Air Fryer Accessories: The Ones Worth Buying (and Skipping)

Did you know 43% of U.S. households now own an air fryer? Yet, over half struggle with unevenly cooked meals or smoke-filled kitchens. The problem? Using the wrong accessories. The right tools can make a big difference in your air fryer’s performance.

Choosing the right cookware is key. It affects flavor, texture, and safety. Many gadgets marketed for air fryers don’t work well. They can make food soggy or even release harmful chemicals.

This guide helps you find the best accessories. We’ll show you which ones improve your air fryer’s performance. You’ll learn how to avoid products that can ruin your cooking. We’ll also cover solutions for sticking food, cleaning, and saving space.

Key Takeaways

• Non-stick baskets outperform generic racks for most recipes
• Silicone molds prevent batter drips but limit crispiness
• Oven-safe glass containers enable better moisture control
• Perforated parchment paper reduces cleanup without blocking airflow
• Multi-layer racks often create uneven cooking zones

By choosing the right accessories, you can achieve better results. You’ll get consistent, restaurant-quality food. Let’s build a toolkit that makes cooking easier and healthier.

Why Air Fryer Accessory Choices Matter

Your air fryer’s performance is more than just its base unit. The accessories you use greatly affect your cooking results and how long your appliance lasts. Picking the right tools is key to getting the most out of your air fryer and avoiding expensive mistakes.

Impact on Cooking Performance

Quality accessories are like precision tools for your air fryer. For example, the Cozyna silicone liner keeps food from burning and stays crispy. But, bad tools can mess up airflow, leading to soggy fries or undercooked chicken.

Innoteck’s research offers these cookware tips:

• Perforated pans increase surface browning by 40%
• Oversized racks reduce cooking efficiency by 25%
• Mesh baskets cook 15% faster than solid containers

Safety Considerations

Not all materials can handle air frying’s high heat. Always check if accessories can handle at least 450°F. Here’s a table comparing safety:

Long-Term Appliance Maintenance

How you cook today affects your air fryer’s future. Using gentle accessories keeps the non-stick coating in good shape. A damaged surface can cut efficiency by 30%, as tested by manufacturers. Also, using the right cleaning tools, like nylon brushes, stops grease from building up in hard-to-reach places.

Here’s a maintenance plan for a long-lasting air fryer:

1. Season metal racks monthly
2. Inspect silicone for cracks weekly
3. Deep-clean baskets after oily foods

10 Common Air Fryer Accessory Mistakes That Ruin Your Food

Your air fryer’s success depends on the right accessories. Avoid these common mistakes to prevent kitchen disasters. Some errors can even be dangerous.

1. Using Non-Heat-Resistant Silicone Liners

Not all silicone can handle high heat. Cheap liners can melt and ruin your food with bad smells. Always check the temperature rating before using.

2. Overcrowding With Undersized Baskets

Putting too much food in small baskets blocks air. This leads to unevenly cooked food. Make sure to leave about 30% of the basket empty.

3. Scratching Surfaces With Metal Utensils

Metal utensils can damage your air fryer’s nonstick coating. This can make cooking 40% less efficient. Use nylon or wooden tools instead.

4. Blocking Airflow With Solid Pans

Standard baking sheets block air from reaching food. Use perforated pans to let air in and catch drips. This is key for juicy meats.

5. Using Oversized Accessories

Accessories should fit snugly in the basket. Too big and they block air, causing smoke and uneven cooking.

6. Improper Cleaning of Mesh Baskets

Don’t let food residue dry in mesh baskets. Clean them right away with warm soapy water. This keeps them in good shape.

7. Storing Accessories While Damp

Moisture in accessories can lead to mold. Dry them with a microfiber cloth before storing. This stops bacteria from growing.

8. Using Regular Oven Mitts

Thick mitts can slip when handling small baskets. Use heat-resistant silicone gloves for better grip and safety.

9. Ignoring Weight Limits

Don’t overload your air fryer racks. They can bend over time. Most baskets can handle 5-7 pounds, so weigh your food first.

10. Mixing Accessory Materials

Using different materials can cause uneven heating. Stick to one type of material for each cooking cycle. This ensures even results.

Silicone Liners: Essential Protection

Your air fryer’s life depends on the right liners. They must handle heat well and keep things clean. Not all silicone liners are made equal, especially when it comes to high heat.

Best overall: Cozyna Air Fryer Liners

Professional chefs love Cozyna’s liners for their toughness. They have three main benefits:

• 450°F heat resistance handles even the crispiest chicken wings
• Textured surface prevents soggy results in vegetable batches
• Reusable design survives 1000+ cycles (per third-party lab tests)

“These liners reduced my basket scrubbing time by 80% while maintaining perfect airflow.”

Budget pick: OXO Good Grips Silicone Mat

For those who cook less often but still want to keep things clean, OXO’s mat is a great choice:

• Non-slip edges secure food during shaking cycles
• Dishwasher-safe construction simplifies cleanup
• FDA-approved materials ensure toxin-free cooking

Think about how often you cook and your cleaning habits when picking liners. Cozyna’s liners are best for those who cook a lot at high heat. OXO is better for reheating fries or baking cookies.

Perforated Pizza Pans Worth Investing In

Choosing the right pizza pan for your air fryer is key. It makes all the difference between a crispy crust and a soggy mess. Perforated designs help by letting hot air flow while keeping toppings inside. We’ll look at two top picks that give you pro results safely and efficiently.

Top Choice: Bellemain Air Fryer Pizza Pan

The Bellemain pan is great for big air fryers. Its 16″ diameter fits big meals and still lets air flow. This is important to avoid cooking mistakes.

The cool-touch handles make it easy to move heavy pizzas or veggies. This reduces the risk of burns.

Key Advantages:

• Fits most 6-quart+ air fryer models
• Dishwasher-safe stainless steel construction
• Reinforced edges prevent warping

Alternative: Nordic Ware Natural Aluminum

The Nordic Ware pan is perfect for smaller families. It has a rust-resistant coating and cooks evenly. This means no more crusts that are burnt in some spots and raw in others.

It’s also light, making it great for small air fryers under 5 quarts.

Make sure to check your air fryer basket size before buying. A pan that’s too big can block air flow and mess up cooking. Both pans we talked about fix common cooking mistakes and are built to last.

Must-Have Grill Baskets

Adding grill baskets to your air fryer makes cooking easier and better. They fix two big common kitchen utensil blunders: unevenly cooked food and soggy veggies. The right basket helps food taste better and keeps oil and food from sticking.

Best for Veggies: GoWISE USA Grill Basket

This basket is great for veggies like Brussels sprouts, zucchini, and bell peppers. Its 360° rotation capability makes food cook evenly, like a pro. The non-stick ceramic coating keeps asparagus spears intact during cooking.

Key Advantages

• Eliminates hot spots through automatic food rotation
• Reduces oil use by 40% compared to standard baskets
• Handles temperatures up to 450°F for charred textures

Meat Lover’s Pick: Cuisinart Grill Set

This set is perfect for chicken wings and burgers. It has steam vent technology to remove excess grease. The vents keep food crispy on the outside and juicy inside. Plus, it’s dishwasher safe for easy cleaning.

Why It Excels

• Prevents sogginess with strategic airflow channels
• Includes skewers for kebabs and rib racks
• BPA-free materials withstand high-heat searing

Both baskets fix common cooking mistakes. The GoWISE model’s rotation beats static trays, and Cuisinart’s drainage system outshines basic pans. Make sure the basket fits your air fryer to avoid overcrowding.

Skewer Sets That Deliver Results

Take your air fryer cooking to the next level with the right skewers. The best sets ensure even heat and keep food in place. Whether you’re cooking veggies or making kebabs, the material matters a lot.

Stainless Steel Recommendation: Mueller Skewers

Flat-Edge Design

Mueller’s 18-inch stainless steel skewers have a flat edge. This stops food from spinning, helping it brown evenly. It’s key for mastering how to cook properly in air fryers.

Heat-Resistant Handles

The handles are made of textured silicone and can handle up to 450°F. They stay cool, unlike cheaper options. A study showed steel skewers cook food 22% faster than bamboo.

Bamboo Alternative: Hiware Skewers

Pre-Soaking Benefits

Hiware’s 10-inch bamboo skewers need a 30-minute soak before use. This step prevents burning and makes them last longer. Soaking in vinegar helps them resist fire better.

Eco-Friendly Option

These skewers are biodegradable and break down in 6 months. They’re not as durable but great for those who care about the planet.

Both options are great for learning how to cook properly. Steel is durable, while bamboo is eco-friendly. Choose based on your cooking habits and values.

Baking Accessories That Shine

Unlock your air fryer’s full baking potential with specialized pans and tins. They ensure even heat and foolproof results. The right accessories turn your countertop into a pastry chef’s toolkit, giving you golden-brown cakes and perfectly portioned muffins every time.

Best Cake Pan: Chefmade Round Pan

This 7-inch pan is a top choice for air fryer baking. It has a non-stick ceramic coating that needs little oil. Unlike regular bakeware, its reinforced aluminum base keeps temperatures steady for even rising.

Cool-Grip Handles

Heat-resistant silicone handles make it safe to take out creations without oven mitts. The handles are designed for a secure grip, even in tight air fryer baskets.

Muffin Tin Pick: Wilton Recipe Right

Wilton’s 6-cup tin gets professional-level browning thanks to its precision-engineered cavities. Made of steel, it resists warping and has a slick coating for easy muffin release. It’s perfect for meal-prepping breakfasts or savory frittatas.

Durable Construction

Reinforced edges prevent bending during high-heat cycles. This makes it better than flimsier pans like Trudeau’s aluminum pan. It’s a workhorse that lasts through weekly use without losing its non-stick properties.

For the best results, use accessories like OXO’s baking cups with parchment liners. Always preheat your air fryer basket for 3 minutes before adding pans. This helps achieve fluffier textures, just like a traditional oven.

Accessories to Avoid Completely

Your air fryer’s performance and safety depend on what you don’t use. Some accessories can damage your appliance or even start fires. Let’s look at two common offenders and their safer alternatives.

The Hidden Fire Hazard in Your Kitchen Drawer

Non-stick foil might seem handy, but it’s risky in air fryers. At high temperatures, the foil’s coating can melt onto heating elements. This can cause fires and release toxic fumes.

Why It’s Flammable

Non-stick foil is different from regular aluminum foil. It has:

• Plastic-based coatings that melt easily
• Adhesive layers that degrade under high heat
• Uneven surfaces that trap grease

Smart Swaps for Safe Cooking

Instead of risky foil, try these alternatives:

1. Parchment liners with pre-cut holes (like GIR silicone tools)
2. Reusable silicone baskets
3. Glass cookware rated for high heat

Metal Tongs: The Silent Coating Killer

While stainless steel utensils work for regular pans, they’re bad for air fryer baskets. Just one scrape can damage the non-stick surface. This leads to stuck food and uneven cooking.

Scratch Damage Explained

Metal utensils cause:

• Exposed metal surfaces that rust over time
• Flaking coating particles in your food
• Hot spots from uneven heat distribution

Nylon to the Rescue

Upgrade to heat-resistant nylon tools like Misen’s 600°F-safe tongs. These offer:

1. Gentle grip on delicate foods
2. No-scratch food flipping
3. Easy cleaning with dishwasher-safe materials

By avoiding these problematic accessories, you’ll protect your meals and appliance. Always check manufacturer guidelines for approved materials.

Oversized Trays: Why They Fail

Many home cooks don’t know how tray size affects their air fryer’s performance. Larger accessories might seem useful, but they often block air flow. This can ruin the taste and texture of your meals. Let’s explore why size is crucial.

Airflow Blockage Issues

Air fryers need fast air circulation to cook food evenly. Oversized trays fill the cooking space, making it hard for heat to reach everywhere. Cuisinart’s charts show their 6-quart models need at least 1.5″ of space around for good air flow. Ninja suggests 2″ gaps for best results in similar baskets.

Incomplete Cooking Results

Blocked air flow leads to uneven cooking. You might see raw centers on thicker foods like chicken or potato wedges. A 2023 study found oversized trays cook meals 25% longer but still don’t cook well. The outside might get crispy, but the inside stays raw.

Recommended Size Guidelines

Always check your air fryer basket size before buying accessories. Follow these brand-specific rules:

• Cuisinart: Trays should be 1-1.5″ smaller than basket length/width
• Ninja: Maintain 2″ clearance from heating elements
• Cosori: Use accessories no taller than 2.5″

Stick to these sizes to avoid common mistakes. Your air fryer’s manual usually has diagrams for safe accessory placement. Always check them before trying new products.

Cleaning Tools You Should Use

Keeping your air fryer accessories clean is key. It’s not just about looks—it keeps them working well and safe. The right tools help avoid scratches, keep coatings in place, and ensure even heat.

Nylon Brushes: Gentle Yet Effective

Nylon brushes with stiff bristles get rid of stuck-on food without harming surfaces. Stay away from metal brushes—they can scratch and make surfaces rough.

OXO Good Grips Brush

Angled bristles are better for mesh baskets. The handle is easy to hold, and it’s dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning.

Bristle Durability Matters

Low-quality brushes can fall apart and get into your air fryer. Choose heat-resistant nylon that can handle high temperatures. Replace brushes every 4-6 months if you use them a lot.

Non-Abrasive Scrubbers: Smart Alternatives

For tough grease, use textured pads that clean without scratching. They work on many surfaces, including stainless steel and ceramic.

Scour Daddy Pads

These pads change texture when wet to grab onto grease. They’re better than steel wool because they don’t leave metal particles. Use the blue side for light cleaning and the green side for tough stains.

Microfiber Magic

High-quality microfiber cloths soak up grease better than paper towels. Dampen them with hot water for quick cleanings. Don’t use fabric softeners, as they reduce their ability to absorb.

Always dry tools before storing them. Moisture can cause bacteria and damage silicone handles. Use mild dish soap with these cleaners for the best results.

Proper Accessory Storage

Smart storage keeps your air fryer tools in top shape. It avoids common kitchenware pitfalls. How you organize these items impacts their durability, safety, and performance over time. Let’s break down three essential strategies to protect your investment.

Stacking Guidelines

Prioritize vertical over horizontal storage to prevent scratches and warping. Use adjustable dividers for perforated pans and mesh baskets. The Cosori accessory set’s nesting design shows how compact stacking saves space without compromising non-stick coatings.

Moisture Control

Always dry accessories completely before storing. Tuck silica gel packets into drawers or cabinets to combat humidity. Damp conditions breed mold and degrade silicone liners faster – a leading cause of premature replacements.

Space-Saving Solutions

• Mount magnetic strips for metal skewers and tongs
• Use collapsible silicone containers for liners
• Install under-cabinet hooks for grill baskets

These methods prevent clutter while ensuring quick access during cooking sessions. Pair them with regular cabinet audits to maintain an efficient kitchen setup.

Maintenance for Longevity

Your air fryer accessories need the same care as your favorite cookware. With the right maintenance, they’ll last longer and work better. Here are three key routines to prevent damage and ensure safe, efficient cooking.

Seasoning Metal Accessories

Seasoning isn’t just for cast iron skillets—it’s good for metal air fryer baskets and racks too. Follow these steps to season them with flaxseed oil (high smoke point):

1. Wash and dry the accessory thoroughly
2. Apply a thin oil layer with a lint-free cloth
3. Bake at 400°F for 30 minutes upside-down
4. Repeat 2-3 times for durable seasoning

This method creates a natural nonstick surface and prevents rust. Re-season every month if food starts sticking.

Silicone Care Tips

Silicone liners and mats need gentle care. Always:

• Hand-wash with mild detergent—no abrasive sponges
• Air-dry completely before storage
• Avoid direct contact with heating elements

Even if they get discolored, it doesn’t affect their performance. But replace them if they become brittle or warped. For tough stains, soak in baking soda solution overnight.

Regular Inspection Routine

Do a monthly checkup with this quick list:

• Test basket handles for looseness
• Scan for scratches on nonstick surfaces
• Check silicone for tears or thinning
• Verify accessory weight limits (printed on labels)

Worn-out accessories can lead to uneven cooking and safety risks. If unsure, it’s best to replace them.

Safety First: Usage Tips

Learning about air fryer safety makes cooking safer and more enjoyable. Using the right accessories can make a big difference. But, using them wrong can cause accidents. Here are some tips to keep your appliance and home safe.

Heat Protection Measures

Always use silicone-tipped tools when handling hot parts. The SOLEADER basket grippers can handle up to 450°F, much better than oven mitts. Use them with a Thermoworks ChefAlarm thermometer to check temperatures.

This combo can stop 92% of burns, as studies show. It’s a smart way to avoid accidents.

Proper Handling Techniques

Here’s how to remove the basket safely:

1. Engage grippers fully on basket handles
2. Lift straight up without tilting
3. Place on heat-resistant surface immediately

Don’t shake the basket while holding it. First, set it down, then use wooden utensils to toss food. Keep the area around the appliance clean and clear.

Child Safety Considerations

Use appliance locks on drawer-style air fryers. Toddlers can get to hot surfaces in just 1.2 seconds. Place the unit at least 12″ away from the counter edge.

Teach older kids the “red light rule”: Never touch when the power light is on. Store accessories in a safe place using magnetic cabinet locks.

These tips help make your kitchen safer. Using quality tools like SOLEADER grippers and following these habits can prevent 89% of common air fryer injuries.

Smart Shopping Strategies

Buying the right air fryer accessories is more than just picking the first thing you see. It’s about finding the right mix of size, material, and value. Here are three key points to avoid cookware mistakes and get the most out of your money.

Measuring Your Basket

Don’t guess if accessories will fit. First, make a simple template by tracing your air fryer basket’s base on cardboard. Note its depth. Then, compare these measurements to what’s listed online, especially for brands like Instant Vortex and Ninja that give detailed sizes.

Big racks or pans can block air, while small ones won’t cook food evenly. Make sure to check sizes carefully.

Material Quality Checks

Not all non-stick coatings are the same. PTFE (Teflon) works well at high heat but breaks down over 500°F. Ceramic is safer but not as tough. Look for FDA approval or PFOA-free labels.

Stay away from cheap silicone that bends at low heat. Good brands like OXO use strong, food-safe materials.

Warranty Considerations

Choose brands with at least 2-year warranties. KitchenCraft and Cuisinart often offer lifetime replacements for peeling or warped pans. Always read the fine print – some warranties don’t cover damage from metal utensils.

This protection means you won’t have to replace $40 accessories every six months. Follow these tips to build a lasting collection of air fryer accessories. Measure twice, choose certified materials, and always check the warranty before buying. Your air fryer and wallet will appreciate it.

Conclusion

Choosing the right air fryer accessories can change how you cook. The right tools help avoid common mistakes that ruin food. They also make your food taste better and feel softer.

Using the right accessories means your food cooks evenly and your basket stays safe. Don’t use silicone liners that melt at high heat. Also, avoid big trays that block air from getting in.

Look for brands like OXO Good Grips and Mueller for safe, durable tools. These brands help you cook without chemicals and use less oil.

Keeping your accessories in good shape is key. Clean metal pans right and store dry accessories standing up to save space. Always check the size of your basket before buying new accessories.

Good cooking comes from knowing how to avoid common mistakes. Check the size and material of your tools often. Use tested products like the Cuisinart Grill Set and Chefmade Round Pan for the best results.

Check if your tools are still good and try new ones to get the most out of your air fryer. Share your new cooking adventures to help others make smart choices in the kitchen.