Clean your air fryer after every single use, even if the basket looks spotless. That means washing the basket and tray with warm soapy water once the unit has cooled, plus a deeper clean of the heating element area about once a week if you cook daily. How often should you clean an air fryer in practice depends on how much you use it and what you cook, but the post-cooking wipe is the baseline that stops grease from ever building up.
For a thorough cleaning of that heating area, check out our detailed guide on maintaining the heating element.
Pros
- Exceptionally fast preheating and even heat distribution thanks to graphene technology
- Large capacity fits family-sized meals while maintaining a compact countertop footprint
- Enamel interior makes cleanup effortless compared to bare stainless steel interiors
- Versatile cooking modes replace multiple appliances, saving counter space and time
Cons
- Control panel may require a learning curve; not immediately intuitive for all users
- Customer service has been reported as difficult to reach, and the manual lacks detailed instructions
- Some users note that the exterior can get hot during operation, requiring caution
The Midea Flexify Pro French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven is a premium countertop appliance designed for home cooks who want speed, versatility, and elegance. With a 26.4-quart capacity and graphene rapid-heat technology, it preheats to 350°F in just 2 minutes, making it ideal for busy families, couples, or anyone who values efficient meal preparation. Its 10 cooking functions plus 4 specialty modes, including a dedicated Pizza Mode with four crust options, allow you to air fry, roast, bake, broil, toast, dehydrate, slow cook, reheat, and warm with precision.
In real-world use, the Flexify Pro delivers consistently crispy and juicy results. The XpressFry Air Fry Mode combines graphene heating with a top turbo fan to circulate hot air evenly, using up to 90% less oil than traditional frying. Users praise its ability to cook a whole chicken, bake a 12-inch pizza, or toast six slices of bread without hot spots. The enamel-coated interior is a standout feature: grease and food residue wipe away effortlessly, a huge upgrade over standard stainless steel ovens that require heavy scrubbing.
Design-wise, the French doors open smoothly with one hand and add a stylish touch to any kitchen. The stainless steel finish, LED display, and dial control give it a modern, premium look. However, the controls are not immediately intuitive; some users report a learning curve to navigate the various functions and settings. The oven also gets warm on the exterior during use, so keep it away from heat-sensitive surfaces.
Potential drawbacks include limited customer support and a sparse manual. A few buyers noted difficulty contacting Midea for help, and the instruction booklet could be more detailed. Additionally, the 1750-watt power draw means it may need a dedicated outlet if used with other high-wattage appliances. Despite these issues, the overall build quality and performance are strong, with most reviews highlighting the ease of cleaning and cooking versatility.
Verdict: The Midea Flexify Pro is an excellent investment for anyone seeking a do-it-all countertop oven that saves time and reduces oil usage. Its graphene heating, large capacity, and easy-clean interior outweigh the minor control quirks. If you can tolerate a short learning curve and don't rely heavily on customer service, this oven will reward you with delicious, healthy meals for years to come.
Pros
- Spacious XL capacity with compact footprint maximizes counter space efficiency
- Rapid Air technology delivers consistently crispy results with minimal oil required
- Intuitive digital interface with 7 presets makes cooking accessible for all skill levels
- Dishwasher-safe components save significant cleanup time compared to traditional fryers
- 1-year warranty provides peace of mind and customer support
Cons
- Higher price point compared to basic air fryer models with fewer features
- Learning curve required to optimize results with the app and various preset functions
The Philips Essential Airfryer XL is a premium countertop cooking solution designed for health-conscious families and home cooks who want to reduce oil consumption without sacrificing taste or texture. This 6.2-liter capacity model represents over a decade of Philips airfryer innovation, combining advanced heating technology with user-friendly controls to deliver restaurant-quality results at home.
The standout feature is the patented starfish design, which creates optimal air circulation patterns that ensure every piece of food receives consistent, circulating heat. This results in crispy exteriors and tender interiors while using up to 90% less fat than traditional deep-frying. With 7 digital presets and a dedicated keep-warm function, the guesswork is removed from cooking, making it accessible whether you're preparing frozen fries or a full roasted chicken.
Beyond frying, this versatile appliance grills, roasts, bakes, and reheats, making it a genuine multi-function kitchen tool. The large XL capacity accommodates up to 5 portions simultaneously, ideal for family dinners or batch meal prep. The compact footprint minimizes wasted counter space, and the 2000W power ensures efficient cooking performance.
Maintenance is refreshingly simple, with all removable parts being dishwasher safe and a non-stick QuickClean basket that requires minimal scrubbing. The included Philips Kitchen app unlocks hundreds of recipes and advanced cooking features, helping users maximize the appliance's potential. The 1-year warranty provides reassurance on this investment.
The main consideration is the higher upfront cost compared to basic models, though the versatility, capacity, and proven performance justify the investment for serious home cooks. This airfryer excels for families seeking healthier cooking methods without compromising on convenience or results.
Capacity: 2.65 lb / 6.2 liters, serves up to 5 portions
Power: 2000W
Digital Presets: 7 pre-programmed cooking modes
Key Features: Rapid Air technology, starfish design, keep-warm function, instant-on (no preheating required)
Functions: Fry, grill, roast, bake, reheat
Control: Digital touch screen
Cleaning: All removable parts dishwasher safe, non-stick QuickClean basket
Warranty: 1-year manufacturer warranty
App Integration: Philips Kitchen app with 100+ recipes and cooking guides
Model: HD9270/91
Who Should Buy This? The Philips Essential Airfryer XL is ideal for families of 4 or more, health-conscious cooks seeking reduced-fat cooking methods, and anyone wanting a versatile appliance that replaces multiple kitchen tools. It suits both beginners and experienced home cooks.
Best Use Cases: Daily meal preparation, family dinners, batch cooking for meal prep, entertaining guests, and anyone wanting healthier versions of fried foods without sacrificing taste or texture.
Comparison Considerations: If you have limited counter space or cook for 1-2 people, consider the smaller Essential models with 4.1L capacity. If you need advanced fat-removal technology, the HD9630/28 model offers that feature. This XL model balances capacity, power, and features at a competitive price point.
Setup and Learning: Expect a brief learning period to master the 7 presets and discover optimal temperatures for different foods. The Philips Kitchen app accelerates this learning curve by providing guided recipes and cooking tips tailored to your appliance.
Pros
- Clear viewing window allows monitoring without heat loss or interruption.
- Large square capacity fits more food than traditional round air fryers.
- Dishwasher-safe nonstick basket makes cleanup quick and easy.
- 12 one-touch presets and intuitive touch controls simplify cooking for all skill levels.
- Safe nontoxic materials provide peace of mind for family meals.
Cons
- Plastic interior components may not be as durable as metal alternatives.
- The fairy pink color may not match all kitchen decors.
- Saucy foods like hot pockets may splatter; use caution with high-moisture items.
The Sweetcrispy 6-quart air fryer is a versatile and stylish addition to any kitchen, especially for families or beginners looking to cook healthier meals with ease. Its square basket design offers more usable space than traditional round models, fitting a whole chicken or up to six servings in one batch.
One standout feature is the built-in viewing window, which lets you monitor your food without opening the fryer, helping maintain consistent temperature and crispy results. The rapid air circulation technology reaches 400°F quickly, and the 12 one-touch presets simplify cooking for everything from fries to baked goods.
The fairy pink finish is both attractive and subtle, and the nonstick basket is dishwasher safe for effortless cleanup. Safety is also a priority, as the unit is made from nontoxic materials, giving you peace of mind.
Potential drawbacks include the plastic interior, which may not be as long-lasting as metal, and the pink color may not suit every kitchen. Also, very saucy foods might splatter, so use caution. However, these are minor compared to the overall value and performance.
Overall, the Sweetcrispy air fryer delivers excellent results, easy operation, and a great design at a competitive price point. It is highly recommended for anyone wanting a reliable, family-sized air fryer with a view.
Pros
- Clear viewing window maintains temperature consistency and reduces guesswork during cooking
- Square basket design provides significantly more usable cooking space than traditional round air fryers
- Comprehensive 12-preset selection covers most common foods for quick, convenient meal prep
- Dishwasher-safe components save substantial time on cleanup and maintenance
- Nontoxic construction gives peace of mind for health-conscious families
Cons
- 6QT capacity, while generous, may still require multiple batches for larger gatherings
- Square design takes up more counter space than compact round models
The Sweetcrispy 6QT air fryer is a family-focused kitchen appliance designed for households seeking faster, healthier cooking without excessive cleanup. It combines practical features like a viewing window, large capacity, and multiple presets to appeal to both beginners and experienced home cooks looking to incorporate more air-fried meals into their routines.
The standout features deliver real-world convenience. The built-in viewing window eliminates the temptation to open the door mid-cooking, which helps maintain stable temperatures and consistent browning. The square basket design maximizes usable space compared to round competitors, fitting whole chickens or 4-6 servings in a single batch. The 12 one-touch presets cover everyday foods from fries to fish, reducing the learning curve for newcomers.
Build quality reflects the value proposition. Nontoxic materials and a nonstick basket address health and safety concerns, while the dishwasher-safe design cuts cleanup time dramatically. The stylish off-white finish suits modern kitchens without appearing bulky or industrial.
Potential drawbacks center on space. The 6QT capacity, though generous, may require multiple batches for large families or meal prep sessions. The square footprint also demands more counter real estate than compact round models, making it less ideal for tight kitchens.
Overall, the Sweetcrispy 6QT air fryer delivers solid value for families prioritizing convenience, safety, and cooking capacity. It excels at everyday cooking tasks and simplifies cleanup, making it a practical choice for households ready to embrace air-frying as a regular cooking method.
Capacity: 6.34 quarts with square basket design
Temperature Range: Up to 400°F with rapid air crispy technology
Cooking Presets: 12 one-touch programs including fries, chicken, fish, vegetables, roast, bake, and dehydrate
Materials: Nontoxic, food-safe construction throughout
Basket: Nonstick, dishwasher-safe basket and accessories
Design: Clear viewing window, off-white finish, intuitive controls
Preheat Time: Minutes to ready state
Pros
- Significantly faster cooking times save 30-50% on meal prep compared to conventional ovens
- Large flat design accommodates family-sized portions and specialty items like 12-inch pizzas without compromise
- Remarkably quiet operation at 50dB makes it perfect for open-concept kitchens and apartments
- Dual heating with 360-degree air circulation ensures even cooking without manual flipping or repositioning
- Compact footprint slides into cabinets and small kitchens while delivering full-size cooking performance
Cons
- Larger capacity means higher upfront cost compared to smaller 4-5QT models
- Flat design may require learning optimal food arrangement for maximum cooking efficiency
- Limited information on long-term durability and warranty coverage from available product data
The EDENPEER 11-in-1 air fryer is a family-sized cooking powerhouse designed for busy households seeking faster meal preparation without sacrificing quality or convenience. With its generous 6QT capacity and ability to fit a full 12-inch pizza, this appliance replaces multiple kitchen tools, making it ideal for families, meal preppers, and anyone tired of long cooking times.
The standout feature is the dual top and bottom heating technology that delivers 50% improved heat transfer efficiency and cooks meals up to 2x faster than conventional ovens. Real-world performance includes cooking 33 chicken wings in 14 minutes, two steaks in 8 minutes, and a full bag of bacon in 8 minutes. The 270-degree viewing window with interior lighting lets you monitor food without opening the basket, eliminating the guesswork while maintaining consistent heat. The 11 preset cooking modes handle everything from fresh and frozen pizzas to wings, steaks, fish, vegetables, and more with single-touch convenience.
Design and build quality reflect thoughtful engineering for everyday use. The flat, wide basket distributes heat more evenly than traditional round designs, while the whisper-quiet 50dB operation is genuinely impressive for an appliance this powerful. The nonstick, food-grade stainless steel interior resists wear, and the dishwasher-safe basket means cleanup takes seconds. Safety features include a cool-touch handle and stable non-slip base, while the slim profile fits easily into cabinets without sacrificing counter appeal.
The primary drawback is the higher price point compared to smaller models, though the capacity and performance justify the investment for families. The flat design requires slight learning on optimal food arrangement, but the 270-degree window and preset modes minimize trial and error. Some users may question long-term durability, though the stainless steel construction and dual heating system suggest solid longevity.
Final verdict: The EDENPEER 6QT air fryer is an excellent choice for families prioritizing speed, capacity, and quiet operation. If you cook for multiple people, meal prep regularly, or want to replace your oven and microwave with one versatile appliance, this model delivers exceptional value and performance.
Capacity: 6 Quarts with flat, wide basket design
Heating Technology: Dual top and bottom heating with 360-degree rapid air circulation
Temperature Range: Up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit with adjustable settings
Cooking Presets: 11 modes including pizza, steak, wings, fish, bacon, vegetables, dehydrate, reheat, and more
Viewing Window: 270-degree panoramic window with interior lighting
Noise Level: 50dB ultra-quiet operation
Interior Material: Food-grade stainless steel with nonstick coating
Cleaning: Dishwasher-safe basket and cooking tray
Safety Features: Cool-touch handle, stable non-slip base, built-in safety design
Design: Compact, slim profile fits standard kitchen cabinets and countertops
Who Should Buy This Air Fryer: Families of 4 or more, meal preppers, apartment dwellers needing quiet appliances, and anyone wanting to replace multiple kitchen tools with one versatile device.
When to Consider Alternatives: Single users or couples may find the 6QT capacity overkill and prefer smaller 4-5QT models. Those on tight budgets should compare against mid-range 5QT options.
Key Questions to Ask Yourself: Do you cook for a family or entertain regularly? Do you need a quiet appliance for open kitchens or apartments? Are you willing to invest in a premium model for 2x faster cooking and 11 preset modes? If yes to these, this model is worth the investment.
Money-Saving Tip: Use the 11 preset modes and 270-degree window to eliminate trial-and-error cooking, reducing wasted ingredients and energy. The dual heating cuts cooking time dramatically, lowering electricity costs compared to conventional ovens.
If you use your air fryer daily, a quick wash after every meal is non-negotiable. Leftover oil and food particles bake onto the basket during the next cook, turning a two minute rinse into a twenty minute scrub.
If you only air fry a few times a month, you can still clean after each use, but the deep cleaning schedule stretches out. The key is matching your routine to how fast grease actually accumulates in your machine.
What You Cook Changes the Cleaning Schedule
Fatty foods like bacon, chicken thighs, and marinated meats splatter oil onto the basket and the heating element. After those cooks, you may need to wipe the interior right away, not just wash the basket.
Dry foods like frozen fries, roasted vegetables, and breaded items leave mostly crumbs and light residue. Those still need a basket wash, but the deep clean can wait a little longer.
Signs Your Air Fryer Needs Cleaning Right Now
Smoke drifting out during cooking is the most obvious warning sign. It usually means oil and food residue on the heating element are burning off at high temperature.
A stale or oily smell, food that sticks more than usual, and visible grease in the basket all point the same way. When you notice any of these, clean the air fryer before your next cook, not after.
Quick Cleaning vs Deep Cleaning: Two Different Schedules
A quick clean is the basket and tray wash you do after each use. A deep clean is the weekly or biweekly job that includes wiping the heating element, checking the crumb tray, and cleaning the exterior.
Some models also have a small filter that collects grease and odors. Check your manual for how often that filter needs attention, since it is easy to forget and hard to notice when it is clogged. A clogged filter can also make the air fryer louder and less efficient.
What Happens If You Skip Cleaning Too Long
Old grease does more than look unappealing. It smokes during cooking, gives food a stale flavor, and restricts airflow, which makes your food cook unevenly.
In extreme cases, heavy grease buildup near the heating element is a fire risk. Cleaning regularly also protects the nonstick coating, since baked-on residue gets harder to remove the longer it sits. A few minutes of prevention saves you from a much longer scrubbing session later.
How to Build a Cleaning Routine That Sticks
- Wash the basket and tray with warm soapy water after every use once the unit has cooled.
- Do a weekly deep clean of the heating element and interior if you cook daily.
- Clean right after cooking fatty or heavily marinated foods, not later.
- Use parchment liners to reduce residue, but never cover the whole basket and block airflow.
- Treat smoke or a strong smell as a signal to clean sooner, not as normal behavior.
If your air fryer is older and the buildup has become impossible to remove, you may be weighing whether to keep cleaning it or replace it. The air fryer guides on this site can help you compare your options before you make that call.
If you would rather spot buildup before it becomes a chore, our picks for glass air fryers give you a clear view of the cooking chamber.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you put an air fryer basket in the dishwasher?
Most baskets and trays are dishwasher safe, but check your manual first. The nonstick coating can wear down faster in a dishwasher, so hand washing with warm soapy water is gentler and usually enough for daily cleaning. If you do use the dishwasher, place the basket on the top rack.
How do you clean a burnt air fryer basket?
Fill the basket with warm water and a few drops of dish soap, then let it soak for 15 to 20 minutes. Scrub with a soft sponge or nylon brush afterward. Avoid steel wool and abrasive pads, which scratch the nonstick coating and make future cleaning harder.
Do you need to clean the heating element in an air fryer?
Yes, but less often than the basket. Wipe the heating element and the surrounding interior gently with a damp cloth every few weeks, depending on how much you cook. Make sure the air fryer is unplugged and completely cool before you touch that area.
Is it safe to use an air fryer with old grease buildup?
It is not a good idea. Old grease can smoke, give food a stale taste, and reduce airflow, which makes cooking less even. In extreme cases, built-up grease near the heating element is a fire risk, so clean it as soon as you notice smoke or a strong oily smell.
The short answer is that a quick clean after every use and a deeper clean once a week keeps most air fryers safe and working well. Stick to that routine and your air fryer will cook more evenly, smell fresher, and last longer.
