Can You Put Metal in Air Fryer Safety Tips and Best Practices

Yes, you can put metal in an air fryer—but only if it’s oven-safe and designed for high-heat cooking. Avoid non-stick or thin metals that can warp, spark, or damage the appliance, and never use metal foil or containers with sharp edges that may scratch the basket. Always check your air fryer’s manual and opt for food-grade stainless steel or cast iron for safe, effective results.

Key Takeaways

• Never use loose metal that can touch heating elements and cause sparks.
• Approved metal accessories like trays are safe if designed for air fryers.
• Always check manufacturer guidelines before using any metal in your air fryer.
• Use oven-safe materials like stainless steel to avoid hazards.
• Remove metal twist ties or foil tags to prevent fire risks.

Can You Put Metal in Air Fryer? Safety Tips and Best Practices

You’ve just pulled your air fryer out of the box, excited to make crispy chicken wings, sweet potato fries, or even a quick grilled cheese sandwich. But as you reach for your favorite metal tongs or a trusty stainless steel bowl, a nagging question pops into your head: *Can you put metal in an air fryer?* It’s a fair concern. After all, we’ve all heard horror stories about metal in microwaves—sparks, smoke, and ruined appliances. So, it’s natural to wonder if the same rules apply here.

Let’s get one thing straight: air fryers work differently than microwaves, and the answer isn’t a simple “yes” or “no.” Whether metal is safe in your air fryer depends on *what kind* of metal, *how* you use it, and *which model* you own. I’ve spent years testing air fryers, reading manufacturer guidelines, and even accidentally learning a few lessons the hard way (yes, there was smoke involved). In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from the science behind air frying to practical tips for safely using metal accessories. Whether you’re a new air fryer owner or a seasoned pro, this post will help you cook smarter, safer, and with fewer kitchen disasters.

How Air Fryers Work (And Why It Matters for Metal)

Before we dive into the metal question, it helps to understand *how* an air fryer works. Unlike microwaves, which use electromagnetic waves to heat food from the inside, air fryers use a simple but powerful method: rapid air circulation. Here’s the breakdown:

• Heating Element: A heating coil at the top of the air fryer warms up quickly.
• High-Speed Fan: A fan blows the hot air down and around the food in a swirling motion.
• Perforated Basket: The basket’s holes allow air to circulate evenly, creating that crispy, fried texture without the oil.

No Microwave = No Arcing (Usually)

Because air fryers don’t use microwaves, the risk of sparks or “arcing” (the scary light show in a microwave) is far lower. In a microwave, metal reflects the microwaves, causing electrical currents that can spark. But in an air fryer, metal just gets hot—like it would on a stovetop or in an oven.

So, can you put metal in an air fryer? Generally, yes—but with caveats. The key is ensuring the metal doesn’t touch the heating element or the walls where it could cause overheating or damage.

Real-World Example: My First Metal Mistake

When I first got my air fryer, I thought I was being clever. I placed a small metal bowl in the basket to hold a sauce for basting chicken wings. It was only for a few seconds, I told myself. What could go wrong? Well, the bowl touched the heating element, and within seconds, it started to smoke. The plastic handle on the basket melted slightly, and I spent the next hour cleaning a sticky, charred mess. Lesson learned: even brief contact with the heating element can be dangerous.

What Types of Metal Are Safe (And Which to Avoid)

Not all metals are created equal when it comes to air fryer safety. Some are perfectly fine; others can ruin your appliance or even create a fire hazard. Here’s a breakdown of what’s safe, what’s risky, and what to avoid entirely.

Safe Metals for Air Frying

• Stainless Steel: This is your best bet. It’s durable, doesn’t react with food, and handles high heat well. Use stainless steel bowls, pans, or skewers—just keep them away from the heating element.
• Aluminum Foil: Yes, you *can* use foil! It’s great for wrapping fish, lining the basket for easy cleanup, or covering delicate foods. Just don’t let it touch the heating element or block airflow by covering the entire basket.
• Metal Skewers: Perfect for kebabs or veggie sticks. Make sure they’re long enough to stay in the basket without touching the top.
• Oven-Safe Metal Pans: If your air fryer is large enough, you can use a small oven-safe metal pan for baking brownies or casseroles. Just check the dimensions first!

Metals to Use with Caution

• Cast Iron: Technically safe, but heavy and may scratch the non-stick coating on your basket. If you use it, place it on a liner or parchment paper first. Also, preheat it separately to avoid thermal shock.
• Copper: Rarely used in air fryers, but if you have a copper bowl, it’s safe as long as it doesn’t touch the heating element. Just be aware that copper can discolor or react with acidic foods.

Metals to Avoid

• Non-Oven-Safe Metal: Think aluminum takeout containers or flimsy metal lids. These can warp, melt, or even catch fire.
• Metal with Non-Stick Coatings: If the coating is scratched, it can flake off into your food or damage the air fryer’s interior.
• Sharp or Pointy Metal: Knives, forks, or jagged edges can scratch the basket or create hot spots.
• Metal with Plastic Handles: The handle will melt. Always use oven mitts or silicone grips instead.

Pro Tip: If you’re unsure about a metal item, ask yourself: “Would I put this in a 400°F oven?” If yes, it’s probably safe in the air fryer—with proper precautions.

Common Air Fryer Metal Accessories (And How to Use Them Right)

Air fryer accessories are a game-changer, but using them incorrectly can lead to frustration (or worse, a kitchen fire). Here’s how to use popular metal accessories safely and effectively.

Metal Baking Pans and Racks

Many air fryer brands sell stainless steel pans or racks designed specifically for their models. These are great for:

• Baking small cakes or brownies
• Elevating food for even crisping (like chicken wings)
• Cooking multiple items at once (e.g., veggies on the rack, meat below)

How to Use:

• Check the dimensions to ensure it fits without touching the heating element.
• Place it on the bottom of the basket, not on top of food.
• Don’t overcrowd—leave space for air to circulate.

Aluminum Foil: Friend or Foe?

Foil is one of the most controversial air fryer accessories. Some people swear by it; others say it ruins the air fryer’s performance. Here’s the truth:

• ✅ Do: Use foil to line the basket for easy cleanup, wrap delicate fish, or cover food to prevent burning.
• ❌ Don’t: Crush foil into a tight ball (it blocks airflow), let it touch the heating element, or cover the entire basket (this traps heat and steam).

Example: For air fryer salmon, I wrap the fish in foil with a few lemon slices and herbs. The foil keeps it moist while the skin gets crispy. Just make sure the foil is tucked into the basket and doesn’t float up near the heating element.

Metal Skewers and Kebab Sticks

Perfect for veggie kebabs, shrimp skewers, or even mini meatballs. But:

• Use flat, wide skewers (not round) to prevent food from spinning.
• Cut food into uniform sizes for even cooking.
• Don’t overload the skewers—leave space between pieces.

Metal Bowls (Yes, Really!)

Want to make air fryer ramen or a small stir-fry? A stainless steel bowl works! Just:

• Choose a bowl that fits in the basket without touching the sides.
• Add a little oil or liquid to prevent scorching.
• Stir occasionally to avoid hot spots.

What Happens If You Put the Wrong Metal in an Air Fryer?

Let’s talk about the *what-ifs*. What if you accidentally use the wrong metal? Here’s what could happen—and how to fix it (or prevent it).

1. Sparks or Smoke (Rare but Possible)

If metal touches the heating element or the walls near it, you might see sparks or smell smoke. This is usually due to:

• Foil or a metal bowl making contact with the heating coil.
• A loose metal piece (like a fork) bouncing around during cooking.

What to Do: Turn off the air fryer immediately. Unplug it and let it cool. Check for damage to the basket, heating element, or interior walls. If you see scorch marks or melting, contact the manufacturer. Minor smoke is usually harmless, but repeated incidents can shorten the appliance’s lifespan.

2. Melted Plastic or Damaged Coating

Metal with plastic handles or non-stick coatings can melt onto the basket or interior. This creates:

• Sticky, hard-to-clean residue.
• Potential health risks if the coating flakes into food.

What to Do: For melted plastic, soak the basket in warm, soapy water and gently scrape it off with a soft sponge. For damaged non-stick coating, replace the basket if possible. Never use metal utensils on a coated basket.

3. Uneven Cooking or Hot Spots

Metal conducts heat, which can create hot spots in your air fryer. This leads to:

• Burnt spots on food.
• Uneven crisping (e.g., some wings are perfect, others are charred).

What to Do: Rotate the basket halfway through cooking. Use a liner (like parchment paper) between metal and food to distribute heat evenly.

4. Voiding the Warranty

Some air fryer manufacturers explicitly state that using non-approved accessories (like metal pans) voids the warranty. Always check your user manual before experimenting.

Manufacturer Guidelines: What the Brands Say

Every air fryer brand has its own rules about metal. Here’s a quick look at what major brands recommend (always check your specific model’s manual for details).

Data Table: Metal Use in Popular Air Fryer Brands

Brand	Stainless Steel	Aluminum Foil	Cast Iron	Notes
Philips	✅ Safe (with caution)	✅ Safe (don’t cover heating element)	⚠️ Use with liner	“Avoid sharp edges that can scratch coating.”
Ninja	✅ Safe	✅ Safe (use sparingly)	✅ Safe (preheat separately)	“Do not use metal utensils on non-stick surfaces.”
Cosori	✅ Safe	✅ Safe (don’t block airflow)	⚠️ Not recommended	“Use oven-safe accessories only.”
Instant Vortex	✅ Safe	✅ Safe (tuck edges)	✅ Safe (if oven-safe)	“Metal pans must fit without touching walls.”
Dash	✅ Safe	✅ Safe (small amounts)	❌ Not recommended	“Avoid heavy metals that can damage basket.”

Key Takeaway: Most brands allow stainless steel and foil, but cast iron is more controversial. Always follow the manual’s guidelines—even if your friend’s air fryer handles something differently.

Best Practices for Safe Metal Use in Air Fryers

By now, you know that metal in an air fryer is *possible*—but it’s all about doing it right. Here are my top tips for safe, effective metal use.

1. Measure Before You Cook

Before placing any metal accessory in your air fryer, measure it against the basket. Ensure there’s at least 1 inch of clearance from the heating element and walls.

2. Use Liners or Parchment Paper

Place a liner (parchment paper, silicone mat, or air fryer paper liner) between the metal and the basket. This protects the non-stick coating and prevents sticking.

3. Avoid Overcrowding

Even with metal pans or racks, don’t pack the basket too tightly. Air needs to circulate for crispy, even results.

4. Check for Damage Regularly

Inspect your basket, pans, and accessories for scratches, dents, or warping. Damaged metal can create hot spots or safety hazards.

5. Preheat Metal Separately (For Cast Iron)

If using a cast iron skillet, preheat it in the oven first. This prevents thermal shock, which can crack the pan or damage the air fryer.

6. Clean Metal Accessories Properly

Stainless steel and aluminum are easy to clean, but avoid abrasive scrubbers that can scratch the surface. For stubborn residue, soak in hot, soapy water before wiping.

7. When in Doubt, Use Silicone or Ceramic

If you’re nervous about metal, opt for silicone baking cups, ceramic dishes, or air fryer-specific accessories. They’re just as effective and much safer.

Real-World Example: My Go-To Air Fryer Setup

For crispy chicken tenders, I use a stainless steel rack (with a parchment liner) to elevate the food. The rack ensures even cooking, and the liner catches drips. I also place a small metal bowl in the corner for dipping sauce—away from the heating element. It’s a win-win!

Conclusion: Metal in Air Fryers—Yes, But Do It Smart

So, can you put metal in an air fryer? The answer is a cautious yes. With the right metal, proper precautions, and a little common sense, you can safely use stainless steel bowls, aluminum foil, metal skewers, and even baking pans in your air fryer. But remember: not all metals are safe, and even safe metals need to be used correctly.

The key takeaways? Always check your air fryer’s manual, keep metal away from the heating element, and prioritize airflow. If you’re ever unsure, opt for safer alternatives like silicone or parchment paper. And most importantly—don’t be like me and learn the hard way. A few extra seconds of prep can save you from smoke, melted plastic, or a ruined basket.

Air fryers are incredibly versatile, and with these tips, you can unlock their full potential—whether you’re cooking with metal or sticking to the basics. So go ahead, experiment, and enjoy those crispy, guilt-free meals. Just keep safety first, and your air fryer will be your kitchen MVP for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you put metal in an air fryer?

Yes, you can put certain types of metal in an air fryer, but it must be oven-safe and designed for high heat. Avoid warping or damaging the basket by using only metal accessories labeled as air fryer-safe.

Is it safe to use metal bowls or pans in an air fryer?

Metal bowls or pans are safe to use in an air fryer if they’re oven-safe and fit without touching the heating element. Ensure they don’t block airflow, as this can affect cooking performance.

Can you put aluminum foil or metal trays in an air fryer?

Yes, you can use aluminum foil or metal trays in an air fryer to catch drips or hold food, but keep them away from the heating coil. Poke holes in foil to maintain proper air circulation.

What kind of metal can you put in an air fryer?

Stainless steel, cast iron, and other oven-safe metals are generally safe for air fryers. Avoid thin or low-quality metals that may warp or emit harmful fumes under high heat.

Why shouldn’t you put non-oven-safe metal in an air fryer?

Non-oven-safe metals may melt, warp, or release toxic chemicals when exposed to air fryer temperatures. Always check manufacturer guidelines to ensure metal items are rated for high-heat cooking.

Can using metal in an air fryer damage it?

Using improper metal (like sharp edges or non-oven-safe materials) can scratch the basket or disrupt airflow, potentially damaging the unit. Stick to smooth, air fryer-safe metal tools to prolong appliance life.