I Just Realized My Air Fryer Filter Is Way Past Due for a Change

After discovering that my microwave has a filter that needs regular replacement, I started wondering what other kitchen appliances might be getting ignored. Naturally, I thought of my air fryer and learned that some air fryers have filters that need frequent cleaning and replacing to keep them in top shape.

When was the last time you checked your air fryer filter? Did you even know it had one? Turns out, if the filter is dirty or blocked, it can affect airflow and reduce the efficiency of your air fryer. With air fryers being one of the most popular kitchen gadgets today, many of us (myself included) might have neglected our trusty appliances for too long. Here's how to give your air fryer the care it deserves!

The Importance of Cleaning and Maintaining Your Air Fryer

Over time, air fryers can gather food particles, grease, and oils from cooking, which impacts performance, lifespan, and safety. Many air fryers feature filters that should be regularly checked and cleaned since they can become clogged or filthy. Here are some issues you might face if you skip routine cleaning and filter replacements:

• Foodborne illness is no joke! Leaving food residue in your air fryer between uses can allow bacteria and viruses to grow and spread inside the machine—so you don’t want to mess around when it comes to cleaning kitchen appliances and tools properly between uses.
• One of the air fryer filter's function is to remove odors during cooking, helping to reduce stubborn, lingering cooking smells after you’re done in the kitchen.
• Like many kitchen appliances, the trusty air fryer can become a fire hazard if you don’t clean it regularly and allow build-up from small burnt bits of food and grease to accumulate.

How to Clean Your Air Fryer Filters

Fortunately, cleaning or replacing your air fryer filter is a simple task. If you've lost the original instructions, you can easily find the care guidelines for your air fryer online.

To clean the air fryer filter, simply remove it from the appliance, scrub it with warm, soapy water, and let it air dry completely before putting it back. For the best results, many air fryer enthusiasts swear by Dawn Powerwash Dish Spray as the ultimate tool for breaking down grease and buildup. The easiest way to keep your filter in top condition is to take a few minutes to clean both the appliance and the filter after a few uses.

How to Replace Your Air Fryer Filter

Most air fryer brands suggest changing your air fryer filter every 3 to 6 months, depending on how frequently you use it. To replace the filter, start by turning off and unplugging the air fryer. Open the filter casing, remove the old filter, and insert the new one. Once replaced, you're good to go! For replacements, check your air fryer model online, with plenty of options available on sites like Amazon.

The good news is that many air fryers are equipped with a sensor light that signals when it's time to change the filter. So, if you've ever wondered what that mysterious little light is, now you have the answer!