Why Do Air Fryers Smell? Top 4 Reasons With Solutions!

Posted On June 14, 2023

Air fryers have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their ability to cook food with less oil, resulting in healthier and crispy meals. 

However, some users have reported unpleasant smells emanating from their air fryers during and after cooking. 

In this blog post, we will delve into the reasons behind the odors produced by air fryers and explore effective solutions to eliminate or minimize these smells. So, if you’ve ever wondered why do air fryers smell and how to tackle this issue, keep reading!

Why Do Air Fryers Smell?

Air fryers utilize a cooking method that circulates hot air around the food, creating a crispy texture similar to deep frying but with less oil. During the cooking process, various factors contribute to the production of smells:

Heating Element 

The heating element in an air fryer emits heat to cook the food. This heat can cause the release of odors from the food itself, especially when cooking items with strong natural aromas like fish or certain spices.

Grease and Oil 

Air fryers often require a small amount of oil or cooking spray to achieve the desired crispy golden brown texture. When this oil or grease comes into contact with the heating element, it burns and produces smells.

Food Residue 

Any leftover food particles or residue from previous cooking sessions can accumulate in the air fryer and become a source of odor. This is especially true if the appliance is not cleaned regularly.

Plastic Components 

Some air fryers have plastic components, such as the cooking basket or outer casing. When exposed to high temperatures, these plastic parts can emit a slight plastic smell.

Common Reasons for Air Fryer Odors

Now that we understand the science behind air fryer odors, let’s explore some specific reasons why your air fryer might emit unpleasant smells:

Air Fryer Smells Like Grease

If your air fryer smells like grease, there are a few possible explanations:

Solution: To address this issue, clean your air fryer thoroughly after each use. Remove the cooking basket, tray, and any other removable parts and wash them with warm soapy water. 

Wipe down the interior of the air fryer with a damp cloth or sponge. Regular cleaning will help prevent the buildup of grease and eliminate the associated smells.

Air Fryer Smells Like Chemicals

If you notice a chemical-like smell coming from your air fryer, it could be due to:

Solution: To eliminate chemical smells from your air fryer, try the following steps:

1. Before cooking, preheat the air fryer for a few minutes without any food. This can help burn off any residue or manufacturing oils that might be causing the chemical odor.

2. Ensure that the air fryer is placed in a well-ventilated area while cooking. Adequate airflow can help dissipate any lingering smells.

3. As mentioned earlier, regular cleaning is essential. If the chemical smell persists, try cleaning the air fryer more thoroughly, paying attention to hard-to-reach areas.

Air Fryer Smells Like Fish

If your air fryer emits a fishy smell, it could be attributed to:

Solution: Follow these steps to tackle the fishy odor:

1. Clean the air fryer thoroughly after each use, especially when cooking fish. Remove any residual food particles that may be causing the smell.

2. Place a small bowl filled with vinegar or lemon juice inside the air fryer and run it for a short period. The acidic properties of these substances can help neutralize fishy odors.

3. Consider using air fryer liners or parchment paper to create a barrier between the food and the cooking basket. This can help prevent the lingering fish smell.

Air Fryer Smells Weird or Bad

If your air fryer emits a strange or unpleasant odor that you can’t quite pinpoint, it could be due to:

Solution: Here’s what you can do to address weird or bad smells:

1. Inspect the air fryer for any leftover or spoiled food. Remove it and clean the appliance thoroughly.

2. If the odor persists and you’ve tried all the cleaning methods, consider contacting the manufacturer for further assistance. There may be an underlying issue with the air fryer that requires professional attention.

How to Remove Smell from Air Fryer

Regular Cleaning and Maintenance

Proper maintenance and cleaning practices are key to eliminating and preventing odors from your air fryer. Here are some tips for removing smells and keeping your air fryer fresh:

Clean After Each Use: Clean the air fryer thoroughly after every cooking session. Remove all removable parts and wash them with warm soapy water. Wipe down the interior with a damp cloth or sponge.

Remove Food Residue: Pay close attention to the cooking basket, tray, and heating element. Remove any stuck-on food particles or grease.

Clean with Vinegar Solution: Fill a small bowl with equal parts water and white vinegar. Place the bowl inside the air fryer and run it at a low temperature for 15-20 minutes. Vinegar’s acidic properties help neutralize odors.

Baking Soda Paste: As baking soda is an excellent natural deodorizer, create a paste using baking soda and water and apply the paste to any stained or greasy areas. Let it sit for a few minutes before wiping it clean. 

Dry Thoroughly: Ensure that all components of the air fryer are completely dry before reassembling and storing to prevent the growth of mold or mildew, which can cause unpleasant odors.

Additional Tips to Minimize Odors

Apart from regular cleaning, consider the following tips to minimize odors in your air fryer:

Cook with Proper Ventilation: Use your air fryer in a well-ventilated area or near a kitchen hood or exhaust fan. This helps remove any smells that might be released during the cooking process.

Avoid Overcrowding: Overcrowding the cooking basket can lead to uneven cooking and increased odors. Allow enough space between food items for proper air circulation.

Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheating the air fryer for a few minutes before cooking can help burn off any residue and reduce potential smells.

Cook Odorous Foods Outdoors: If you’re cooking particularly odorous foods like fish or strongly spiced dishes, consider using your air fryer outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. How often should I clean my air fryer?

It’s recommended to clean your air fryer after each use to prevent the buildup of odors and grease.

2. Can I use abrasive cleaners on my air fryer?

No, it’s best to avoid abrasive cleaners or scrubbing brushes that could damage the non-stick coating of your air fryer. Stick to gentle cleaning methods using warm soapy water or baking soda paste.

3. Why does my air fryer smell like chemicals?

If your air fryer emits a chemical smell, it’s likely due to the manufacturing process and will fade over time. Ensure you thoroughly clean your air fryer before initial use.

4. Can I use air fresheners or sprays to remove the smell?

It’s not recommended to use air fresheners or sprays directly inside the air fryer, as they can be flammable. Stick to natural deodorizing methods like vinegar or baking soda. 

On the other hand, you can use air fresheners in your kitchen to remove the pungent cooking smell. 

5. How long does it take for the smell to dissipate?

With proper cleaning and maintenance, any lingering smells should dissipate within a few cooking cycles.

6. Should I season or pre-treat my air fryer to prevent smells?

Seasoning or pre-treating the air fryer is not necessary, as modern air fryers usually come with a non-stick coating. Regular cleaning is sufficient to keep your air fryer odor-free.

To Sum Up

Air fryers are a fantastic addition to any kitchen, providing a healthier alternative to deep frying with crisp and delicious results. 

By following the cleaning and maintenance tips outlined in this article, you can easily remove and prevent odors from your air fryer, ensuring your cooking experience remains enjoyable and odor-free.

But if you’re experiencing persistent or unusual odors, consult the manufacturer for assistance. With regular care, your air fryer will continue to produce tasty and odorless meals, enhancing your culinary adventures. 

So, fire up your air fryer, embrace its versatility, and enjoy delicious and healthy meals without worrying about any lingering smells.