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

Yes, you can safely put steel in an air fryer—but only if it’s oven-safe and designed for high heat. Avoid non-stick or coated steel containers, as they can release harmful fumes; instead, use stainless steel bowls or pans that fit without touching the heating element. Always check manufacturer guidelines to prevent damage or safety hazards.

Key Takeaways

• Never use steel bowls: They can damage the air fryer basket and cause sparks.
• Opt for air fryer-safe metal: Use only accessories labeled as compatible with air fryers.
• Avoid thin steel containers: They may warp or melt under high heat.
• Check manufacturer guidelines: Confirm which metals are safe for your specific model.
• Use parchment paper: Prevents steel-on-basket contact while allowing airflow.
• Prioritize stainless steel racks: Only if designed for air fryer use and properly placed.

Can You Put Steel in Air Fryer? The Truth Behind Metal and Air Frying

Let’s be real—air fryers have taken over our kitchens. From crispy fries to juicy chicken wings, they promise the taste of deep frying without the guilt (or the mess). But as we get more adventurous with our cooking, one question keeps popping up: Can you put steel in air fryer? Maybe you’re thinking of using a stainless steel bowl, a metal rack, or even a steel baking pan to elevate your dishes. After all, steel is durable, heat-resistant, and looks great on the countertop. But before you toss that metal into your air fryer, let’s pause and take a breath.

I remember the first time I tried to use a stainless steel bowl in my air fryer. I was making garlic butter shrimp and wanted to keep the sauce contained. It seemed harmless—steel is used in ovens all the time, right? Well, let’s just say the result was a mix of sparks, a smoky kitchen, and a very confused cat. That moment taught me that not all metal is created equal when it comes to air frying. And it’s not just about sparks—there’s a whole world of safety, performance, and long-term appliance health to consider. In this guide, we’ll dive into whether steel is safe for your air fryer, what types work best, and how to avoid turning your kitchen into a science experiment.

Understanding How Air Fryers Work: Why Metal Matters

The Science Behind Rapid Air Circulation

Air fryers don’t actually fry food—they bake it using a powerful convection system. A heating element warms the air, and a high-speed fan circulates that hot air around your food at lightning speed. This rapid airflow creates a crispy exterior, mimicking the texture of deep-fried food. Think of it like a mini oven with a turbo boost. Because the air moves so quickly, every surface inside the cooking basket is exposed to intense, focused heat and airflow.

This is where metal comes into play. Unlike traditional ovens, where air moves more slowly and heat is more evenly distributed, air fryers create localized hot spots. When you place certain types of metal inside, it can disrupt airflow, reflect heat unpredictably, or even cause electrical arcing—especially if the metal is too close to the heating element or fan.

Why Not All Metal Is Created Equal

Here’s the thing: some metals are safe in air fryers, and others are a big no-no. The key lies in the thickness, shape, and proximity to the heating element. Thin, lightweight metal—like foil or flimsy steel bowls—can warp, flutter in the airflow, or even touch the heating coil. That’s a fire hazard waiting to happen.

On the other hand, thick, sturdy steel (like a solid stainless steel rack or a properly designed air fryer accessory) can actually improve cooking performance. It helps elevate food, allowing air to circulate underneath, which leads to more even browning. But it has to be the right kind of steel, placed in the right way.

Real-World Example: The Foil Fiasco

Let’s talk about a common mistake. Many people wrap food in aluminum foil and pop it into the air fryer basket. While foil is technically metal, it’s thin and can easily lift into the fan or touch the heating element. I once tried to make foil-wrapped potatoes—great idea in theory, disaster in practice. The foil fluttered upward, touched the heating coil, and started smoking. I had to unplug the unit immediately. That’s why most manufacturers warn against loose or crumpled foil.

The lesson? Just because something is metal doesn’t mean it’s safe. And just because it’s steel doesn’t mean it’s immune to problems. It’s all about how and where you use it.

Types of Steel You Can (and Can’t) Use in Your Air Fryer

✅ Safe: Stainless Steel Racks and Baking Pans (With Conditions)

Good news: stainless steel is generally safe in air fryers, but only when used correctly. Thick, flat stainless steel racks or baking pans designed for air fryers are excellent choices. These are often included with high-end models or sold as accessories. They’re sturdy, don’t warp easily, and are designed to sit securely in the basket without touching the heating element.

For example, a stainless steel air fryer rack with legs (like the ones from Instant Pot or Ninja) lifts your food off the bottom, promoting even cooking. I use one to make crispy chicken tenders—no flipping needed. Just place it on the basket’s base, and you’re good to go.

Pro Tip: Look for racks or pans that are non-stick coated stainless steel. This helps prevent food from sticking and makes cleanup easier. Avoid anything with plastic or wooden handles—those aren’t heat-safe.

❌ Not Safe: Thin Steel Bowls, Muffin Tins, or DIY Setups

Here’s where things go sideways. Thin steel bowls, muffin tins, or makeshift setups might seem like smart hacks, but they’re risky. A lightweight steel bowl can tip over, wobble, or even be lifted by the powerful airflow. If it touches the heating element, you risk sparks, smoke, or a melted mess.

I once tried using a small stainless steel mixing bowl to hold a sauce while cooking salmon. The bowl was too light—it shifted during cooking and brushed against the heating coil. The result? A loud pop, a burning smell, and a very nervous dog. Not worth it.

Another no-go: repurposing oven-safe steel pans not designed for air fryers. Even if they’re oven-safe at 400°F, air fryers circulate air more aggressively. A pan that fits in your oven might be too tall or wide for the air fryer, blocking airflow or touching the heating element.

⚠️ Caution: Steel with Mixed Materials or Decorative Coatings

Some steel accessories come with enamel coatings, colored finishes, or decorative plating. These might look nice, but they’re a gamble. High heat can cause coatings to chip, release fumes, or react with food. Enamel, for instance, can crack under rapid temperature changes.

Stick to plain, uncoated stainless steel (grade 304 or higher) with no added finishes. If you’re unsure, check the manufacturer’s specs. If it says “not for air fryer use,” believe it.

Bonus: Can You Use Cast Iron in an Air Fryer?

Cast iron is technically steel (well, iron with carbon), but it’s a special case. While it’s heat-safe, it’s heavy and can scratch the non-stick coating on most air fryer baskets. Plus, it retains heat so well that it can create uneven cooking zones. If you must use cast iron, place it on a stainless steel rack or trivet to protect the basket. But honestly, it’s better suited for stovetop or oven use.

Safety Risks of Using the Wrong Steel in Your Air Fryer

Electrical Arcing and Sparks

This is the scariest risk—and the one I experienced firsthand. When metal (especially thin or jagged metal) comes too close to the heating element, it can cause electrical arcing. That’s when electricity jumps from the coil to the metal, creating sparks, smoke, or even small flames. It’s like lightning in your kitchen.

Sparks aren’t just scary—they can damage the heating element, melt internal components, or void your warranty. Some air fryers have safety shut-offs that kick in when arcing is detected, but not all models do. Once the damage is done, repairs are expensive or impossible.

Fire Hazard and Smoke

Even if you don’t get sparks, improper metal use can still start a fire. Grease or food residue on metal can overheat and ignite, especially if the metal is too close to the heating coil. I’ve seen videos of people using metal skewers that caught fire—yikes.

Smoke is another red flag. If your air fryer starts smoking, unplug it immediately and ventilate the area. Smoke can be toxic, especially if it comes from melting plastic or burning metal coatings.

Damage to the Air Fryer Basket and Coating

Most air fryer baskets have a non-stick coating (often PTFE or ceramic). Steel, especially if it’s rough or has sharp edges, can scratch this coating over time. Once the coating is damaged, food sticks more easily, and the basket becomes harder to clean. Worse, some non-stick coatings can release harmful fumes when overheated—especially if they’re scratched and food residue gets trapped underneath.

Using a steel rack with rubber or silicone feet (if designed for it) can help protect the basket. But if the steel is bare and heavy, it’s going to cause wear and tear.

Uneven Cooking and Hot Spots

Even if your steel setup doesn’t cause a fire, it might ruin your meal. Metal conducts heat quickly, creating hot spots. If your steel rack isn’t perfectly flat or evenly sized, it can block airflow, leading to undercooked or burnt food.

For example, a steel pan with a warped bottom might sit too close to the heating element on one side, scorching your food, while the other side stays undercooked. Not exactly the crispy perfection you were hoping for.

Best Practices for Using Steel in Your Air Fryer

1. Use Manufacturer-Recommended Accessories

The safest way to use steel? Stick with accessories made by your air fryer’s brand. Companies like Ninja, Cosori, and Philips sell stainless steel racks, pans, and skewers designed specifically for their models. These are tested for safety, airflow, and heat resistance.

For example, the Ninja Air Fryer Steel Crisper Plate is a flat, perforated steel tray that sits perfectly in the basket. It elevates food, promotes airflow, and cleans up easily. No guesswork, no risk.

2. Measure Before You Place

Before using any steel item, measure it against your air fryer basket. The steel should:

• Fit securely without wobbling
• Leave at least 1 inch of clearance from the heating element (usually at the top or back)
• Not block the fan or airflow vents
• Be at least 1/8 inch thick (to prevent warping)

I keep a small ruler in my kitchen drawer just for this. It’s saved me from a few close calls.

3. Elevate, Don’t Encase

Use steel to elevate food, not to trap it. A rack or tray lets air flow around all sides. Avoid covering food completely with a steel bowl or lid—unless it’s designed for steaming (and even then, check the manual).

For example, I use a steel rack to cook bacon—no splatter, no flipping, just perfect crispiness. But I never use a steel bowl to cover a burger, because it would steam instead of crisp.

4. Avoid Mixing Metals

Don’t combine steel with other conductive materials like aluminum foil or copper. Mixed metals can create galvanic reactions under heat, leading to corrosion or strange flavors. Stick to one type of metal per cooking session.

5. Clean and Inspect Regularly

After using steel, clean it thoroughly to remove grease and food residue. Grease buildup can ignite at high temps. Also, inspect the steel for warping, cracks, or sharp edges. A damaged rack is a hazard waiting to happen.

I wash my steel rack in warm, soapy water after every use. Once a month, I give it a vinegar soak to remove mineral deposits. It’s simple, but it keeps it in top shape.

Recommended Steel Accessories: A Comparison Table

Accessory	Material	Best For	Pros	Cons	Price Range
Stainless Steel Crisper Plate	304 Stainless Steel	Elevating food, even cooking	Fits most baskets, promotes airflow, easy to clean	Can be pricey, not for all models	$15–$30
Multi-Layer Cooking Rack	Stainless Steel with Silicone Feet	Cooking multiple items at once	Stackable, protects basket, great for veggies	Takes up space, not for large items	$20–$35
Steel Skewers (Set of 6)	Stainless Steel, Flat Design	Kabobs, chicken, shrimp	Prevents spinning, easy to load	Requires basket with skewer holes	$10–$18
Steel Baking Pan (Round)	Heavy-Gauge Stainless Steel	Cakes, brownies, casseroles	Even heat, oven-safe	May block airflow if too wide	$25–$40
DIY Steel Trivet (Caution)	Repurposed Steel	Emergency use only	Free or cheap	Risk of warping, sparks, damage	$0–$10

Note: Always verify compatibility with your air fryer model before purchasing. DIY options should only be used as a last resort and with extreme caution.

Conclusion: Yes, You Can Use Steel—But Do It Wisely

So, can you put steel in air fryer? The short answer is: yes, but only the right kind, in the right way. Thick, sturdy stainless steel accessories designed for air frying are not only safe—they can improve your cooking results. They help elevate food, promote even browning, and make cleanup easier. But thin, flimsy, or repurposed steel? That’s a recipe for sparks, smoke, and a very unhappy kitchen.

The key is to prioritize safety over convenience. Stick to manufacturer-approved steel racks, measure everything before use, and never let metal touch the heating element. Remember my spark-filled shrimp incident? That was a wake-up call. Now, I only use steel accessories that are built for the job—and my air fryer has been running smoothly ever since.

Air fryers are powerful tools, and with great power comes great responsibility (yes, even in the kitchen). By understanding how metal interacts with rapid airflow and intense heat, you can enjoy all the crispy, delicious benefits of air frying—without the drama. So go ahead, grab that stainless steel rack, and cook with confidence. Just keep the science experiments for the backyard.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you put steel in an air fryer without damaging it?

Yes, you can put steel in an air fryer if it’s oven-safe and fits without touching the heating elements. Avoid thin or low-quality steel, as warping or overheating may occur due to rapid air circulation.

What types of steel cookware are air fryer-safe?

Oven-safe stainless steel bowls, pans, or baking sheets labeled as air fryer-safe are ideal. Ensure the steel is at least 18/8 or 18/10 grade to handle high heat and prevent corrosion.

Can you put steel in air fryer baskets or trays?

Yes, but always check the manufacturer’s guidelines first. Steel items should not block airflow or touch the heating element, as this can cause uneven cooking or damage.

Is it safe to use steel wool or scrubbers in an air fryer?

No, never use steel wool or metal scrubbers to clean your air fryer. They can scratch non-stick surfaces and create sparks, posing a fire hazard during operation.

Can putting steel in an air fryer cause a fire?

Fire risk is low with proper oven-safe steel, but avoid crumpled foil, lids with sharp edges, or steel that touches the heating element. Always monitor cooking to prevent overheating.

Does cooking with steel in an air fryer affect food taste?

High-quality stainless steel won’t alter taste, but lower-grade steel may leach metallic flavors. Stick to food-grade steel and avoid acidic foods in uncoated steel for best results.