Can You Put Paper Towel In The Air Fryer? Safety Tips And Alternatives

Hey there, moms! If you’re a busy parent like me, you probably love your air fryer for its quick and easy cooking. In my opinion, the air fryer is my favorite kitchen appliance! Fried food with less oil?! Yes, please!

But have you ever wondered if you can use paper towels in your air fryer?

Maybe you want to soak up excess oil from your greasy food, or prevent your veggies from sticking to the bottom of your air fryer. Or maybe you’ve heard conflicting advice online and this causes a lot of confusion.

Well, you’re in luck because in this blog post, we’ll explore the question of whether paper towel is safe and effective to use in an air fryer. So sit back, grab a cup of coffee, and let’s get cooking!

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Paper Towels and Air Fryers

When using your air fryer, you might wonder whether it’s a good idea to put a paper towel in it. Unfortunately, the short answer is no, you cannot put paper towels in an air fryer. Placing paper towels in an air fryer during cooking is not recommended, as it can be a fire risk and safety hazard.

Fire Hazard

First and foremost, placing a paper towel inside your air fryer can potentially cause a serious fire hazard. Paper towels are flammable, and exposing them to the very high temperatures generated by the air fryer could lead to a dangerous situation. To ensure your safety, it’s best to avoid using paper towels while cooking with an air fryer.

Uneven Cooking

Another problem with using paper towels in an air fryer is that they can disrupt the air circulation. Proper air circulation is essential for achieving evenly cooked food in an air fryer. The paper towel may block the proper airflow, resulting in uneven cooking and affecting the overall quality of your meal.

Plus, the lightweight nature of paper towels means they can be easily moved by the hot air, causing blockages and further impairing the cooking process.

using parchment paper in the air fryer instead of paper towels

Crunch and Delicious Air-Fried Kale Chips

Safe Alternatives to Paper Towels for Air Fryers

So now you know that you should never put paper towels in the air fryer. To ensure safe and efficient cooking, consider using one of these alternative options:

Parchment Paper

Parchment paper is a heat-resistant, non-stick paper that can be used as a safe alternative to paper towels in an air fryer. When using parchment paper, make sure it’s cut to fit the cooking basket, and avoid covering its entire surface, as this can result in reduced airflow and uneven cooking.

Be sure to choose a parchment paper that’s rated to withstand high temperatures, typically up to 420°F (though some can handle higher temperatures than that). You can use parchment paper to cook many types of foods, such as french fries, snacks, or baked goods.

Aluminum Foil

Another good alternative to paper towels is aluminum foil. When using tin foil in an air fryer, ensure that it’s properly secured and doesn’t block the air vents. Keep in mind that aluminum foil may not be suitable for acidic foods, as it could react with the metal and cause them to taste metallic.

It’s also essential to avoid using thin, flimsy foils that could be easily moved by the circulating air and cause obstructions. Use heavy-duty aluminum foil for a safer and more reliable experience when cooking with your air fryer.

Air Fryer Liners

Air fryer liners are designed specifically for use in air fryers and make excellent alternatives to paper towels. These liners are typically made of heat-resistant materials, such as silicone or perforated parchment paper. You can even get aluminum foil liners! These liners are designed to fit the air fryer’s basket perfectly.

They help prevent your delicious food from sticking to the bottom of the air fryer while ensuring optimal air circulation and even cooking.

Air fryer liners can be easily cleaned and reused, making them an environmentally friendly and cost-effective option for your cooking needs.

using air fryer liners in the air fryer instead of paper towels

Dealing with Excess Oil and Grease in Air Fryer

When air frying, you may notice that some dishes produce excess oil and grease. Don’t worry! The good news is that there are several ways to deal with this issue without resorting to using paper towels in the air fryer, which is not recommended due to potential fire hazards and airflow disruption.

Use a Plate Lined with Paper Towels

One effective way to absorb excess oil is to use a plate lined with paper towels or a clean cloth. After you’ve finished cooking, simply remove the food from the air fryer and place it onto the lined plate. This will help absorb any excess oil and grease without posing harm to your air fryer.

Use a Slotted Spoon or Tongs

Another option is to use a slotted spoon or tongs to gently lift your food out of the air fryer basket, allowing any excess oil and grease to drip off back into the appliance. This is especially important when dealing with breaded or fried foods that may have absorbed a significant amount of oil during cooking.

Use a Silicone Air Fryer Basket or Liner

For a reusable solution, consider investing in a silicone air fryer basket or liner. These heat-resistant accessories are safe to use in your air fryer and can help minimize the mess made by excess oil and grease. They are particularly useful when cooking dishes that are prone to sticking, such as battered or breaded items.

Use a Cooking Oil Spray

Finally, if you find that excess oil is a consistent issue no matter what you cook, consider using a cooking oil spray instead of pouring oil directly onto your food. This allows you to apply a thinner, more even layer of oil. Ultimately, you will use a fraction of the oil you would need with a regular fryer.

Remember to always clean and maintain your air fryer properly to ensure optimal performance and to prevent any potential buildup of oil and grease inside the appliance. By following these tips, you can handle excess oil and grease effectively while keeping your air fryer safe and in tip-top shape.

using air fryer parchment paper liner in air fryer instead of paper towels

Air Fryer Accessories and Dishes

When using your air fryer, there are plenty of helpful accessories and dishes that can enhance your cooking experience. And no – these do not include paper towels!

One popular accessory to consider is the air fryer rack or multi-layer rack. This allows you to cook multiple food items at once, saving both time and energy. Be sure to find a rack that fits your specific air fryer model for optimal performance. Check the user manual for specifications.

Another useful addition to your air fryer collection is a set of baking dishes. These come in different sizes and various shapes, including round, square, and rectangle, designed explicitly for air fryer use. Baking dishes allow you to prepare cakes, quiches, and other scrumptious treats with ease.

Silicone cups or molds are a great way to cook small portions and individual servings of your favorite dishes. From muffins to egg bites, the possibilities are endless. These molds can withstand the high temperatures of your air fryer and make for easy clean-up.

Consider investing in a sturdy pair of tongs, as well. They will come in handy when you need to flip or remove food items from your air fryer safely. Look for tongs with a non-slip grip and a soft-touch handle for comfortable use.

Reusable silicone or parchment liners are an excellent alternative to using paper towels in your air fryer. They can be placed at the bottom of the basket to catch any drips or crumbs, making clean-up quick and simple. Plus, they are eco-friendly and will save you money in the long run.

All of these accessories and dishes are designed to help you make the most of your air fryer experience. They can help you cook a more extensive range of meals, streamline your cooking process, and keep your air fryer in top shape. So next time you’re searching for ways to elevate your air fryer game, be sure to check out these handy items.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you put paper towel in an air fryer?

No, it is not recommended to put paper towels directly in an air fryer. Paper towels are highly flammable and can catch fire when exposed to high heat. Placing paper towels in an air fryer can be dangerous and potentially cause a fire hazard.

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

Instead of using paper towels, you can use alternative methods to absorb excess oil or grease. One option is to place a wire rack or cooling rack inside the air fryer basket, allowing the oil to drip off the food. Another alternative is to use perforated parchment paper, which allows air circulation while keeping your food from sticking to the basket.

Can I line the air fryer basket with parchment paper?

Yes, you can line the air fryer basket with parchment paper, as long as it is specifically designed for high-heat cooking. Look for parchment paper that is labeled “oven-safe” or “air fryer-safe” to ensure it can withstand the temperatures typically reached in an air fryer. Make sure to trim the parchment paper to fit the size of your basket and avoid covering the air vents.

Are there any other safety precautions to keep in mind?

Absolutely! When using an air fryer, it’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and safety guidelines. Here are a few additional tips:
-Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket, as it can obstruct air circulation and result in uneven cooking.
-Regularly clean the air fryer, including the basket and any removable parts, to prevent the buildup of grease or food debris.
-Avoid using aerosol cooking sprays in your air fryer, as they can damage the non-stick coating. Instead, use a brush or apply a small amount of oil with a spritzer bottle.
-Always supervise the cooking process and avoid leaving the air fryer unattended.

using air fryer parchment liner in air fryer instead of paper towels

Do Not Use Paper Towels in the Air Fryer!

So all of this is to say: do not use paper towel in your air fryer!

While it may seem like a convenient solution for soaking up excess oil or preventing sticking, paper towels can pose a serious fire hazard and release harmful chemicals into your food. Even plain, unbleached, and non-waxed paper towels can ignite or disintegrate under high heat, and may contain traces of ink, dyes, or bleach that can contaminate your food.

Instead, use a different method for oil absorption, such as a wire rack or a slotted spoon, or investing in a reusable silicone mat or parchment paper designed for air fryers.

What are your favorite recipes that you use your air fryer for? Happy cooking!

Can You Put Paper Towel in the Air Fryer? Safety Tips and Alternatives