Can You Put Paper Towels in an Air Fryer Find Out Now

No, you should never put paper towels in an air fryer—they can catch fire, melt, or release harmful chemicals due to the high heat and rapid air circulation. Instead, use air-fryer-safe liners or parchment paper with holes to ensure even cooking and easy cleanup without the risk. Always prioritize safety to protect your appliance and your food.

Key Takeaways

• Never use paper towels: They can catch fire or damage your air fryer.
• Opt for parchment paper: Use perforated or air-fryer-safe parchment instead.
• Check manufacturer guidelines: Always verify what liners your model allows.
• Pat food dry first: Reduce moisture without needing paper towels.
• Clean baskets properly: Use non-abrasive tools to avoid residue buildup.
• Use silicone liners: Reusable, safe, and eco-friendly alternatives exist.

Why Paper Towels and Air Fryers Are a Hot Topic

Let’s be honest—air fryers have become the kitchen MVP in so many homes. Whether you’re reheating leftover pizza, making crispy fries, or even baking cookies, they’re fast, convenient, and deliver that golden crunch we all love. But with great convenience comes a few questions—especially when it comes to cleanup and safety. One of the most common questions I get from friends and family (and honestly, one I asked myself when I first got my air fryer) is: can you put paper towels in an air fryer?

At first glance, it seems like a smart idea. Paper towels absorb grease, prevent splatter, and make cleanup easier. I’ve caught myself thinking, “Why not just lay a towel at the bottom to catch drips?” But here’s the catch: air fryers work differently than traditional ovens or microwaves. They rely on rapid, high-speed hot air circulation to cook food evenly. Introduce a foreign object like a paper towel, and you might be risking more than just a soggy fry—you could be inviting a fire hazard. In this post, we’ll dive deep into the science, safety, and smarter alternatives so you can use your air fryer with confidence.

The Science Behind Air Fryer Cooking and Paper Towels

How Air Fryers Work

Before we answer the question “can you put paper towels in an air fryer,” let’s understand how these appliances actually function. Unlike conventional ovens that heat food from the outside in using radiant heat, air fryers use a powerful convection system. A heating element warms the air, and a high-speed fan circulates it rapidly around the food. This creates a crisp, fried-like texture without submerging food in oil.

Think of it like a mini turbo oven. The basket or tray allows air to flow through and around the food from all angles. That’s why foods like chicken wings or mozzarella sticks come out so evenly crispy. But this also means anything obstructing airflow—like a paper towel stuck to the bottom—can disrupt the cooking process. Worse, if the towel gets too close to the heating element, it could ignite.

Why Paper Towels Are Problematic

Paper towels are made from wood pulp, which is highly flammable. Even the most absorbent brand can catch fire when exposed to high heat (typically over 450°F or 232°C). Most air fryers operate between 300°F and 400°F, but the heating element itself can get significantly hotter—sometimes exceeding 600°F. A paper towel, especially if it’s touching or near the element, can smolder or burst into flames.

I remember one night, a friend tried placing a paper towel under some bacon in her air fryer to catch grease. The bacon dripped fat onto the towel, which then caught fire. She said the smoke alarm went off, and she had to unplug the unit and open all the windows. “I thought I was being smart,” she told me. “Turns out I was being reckless.” That story stuck with me—and it’s exactly why we need to treat this question seriously.

Additionally, paper towels can block airflow. If you place one at the bottom of the basket, it can prevent hot air from circulating properly. This leads to uneven cooking—some parts of your food may be overcooked while others stay underdone. And if the towel shifts during cooking, it might get sucked into the fan or touch the heating coil, creating a dangerous situation.

Safety Risks of Putting Paper Towels in an Air Fryer

Fire Hazards and Smoke

The biggest danger of putting paper towels in an air fryer is fire. Even if the towel doesn’t ignite immediately, it can begin to smoke, producing a strong, unpleasant odor. This smoke not only ruins the taste of your food but can also set off smoke detectors—especially if you’re cooking at high temperatures.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), cooking equipment is the leading cause of home fires, and unattended cooking is a major contributor. Adding flammable materials like paper towels increases that risk. In fact, many air fryer manufacturers—like Philips, Ninja, and Cosori—explicitly warn against using paper towels in their user manuals.

One user on a popular cooking forum shared that her air fryer caught fire after she used a paper towel to line the bottom. “It started smoking, then flames shot up,” she wrote. “I had to use a fire extinguisher. The unit was ruined, and I’m lucky my kitchen wasn’t damaged.”

Damage to the Appliance

Beyond fire, paper towels can damage your air fryer. When they burn, they leave behind ash and residue that’s hard to clean. This buildup can corrode the heating element over time or clog the fan, reducing efficiency and lifespan. I’ve seen air fryers with blackened baskets and sticky interiors—all from burnt paper towels.

Also, some paper towels contain dyes, fragrances, or chemicals that can release toxic fumes when heated. These aren’t meant to be exposed to high temperatures, and inhaling them isn’t safe. Even “unbleached” or “eco-friendly” towels aren’t designed for direct heat exposure in appliances.

Lastly, if a paper towel gets stuck in the fan, it can cause the motor to overheat or fail. This often results in costly repairs or replacement. I once had to replace a $100 air fryer because a small piece of paper towel got lodged in the fan and melted. Not fun.

Common Misconceptions and What People Get Wrong

“It’s Just One Little Towel—What’s the Harm?”

Many people think, “It’s only a small piece—how bad could it be?” But even a single sheet can be dangerous. Air fryers create strong air currents. A loose paper towel can flutter, shift, or get sucked upward toward the heating element. It doesn’t take much for it to catch fire.

I’ve heard people say, “I’ve done it a hundred times and nothing happened.” And that’s the problem—it only takes one time. Just like driving without a seatbelt, the risk is cumulative. The more you do it, the higher the chance of a disaster.

“I’ve Seen It on TikTok or YouTube”

Social media is full of quick hacks, and “using paper towels in air fryers” is one of the most viral. I’ve seen videos where people lay a paper towel under salmon or chicken to absorb moisture. While it might look convenient, those videos often skip the risks or don’t show what happens when things go wrong.

Remember: just because something works in a 30-second clip doesn’t mean it’s safe. Many creators aren’t trained chefs or safety experts. They’re trying to go viral, not protect your kitchen. Always cross-check tips with manufacturer guidelines or trusted sources.

“It’s Like a Microwave—Why Would It Be Different?”

Some people assume air fryers are similar to microwaves, where paper towels are safe. But they’re fundamentally different. Microwaves heat food using radiation, not hot air. The interior stays relatively cool, and paper towels can safely absorb moisture without catching fire.

Air fryers, on the other hand, are more like mini convection ovens. The entire cooking chamber gets hot, and the fan creates turbulence. Paper towels don’t stand a chance. Think of it this way: you wouldn’t put a paper towel in a toaster oven, right? Same principle applies.

Safe and Effective Alternatives to Paper Towels

Use Parchment Paper (With Caution)

Good news: parchment paper is generally safe to use in air fryers—if you follow the rules. Unlike paper towels, parchment paper is heat-resistant and designed for high temperatures (up to 450°F or 232°C). It won’t catch fire or release toxic fumes.

Here’s how to use it safely:

• Cut the parchment to fit the basket, leaving space around the edges for air circulation.
• Make a few small holes or slits to allow airflow—this prevents steam buildup and ensures even cooking.
• Never let the paper touch the heating element or fan.
• Use only plain, uncoated parchment paper (no silicone-coated or flavored varieties).

I use parchment all the time for salmon, chicken breasts, or roasted veggies. It keeps food from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Just remember: it’s not a free pass. Always monitor the first few uses to make sure it’s not shifting or smoking.

Try Silicone Mats or Liners

Silicone air fryer liners are a fantastic alternative. They’re reusable, non-stick, and heat-resistant (usually up to 480°F). You can place them directly in the basket and wash them with soap and water afterward.

I have a set of silicone liners that I use almost daily. They’re especially helpful for sticky foods like marinated chicken or glazed tofu. They also prevent food from falling through the basket gaps. Just make sure the mat has holes or perforations—solid mats can block airflow.

Tip: Look for FDA-approved, BPA-free silicone. Avoid cheap knockoffs that might degrade over time.

Let the Air Fryer Do Its Job—No Liners Needed

Sometimes, the best solution is no solution at all. Many air fryers have non-stick baskets that work perfectly without any liner. For foods like fries, nuggets, or veggies, you can cook them directly on the basket. The circulating air lifts the food slightly, so it rarely sticks.

After cooking, simply wipe the basket with a damp cloth or wash it with warm, soapy water. Most are dishwasher-safe, too. I’ve found that using a light spray of oil (like avocado or olive oil) helps prevent sticking without needing a liner.

Bonus: cooking directly on the basket ensures maximum crispiness. Liners—even parchment—can trap steam, making food soggy. If you want that golden, crunchy texture, skip the liner and embrace the air fryer’s natural design.

Use a Drip Tray or Baking Sheet (for Reheating)

If you’re reheating greasy foods (like leftover pizza or fried chicken), consider using a small baking sheet or drip tray on the bottom rack. This catches drips without blocking airflow. Just make sure it’s oven-safe and doesn’t touch the heating element.

I keep a small, rimmed baking sheet in my air fryer drawer. When I reheat pizza, I place it on the sheet. The grease pools at the edges, and the pizza stays crispy on top. Easy, safe, and effective.

Best Practices for Grease Management and Cleanup

Prevent Grease Buildup Before It Starts

Instead of trying to absorb grease with paper towels, focus on preventing it from becoming a problem. Here are a few tips:

• Trim excess fat from meats before cooking.
• Use leaner cuts or marinate in oil-based sauces to reduce dripping.
• Place a wire rack in the basket to elevate food—this lets grease drip away while allowing air to circulate underneath.
• Pat foods dry before placing them in the air fryer (especially frozen items). Excess moisture can cause splattering.

I use a wire rack for chicken wings and bacon. The grease drips down into the basket, but the food stays elevated and crispy. It’s a game-changer.

Clean Your Air Fryer Regularly

A clean air fryer performs better and lasts longer. After each use:

• Let the unit cool completely.
• Remove the basket and tray. Wash with warm, soapy water or place in the dishwasher (if safe).
• Wipe the interior with a damp cloth. Avoid abrasive scrubbers that can damage non-stick coatings.
• For stubborn grease, use a paste of baking soda and water. Scrub gently, then rinse.

I clean my air fryer after every 3-4 uses. It only takes 5 minutes, and it keeps everything running smoothly. A little maintenance goes a long way.

When to Use Oil (and When to Skip It)

Some foods need oil for crispiness; others don’t. For example:

• Frozen fries or chicken tenders: usually don’t need extra oil.
• Homemade sweet potato fries or veggies: benefit from a light spray.
• Lean meats: may need a brush of oil to prevent drying out.

Using the right amount of oil reduces grease buildup and improves texture. A spray bottle with olive or avocado oil is perfect—just a few spritzes are enough.

Data Table: Safe vs. Unsafe Materials for Air Fryers

Material	Safe for Air Fryer?	Max Temperature	Notes
Paper Towels	No	~450°F (flammable)	High fire risk; never use
Parchment Paper	Yes (with holes)	450°F	Must not touch heating element
Silicone Liners	Yes	480°F	Reusable; ensure airflow holes
Aluminum Foil	Yes (with caution)	500°F	Do not cover fan or heating element
Wax Paper	No	~250°F (melts)	Melts and releases fumes
Non-Stick Baking Mat	Yes	500°F	Ensure it’s oven-safe and perforated

Final Thoughts: Can You Put Paper Towels in an Air Fryer?

So, can you put paper towels in an air fryer? The short answer is no—and for very good reasons. The risks of fire, smoke, appliance damage, and toxic fumes far outweigh any perceived convenience. While it might seem like a quick fix for grease or mess, it’s a shortcut that can lead to serious consequences.

But that doesn’t mean you’re out of options. Parchment paper (used correctly), silicone liners, wire racks, and proper cleaning routines offer safe, effective ways to manage grease and keep your air fryer in top shape. The key is understanding how your appliance works and respecting its design.

I’ve learned this the hard way—through burnt towels, smoke alarms, and a few close calls. Now, I treat my air fryer like the powerful, precise tool it is. I use it with care, and in return, it gives me crispy, delicious meals without drama.

Remember: cooking should be fun, not dangerous. Skip the paper towels. Embrace the alternatives. And enjoy your air fryer the way it was meant to be used—safely, efficiently, and deliciously. Your kitchen (and your taste buds) will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you put paper towels in an air fryer safely?

No, you should never put paper towels directly in an air fryer during cooking. The high heat and rapid airflow can cause the paper to ignite or blow into the heating element, creating a fire hazard. Only use paper towels to pat food dry *before* placing it in the basket.

Why do people wonder if they can use paper towels in an air fryer?

Many want to reduce oil splatter or absorb excess grease during cooking, but air fryers rely on unrestricted airflow for even cooking. Instead, use a small piece of parchment paper designed for air fryers or lightly oil the basket to prevent sticking without blocking airflow.

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

Opt for air fryer-safe parchment paper liners or reusable silicone mats. These options absorb grease and prevent sticking without risking fire hazards. Always ensure they’re cut to fit the basket and won’t cover the air vents.

Can paper towels damage my air fryer?

Yes, paper towels can cause serious damage. Loose fibers may get sucked into the heating element, leading to smoke, sparks, or even a fire. Always avoid placing them inside the cooking chamber while the appliance is in use.

Is it safe to use paper towels to clean an air fryer?

Yes, but only when the air fryer is completely cool and unplugged. Use damp paper towels to wipe the interior or exterior surfaces for quick cleaning. Never use them during or immediately after cooking due to heat risks.

Can you put paper towels under the air fryer basket to catch drips?

No, even placing paper towels under the basket can block airflow and cause overheating. The air fryer’s design requires proper ventilation. If drips are a concern, cook fatty foods on a rack or use a liner approved for air fryers.