover a small section—just don’t let it touch the heating element.

Remember: Always prioritize safety. If something feels unsafe (e.g., a material that smokes or melts), remove it immediately.

Comparing the Alternatives: A Quick Reference

Alternative	Cost	Reusability	Best For	Cleanup
Parchment Paper	$–$$	Single-use (or light reuse)	Most foods, especially baked goods	Wipe or rinse basket
Aluminum Foil	$	2–3 uses (if rinsed)	Oily foods, meats, budget cooking	Wipe or rinse basket
Silicone Mats	$$	High (years)	Frequent use, eco-conscious cooks	Wash mat and basket
Cooking Spray/Oil	$	N/A (no liner)	Crispy foods, low-fat cooking	Wipe or scrub basket
Perforated Trays	$$	High (years)	Small items, dedicated air fryer users	Wash tray and basket

Final Thoughts: Finding Your Perfect Air Fryer Liner Alternative

So, what can I use instead of air fryer liners? As you’ve seen, the answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. It depends on your cooking habits, budget, and environmental values. Whether you reach for parchment paper, foil, a silicone mat, or skip liners altogether with a light oil spray, there’s a solution that works for you.

Start simple. Try parchment or foil if you’re new to air frying. If you cook frequently, invest in a silicone mat or perforated tray—they’ll save you time, money, and waste in the long run. And remember: sometimes the best liner is none at all. A well-preheated basket and a light oil coating can deliver crisp, delicious results without any extra tools.

The goal isn’t to eliminate mess—it’s to make cooking enjoyable and cleanup effortless. With these alternatives, you can keep your air fryer in top shape, reduce waste, and focus on what really matters: making great food for yourself and your loved ones. Happy air frying!

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I use instead of air fryer liners to prevent sticking?

You can use parchment paper, silicone baking mats, or aluminum foil as effective alternatives. Just ensure they’re cut to fit the basket and have small holes for airflow to maintain crispiness.

Are there reusable alternatives to air fryer liners?

Yes, reusable silicone baking mats or air fryer-specific silicone baskets are eco-friendly and heat-resistant options. They’re easy to clean and last for many uses, making them a sustainable choice.

Can I use aluminum foil as a substitute for air fryer liners?

Aluminum foil works well as a quick alternative to air fryer liners, but poke small holes to allow proper air circulation. Avoid acidic foods, as they may react with the foil.

What can I use instead of air fryer liners for easy cleanup?

Try silicone liners or non-stick cooking spray paired with a light oil mist for hassle-free cleanup. Both options reduce mess while keeping food from sticking to the basket.

Is parchment paper a good alternative to air fryer liners?

Yes, parchment paper is a great substitute—just cut it to size and perforate it for airflow. It’s affordable, widely available, and prevents sticking without affecting cooking performance.

Can I cook without any liner in my air fryer?

Absolutely! Lightly grease the basket with oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Just avoid metal utensils to keep the non-stick coating intact for longer.