Can All Air Fryers Dehydrate Discover the Truth Here

Not all air fryers can dehydrate—only models with a dedicated dehydrate function or precise low-temperature control (typically 95–165°F) are suitable for drying fruits, vegetables, or jerky. Check your air fryer’s settings and manual to confirm dehydration capability, as most standard models lack the airflow and sustained low heat needed for proper dehydration. Don’t assume all-in-one convenience—know your machine’s limits before attempting it.

Key Takeaways

• Not all air fryers dehydrate: Check for a dedicated dehydrate function or low-temperature settings.
• Temperature range matters: Models with 90–170°F are best for dehydration.
• Capacity affects results: Larger baskets allow better airflow and even drying.
• Accessories enhance dehydration: Use mesh trays or racks for optimal performance.
• Prep food properly: Slice uniformly for consistent dehydration results.
• Time varies by model: Always monitor first attempts; adjust as needed.

Can All Air Fryers Dehydrate? Let’s Settle This Once and For All

Imagine this: You’ve just pulled a batch of golden, crispy sweet potato fries from your air fryer. The aroma fills the kitchen, and you’re already dreaming of your next snack adventure. Then it hits you—“Wait, can I use this same machine to make dried fruit or beef jerky?” You’re not alone. This is one of the most common questions I hear from air fryer owners. After all, air fryers promise versatility, speed, and healthier cooking. But can all air fryers dehydrate food?

Let’s be honest—air fryers have become kitchen staples. They’re sleek, fast, and perfect for guilt-free crisping. But when it comes to dehydrating—slowly removing moisture from food to preserve it or create shelf-stable snacks—many people are left scratching their heads. You might’ve seen YouTube videos of someone turning their air fryer into a mini dehydrator, but is that actually safe? Effective? Or just a clever hack that doesn’t deliver?

In this deep dive, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about whether air fryers can dehydrate. We’ll explore which models can do it, how to do it right, and what to avoid. Whether you’re a dehydrating newbie or a seasoned pro looking to save space, this guide will help you make smart, informed choices—without the fluff.

How Air Fryers Work (And Why That Matters for Dehydrating)

The Science Behind Air Frying

At its core, an air fryer is a compact convection oven. It uses a heating element and a powerful fan to circulate hot air around food at high speeds. This rapid airflow creates a crispy, fried-like texture without submerging the food in oil. Think of it like a mini turbo oven with a fan on steroids.

But here’s the catch: dehydrating is not about crisping—it’s about slow, consistent moisture removal. Traditional dehydrators do this by using low heat (usually between 95°F and 165°F) and steady airflow over several hours. The goal is to gently pull out water without cooking or burning the food.

Air Fryer vs. Dehydrator: Key Differences

While both devices use heat and airflow, their design goals are different:

• Temperature range: Most air fryers start at 180°F (82°C) and go up to 400°F (205°C). That’s great for frying, but too hot for gentle dehydration.
• Airflow pattern: Air fryers blast air from above, which can dry the surface too quickly, leaving moisture trapped inside.
• Time control: Dehydrators often run for 6–24 hours. Many air fryers have timers that max out at 60 minutes—unless you manually restart them.
• Capacity: Air fryers are smaller, so you can’t dehydrate large batches at once.

So, can all air fryers dehydrate? Not in the traditional sense. But some can—with the right settings and techniques. Let’s explore which ones are up to the task.

Which Air Fryers Can Actually Dehydrate? (And Which Can’t)

Air Fryers with a Dedicated Dehydrate Function

The good news? Some modern air fryers do have a built-in dehydrate mode. These models are designed to handle low-and-slow drying. They typically offer:

• Temperature ranges as low as 90°F–100°F (32°C–38°C)
• Extended timers (up to 24 hours)
• Even airflow distribution

Examples include:

• Cosori Air Fryer Max XL – Offers a “Dehydrate” button with adjustable time (1–24 hours) and temperature (95°F–170°F).
• Ninja Foodi DualZone Air Fryer – Features a “Dehydrate” setting on each basket, ideal for drying fruits, veggies, or jerky simultaneously.
• Instant Vortex Plus 6-Quart – Includes a dehydrate function with precise low-heat control.

If your air fryer has a dehydrate mode, you’re in luck. It’s specifically engineered for this task—so you’re not just “hacking” the machine. These models often come with recipe guides and preset programs to help you get started.

Air Fryers Without a Dehydrate Function (But Can Still Dehydrate)

Don’t panic if your air fryer doesn’t have a “Dehydrate” button. Many standard models can still dry food—if used correctly. The key is to:

• Use the lowest possible temperature (ideally 135°F–150°F)
• Run it in short cycles (30–60 minutes), then let the food rest to redistribute moisture
• Use the “Air Fry” or “Bake” setting at minimum heat
• Manually restart the cycle every hour or so

Pro tip: If your air fryer’s lowest setting is 180°F, it’s too hot for most fruits and herbs. But it can work for hardier foods like jerky or vegetable chips—just keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

Air Fryers That Should Not Be Used for Dehydrating

Not all air fryers are created equal. Avoid dehydrating if your model:

• Has no temperature below 180°F
• Lacks a timer longer than 60 minutes
• Overheats easily or has poor airflow control
• Is a very basic, budget model with no presets

For example, older or ultra-cheap models (like some $30–$50 air fryers from discount stores) often lack the precision needed for safe dehydration. Using them for this purpose can lead to uneven drying, scorched food, or even a safety risk if the unit overheats during long cycles.

How to Dehydrate in an Air Fryer (Step-by-Step Guide)

Step 1: Check Your Air Fryer’s Capabilities

Before you start, confirm:

• Can it go below 150°F? (Ideal range: 135°F–145°F)
• Does it have a timer that allows 4+ hours of continuous use?
• Is the basket perforated enough for even airflow?

If yes, you’re good to go. If not, consider using it only for short, low-heat cycles (more on that below).

Step 2: Prep Your Food for Dehydrating

Proper prep makes all the difference. Here’s how to get the best results:

• Fruits: Slice apples, bananas, or strawberries into ¼-inch (6 mm) pieces. Soak in lemon juice (1 tbsp per cup of water) to prevent browning.
• Vegetables: Cut carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms uniformly. Blanching (boiling briefly, then cooling) helps preserve color and texture.
• Herbs: Wash and dry thoroughly. Remove leaves from stems.
• Meat (for jerky): Use lean cuts like flank or sirloin. Slice against the grain into ¼-inch strips. Marinate for 4–12 hours.

Tip: Never overcrowd the basket. Leave space between pieces so air can circulate. If needed, dehydrate in batches.

Step 3: Set the Right Temperature and Time

Here’s a quick guide based on food type:

Food Type	Temperature	Time	Notes
Apple Slices	135°F	4–6 hours	Flip halfway; check for leathery texture
Banana Chips	135°F	5–7 hours	Soak in lemon water first
Beef Jerky	160°F	4–5 hours	Ensure internal temp reaches 160°F for safety
Tomato Slices	140°F	6–8 hours	Pat dry before drying; remove seeds
Basil Leaves	110°F	2–3 hours	Crumbly when done; store in airtight jar

Important: If your air fryer doesn’t go below 180°F, you can still dehydrate—but only in short bursts. Run it for 30 minutes, then let it cool and the food rest for 1–2 hours. Repeat until done. This prevents scorching and allows moisture to escape evenly.

Step 4: Monitor and Flip

Unlike dehydrators, air fryers don’t always dry evenly. To fix this:

• Open the basket every 1–2 hours to flip or rearrange pieces
• Check for dryness: Food should be leathery (for fruit) or brittle (for jerky), with no moisture when squeezed
• If edges are drying too fast, move outer pieces to the center

Step 5: Cool and Store

Once dehydrated, let food cool completely (15–30 minutes). Then:

• Store in airtight containers or vacuum-sealed bags
• Keep in a cool, dark, dry place
• For long-term storage, add oxygen absorbers
• Label with the date—most dehydrated foods last 6–12 months

Common Mistakes When Dehydrating in Air Fryers (And How to Avoid Them)

1. Using Too High a Temperature

This is the #1 mistake. High heat cooks the outside but traps moisture inside. Result? Crunchy on the outside, soggy in the middle.

Solution: Stick to 135°F–160°F. If your air fryer’s lowest setting is 180°F, use the “short cycle + rest” method described above.

2. Overcrowding the Basket

Piling food too thick blocks airflow. You’ll end up with uneven drying and longer cook times.

Solution: Lay pieces in a single layer with space between. Use multiple baskets if your model allows (like dual-zone air fryers).

3. Skipping the Rest Periods

Dehydrating isn’t a sprint—it’s a marathon. Resting lets moisture redistribute, so the next cycle can pull it out evenly.

Solution: After every 1–2 hours, pause the air fryer and let the food sit at room temperature for 30–60 minutes.

4. Not Testing for Dryness

“Done” means no moisture when pressed. For fruit, it should bend but not snap. For jerky, it should crack but not break.

Solution: Test a piece after 3 hours, then every 30–60 minutes. Don’t rely on time alone.

5. Using the Wrong Food

Not all foods dehydrate well. High-moisture items like watermelon or lettuce turn into mush, not chips.

Solution: Stick to firm fruits (apples, pears), root vegetables (carrots, beets), and lean meats. Avoid leafy greens or high-fat meats (they spoil faster).

Air Fryer Dehydrating vs. Traditional Dehydrators: Which Is Better?

Speed and Convenience

Air fryer: Faster setup, no preheating, compact size. Great for small batches or quick snacks.

Dehydrator: Designed for long, unattended runs. Can handle 5–10 trays at once—perfect for bulk drying.

Cost and Space

Air fryer: One machine, multiple uses (frying, roasting, baking, dehydrating). Saves counter space.

Dehydrator: Specialized tool. Larger footprint but more efficient for serious dehydrators.

Energy Efficiency

Air fryer: Uses less energy per cycle (typically 800–1500 watts), but may require multiple cycles.

Dehydrator: Runs longer (8–24 hours) but at lower wattage (300–600 watts). More efficient for long-term drying.

Quality of Results

Air fryer: Can achieve good results with attention to detail. Risk of uneven drying if not monitored.

Dehydrator: More consistent results, especially for large batches. Better airflow and temperature control.

Bottom line: If you dehydrate occasionally (a batch of apple chips or jerky every few weeks), your air fryer can absolutely handle it—especially if it has a dehydrate mode. But if you’re drying 5 lbs of tomatoes every summer, invest in a dedicated dehydrator.

Final Thoughts: So, Can All Air Fryers Dehydrate?

Let’s cut to the chase: No, not all air fryers can dehydrate—but many can, with the right approach. The key is understanding your machine’s limits and adapting your method.

If your air fryer has a dedicated dehydrate function, you’re golden. You can safely and effectively dry fruits, veggies, herbs, and even jerky with minimal fuss. These models are engineered for low-and-slow moisture removal, so you’ll get consistent, high-quality results.

But if your air fryer lacks that feature, don’t write it off. With careful temperature control, proper prep, and a few rest cycles, you can still dehydrate many foods. Just be patient, monitor closely, and avoid high-heat shortcuts. The “short cycle + rest” method is your best friend here.

And if your air fryer’s lowest setting is 180°F or higher? It’s not ideal—but not impossible. Use it only for hardy foods like jerky or vegetable chips, and never leave it unattended. For delicate items like herbs or berries, a traditional dehydrator is safer and more effective.

Ultimately, your air fryer is more versatile than most people realize. It’s not just for fries and chicken wings. With a little creativity and attention to detail, it can become a multi-functional tool for healthy, homemade snacks. Just remember: dehydrating is a slow process, and rushing it leads to disappointment.

So go ahead—try making your own apple chips, zucchini crisps, or even banana “bacon” in your air fryer. Start small, follow the steps, and enjoy the satisfaction of creating something delicious and shelf-stable. And if you’re serious about dehydrating long-term? Consider adding a dedicated dehydrator to your kitchen arsenal. But for now, your air fryer can absolutely hold its own.

Happy dehydrating—and happy snacking!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can all air fryers dehydrate food?

No, not all air fryers can dehydrate food. While some models come with a dedicated dehydrate function or compatible settings, basic air fryers without temperature control below 180°F (82°C) may not achieve proper dehydration.

How do I know if my air fryer can dehydrate?

Check your air fryer’s manual or settings for a “dehydrate” mode or adjustable temperatures as low as 95–175°F (35–80°C). Models with a dehydrate function or air fryer dehydrate capability will explicitly mention it in the features.

What types of air fryers can dehydrate fruits and vegetables?

Air fryers with a dehydrate function or precise low-temperature settings (ideally 95–175°F) can dehydrate fruits, veggies, and even jerky. Look for convection-style air fryers with extended timer options for best results.

Can I use my air fryer to dehydrate without a dehydrate setting?

Yes, but it’s tricky. If your air fryer can maintain a temperature below 180°F (82°C) and has a long timer, you can attempt dehydration. However, uneven airflow and heat may lead to inconsistent results compared to a dedicated dehydrator.

Is dehydrating in an air fryer as effective as a food dehydrator?

While an air fryer with a dehydrate function can work, it’s less efficient than a dedicated dehydrator. Air fryers have smaller capacity and less precise airflow, which may require more frequent tray rotation and longer drying times.

What are the best air fryer dehydrate tips?

Slice food uniformly, avoid overcrowding trays, and rotate them halfway through. Use the lowest temperature setting (or dehydrate mode) and check food every few hours to prevent over-drying.