Can Paper Towels Go in the Air Fryer Find Out Now

No, you should never put paper towels in the air fryer—they can catch fire due to the appliance’s high heat and rapid air circulation. Even damp paper towels pose a serious safety risk, potentially releasing smoke or igniting within seconds. Always use air-fryer-safe alternatives like parchment paper or silicone liners instead.

Key Takeaways

• Never use paper towels in air fryers—they can ignite or damage the appliance.
• Opt for air fryer-safe liners like parchment paper with holes for airflow.
• Pat food dry beforehand to reduce moisture instead of relying on paper towels.
• Clean the basket promptly to avoid residue buildup and lingering odors.
• Check manufacturer guidelines for specific recommendations on safe accessories.

The Air Fryer Dilemma: Should You Toss Paper Towels In?

We’ve all been there—rushing to make dinner after a long day, only to realize your air fryer basket is a greasy mess from last night’s chicken wings. You grab a paper towel, thinking, “Can I just toss this in to soak up the oil?” It seems like a quick fix, right? But before you hit “start,” pause and ask yourself: can paper towels go in the air fryer?

Air fryers have become a kitchen staple for their ability to crisp food with little to no oil. But their high heat and rapid air circulation create unique challenges. One wrong move—like using the wrong material—can lead to smoke, fire, or even damage to your appliance. I learned this the hard way when I once tried to line my air fryer basket with parchment paper (spoiler: it didn’t end well). So, let’s dive into the truth about paper towels, the science behind air fryer safety, and how to keep your cooking both easy and hazard-free.

The Science Behind Air Fryers and Paper Towels

How Air Fryers Work

Air fryers use a powerful heating element and a high-speed fan to circulate hot air (usually between 300°F and 400°F) around food. This rapid airflow creates the crispy, fried texture we love—without the need for deep frying. The process relies on consistent air movement, which means anything blocking or obstructing the flow can affect cooking performance.

Imagine trying to dry your hair with a fan while holding a blanket in front of it. The airflow gets disrupted, and the result is uneven. The same happens in your air fryer if you place a paper towel inside. The towel can block hot air from reaching your food, leading to uneven cooking or longer cook times.

What Happens When Paper Towels Meet Heat?

Paper towels are made from wood pulp and are highly flammable. When exposed to direct heat or open flames, they can catch fire quickly. In an air fryer, the risk isn’t just from flames—it’s from the combination of high heat and airflow.

• Smoke: Even if the paper towel doesn’t burst into flames, it can start to smolder and release smoke. This not only smells terrible but can also leave a lingering odor in your kitchen (and your food).
• Burning: If the paper towel is too close to the heating element or gets caught in the fan, it can catch fire. This is especially risky if the towel is saturated with oil, as oil increases flammability.
• Airflow disruption: As mentioned, paper towels can block airflow, leading to undercooked or soggy food. No one wants a “crispy” potato that’s still mushy in the center.

One user shared their story online: “I put a paper towel in to soak up extra oil from my bacon. The next thing I knew, the kitchen was filled with smoke, and the smoke alarm was blaring. I had to air out the house for an hour!”

Can Paper Towels Go in the Air Fryer? The Verdict

The Short Answer: No, Not Safely

So, can paper towels go in the air fryer? The short answer is no—not in the way most people assume. While you might see social media hacks suggesting you use paper towels to line the basket or absorb oil, these methods come with serious risks. Most air fryer manufacturers explicitly warn against using paper towels inside the appliance due to fire hazards.

For example, brands like Philips, Ninja, and Cosori all state in their user manuals that paper products (including paper towels and parchment paper) should not be placed in the air fryer basket during cooking. Why? Because the intense heat and airflow can cause these materials to ignite or melt, potentially damaging the unit or starting a fire.

Why the Risk Isn’t Worth It

Let’s break down the risks further:

• Fire hazard: Paper towels can ignite at temperatures as low as 450°F, and many air fryers operate above this threshold. Even if the towel doesn’t catch fire, smoldering can release toxic fumes.
• Appliance damage: If a paper towel melts or burns inside the basket, it can leave behind residue that’s hard to clean and may damage the non-stick coating over time.
• Food contamination: Burnt paper particles can mix with your food, altering its taste and potentially introducing harmful chemicals.
• Voided warranty: Using unauthorized materials like paper towels may void your air fryer’s warranty. If something goes wrong, you’re on your own for repairs.

Think of it this way: you wouldn’t put a paper plate in the oven at 400°F, right? The same logic applies to your air fryer. Just because it’s “convenient” doesn’t mean it’s safe.

Safe Alternatives to Paper Towels in the Air Fryer

Use a Drip Tray or Baking Sheet

Instead of lining the basket with paper towels, place a small oven-safe drip tray or a piece of foil (with holes poked in it) at the bottom of the air fryer drawer. This catches excess oil without obstructing airflow. For example, a small ceramic or metal baking dish works well for foods like sausages or marinated chicken.

Tip: If using foil, make sure it’s not touching the heating element or fan. Leave at least 1 inch of space around the edges to allow air to circulate freely.

Try Air Fryer-Safe Liners

Many brands now offer reusable silicone or parchment liners specifically designed for air fryers. These are:

• Heat-resistant: Made from food-grade silicone or specially treated parchment that won’t ignite at high temperatures.
• Non-stick: Prevent food from sticking without the need for oil or paper towels.
• Easy to clean: Just rinse or toss in the dishwasher.

One popular option is the Air Fryer Silicone Liner by OXO, which comes in various sizes to fit most baskets. Users love that it reduces cleanup time and keeps food from sticking—without the fire risk.

Drain Oil After Cooking (Not Before)

If you’re cooking fatty foods like bacon, ground beef, or chicken thighs, drain the oil after cooking—not during. Simply remove the basket, pour the excess oil into a heat-safe container, and return the food to the air fryer if needed. This keeps the basket clean without introducing flammable materials.

Pro tip: Place a paper towel in a bowl or on a plate to drain the oil, not in the air fryer itself. That way, you get the benefit of oil absorption without the danger.

Pre-Cook with a Paper Towel (Safely)

Need to absorb moisture from food before air frying? Do it before placing it in the basket. For example:

• Blot raw chicken or fish with a paper towel to remove surface moisture (this helps it crisp up better).
• Press a paper towel into ground beef to remove excess fat before forming patties.
• Pat dry sliced vegetables to prevent steaming instead of crisping.

This way, you get the drying benefit of paper towels—without ever putting them in the air fryer.

What to Do If You Accidentally Used a Paper Towel

Immediate Steps

So, you made a mistake. You put a paper towel in the air fryer, and now there’s smoke or a burning smell. Don’t panic—here’s what to do:

1. Turn off and unplug the air fryer immediately. Safety first.
2. Do not open the basket right away. Wait 2-3 minutes to let the temperature drop and prevent a sudden influx of oxygen (which could reignite any smoldering material).
3. Carefully remove the basket and inspect. Look for any remaining paper fragments or melted residue.
4. Clean thoroughly. Use warm, soapy water and a soft sponge. For stubborn residue, a baking soda paste can help. Avoid abrasive scrubbers that might damage the non-stick coating.

If you see flames, use a fire extinguisher or smother the fire with a metal lid (never water—this can spread oil fires).

Long-Term Damage Check

After the incident, check your air fryer for:

• Burn marks or warping in the basket. If the metal is discolored or bent, it may not cook evenly.
• Unusual smells during future use. Lingering odors could indicate residue in the heating element or fan.
• Reduced performance. If food isn’t crisping as well, the airflow might be compromised.

If you notice any of these issues, contact the manufacturer or consider replacing the basket or unit.

Data Table: Comparing Air Fryer Liners and Alternatives

Option	Heat Resistance	Reusable?	Ease of Cleaning	Risk Level	Best For
Paper Towel	Low (catches fire above 450°F)	No	Disposable	High	Not recommended
Regular Parchment Paper	Medium (safe up to 420°F, but can ignite if loose)	No	Disposable	Medium	Foods with no oil (must be weighed down)
Air Fryer Parchment Liners (pre-cut)	High (safe up to 450°F)	No	Disposable	Low	Most foods, especially sticky or wet items
Silicone Liners	High (safe up to 500°F)	Yes	Easy (dishwasher-safe)	Very Low	All foods, eco-friendly choice
Aluminum Foil (with holes)	High (safe up to 500°F)	Sometimes (if undamaged)	Easy (rinse or replace)	Low (if used correctly)	Oily foods, drip catching

This table highlights why silicone liners and pre-cut parchment are far safer than paper towels. While paper towels are cheap and convenient, the risk simply isn’t worth it.

Final Thoughts: Keep Your Air Fryer Safe and Effective

So, can paper towels go in the air fryer? The answer is a resounding no—not during cooking. While it might seem like a quick fix for oil absorption or cleanup, the risks far outweigh the benefits. From fire hazards to appliance damage, using paper towels in your air fryer is a gamble you don’t need to take.

Instead, opt for safer, more effective alternatives. Silicone liners, pre-cut parchment, and proper post-cook oil draining can keep your air fryer running smoothly—and your kitchen smoke-free. And remember, just because something works in a viral video doesn’t mean it’s safe for your home.

At the end of the day, your air fryer is a tool designed for convenience and health. Treat it right by following manufacturer guidelines and using the right accessories. Your future self (and your smoke alarm) will thank you. So next time you’re tempted to toss that paper towel in, take a breath, grab a silicone liner, and cook with confidence. Happy air frying!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can paper towels go in the air fryer safely?

No, placing paper towels directly in the air fryer basket or on food is unsafe. The high heat and rapid air circulation can ignite the paper or cause it to blow into the heating element, creating a fire hazard.

Why do people ask if paper towels go in the air fryer?

Many assume paper towels are heat-resistant like microwave-safe parchment paper, but air fryers operate at much higher temperatures. This common confusion leads to concerns about safety and proper cleanup methods.

Are there safe alternatives to using paper towels in an air fryer?

Yes, use air fryer-safe liners like parchment paper with pre-cut holes or silicone mats designed for air fryers. These options allow airflow while preventing food from sticking without the fire risk.

Can paper towels be used near an air fryer during cooking?

You can place paper towels on nearby countertops to blot excess oil from cooked food, but never inside the cooking chamber. Always keep them away from the air fryer’s vents to avoid accidental contact with heat.

What happens if a paper towel touches the air fryer’s heating element?

Contact with the heating element can instantly ignite the paper, causing smoke or fire. If this happens, unplug the air fryer immediately and monitor it closely before further use.

Can paper towels go in the air fryer for reheating greasy foods?

Never place paper towels under greasy items like fried chicken in the air fryer. Instead, use a raised tray or grill insert to let excess oil drip away safely while maintaining airflow.