So, you just got a brand-new air fryer, unboxed it, and fired it up—only to be hit with a strong plastic smell. Not exactly appetizing, right? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. That “new appliance” smell is pretty common, and the good news is, it’s temporary.
The plastic odor usually comes from leftover manufacturing residues, protective coatings, or even the heating elements burning off for the first time. While it’s not harmful in most cases, you don’t want that scent transferring to your food.
Luckily, there are easy ways to get rid of it fast. In this guide, we’ll go over why your air fryer smells like plastic and the best step-by-step methods to remove the odor for good. Follow these simple tricks, and you’ll be air frying without any weird smells in no time!
Why Does a New Air Fryer Smell Like Plastic?
That strong plastic smell isn’t just in your head—it’s a common issue with new air fryers. But why does it happen? Here are the main reasons your air fryer gives off that factory-like odor:
Manufacturing Residue
During production, air fryers are coated with lubricants, adhesives, and protective materials to keep parts in good condition. Some of these residues can linger, and when you heat up the fryer for the first time, they burn off, releasing that plastic-like smell.
Heating Elements Burning Off Coatings
Air fryers use powerful heating elements, which may have protective coatings from the factory. When these coatings heat up for the first few cycles, they can produce an unpleasant smell. The good news? It usually fades after a few uses.
Plastic Components & Protective Films
Air fryers are made with heat-resistant plastics, especially around the basket and interior. When exposed to high temperatures, these materials can release trapped chemical odors. Also, some models have protective plastic films on the inside—if not removed, they can melt and worsen the smell.
Packaging & Storage Effects
That “new appliance” smell can also come from packaging materials and how the air fryer was stored before you bought it. Cardboard boxes, foam padding, and plastic wraps can all leave behind chemical residues that need to be aired out or cleaned.
How to Remove the Plastic Smell from Your Air Fryer (Step-by-Step Guide)
That plastic smell may be annoying, but the good news is—it’s easy to get rid of. With just a little prep work, you can eliminate the odor and get your air fryer ready for cooking. Follow these steps, and you’ll be enjoying crispy, delicious meals without any chemical aftertaste.
1. Wash the Air Fryer Thoroughly Before First Use
Before using your air fryer for the first time, give it a deep clean. Many people skip this step, but it’s one of the most effective ways to remove factory residues and lingering smells.
Start by removing all detachable parts, including the basket, tray, and any accessories. Wash them in warm, soapy water with a soft sponge. If your air fryer has a nonstick coating, avoid using abrasive scrubbers, which can damage the surface. After washing, rinse everything thoroughly and let it air dry.
Next, wipe down the interior and exterior of the air fryer using a damp cloth. A mixture of mild dish soap and warm water works well, but if you want extra odor-fighting power, try using a bit of white vinegar. Make sure to check for any protective plastic films inside the fryer—these need to be removed before use, as they can melt and worsen the smell.
Once everything is dry, reassemble your air fryer. Now it’s time for the next step.
2. Run an Initial “Burn-Off” Cycle
Even after cleaning, some chemical residues may still be present, especially on the heating elements. That’s why it’s important to run a burn-off cycle before cooking any food.
To do this, place the air fryer basket and tray back inside, plug it in, and set the temperature to 400°F (200°C). Let it run empty for 10 to 15 minutes. If possible, do this in a well-ventilated area—turn on your stove vent or open a window to help dissipate the smell.
After the first cycle, let the air fryer cool down for a few minutes, then check for lingering odors. If the plastic smell is still noticeable, repeat the process two or three more times. The heat helps break down and burn off any remaining factory coatings, reducing the odor significantly.
3. Use Natural Odor Eliminators
If the plastic smell persists, natural ingredients like vinegar, lemon, and baking soda can help neutralize odors without harsh chemicals.
One of the best methods is the lemon and vinegar steam trick. Fill a small oven-safe dish (or the air fryer basket) with equal parts water and white vinegar, then add a few slices of fresh lemon. Place the dish in the air fryer and set the temperature to 350°F (175°C). Let it run for 5 minutes, then leave the mixture inside with the air fryer off for another 10 to 15 minutes. The steam will help loosen any lingering plastic smells, while the lemon adds a fresh scent.
If you prefer a dry method, baking soda is a great alternative. Simply place a small bowl of baking soda inside the unplugged air fryer overnight. Baking soda is a natural odor absorber and can help eliminate any remaining chemical smells. Similarly, activated charcoal or coffee grounds can also work well—just leave them inside the air fryer for several hours.
4. Cook a Neutralizing First Batch of Food
Once your air fryer is cleaned and prepped, it’s a good idea to “season” it by cooking something neutral. This helps eliminate any remaining odors and ensures that your first real meal won’t have any unwanted plastic taste.
A great option is to air fry some potato peels or plain bread. Simply toss a few potato skins or slices of bread into the basket, set the temperature to 375°F (190°C), and cook for about 10 minutes. These foods absorb odors while also helping to coat the fryer’s interior with natural cooking oils, reducing any lingering chemical residue.
After this, your air fryer should be completely free of that unpleasant plastic smell. Now it’s ready to use for cooking your favorite crispy dishes without any weird aftertastes!
Preventing Future Plastic Odors in Your Air Fryer
Once you’ve gotten rid of that initial plastic smell, the last thing you want is for it to come back. While the strongest odors usually disappear after the first few uses, certain habits can cause lingering smells to return over time. Here’s how to keep your air fryer fresh and odor-free for good.
Clean Your Air Fryer Regularly
Leftover food particles, grease, and residue can build up inside your air fryer, leading to unpleasant smells—not just plastic odors, but burnt or stale smells as well. To prevent this, clean your air fryer after every use.
- Wash the basket, tray, and accessories with warm, soapy water. If your model is dishwasher-safe, you can run these parts through the dishwasher.
- Wipe down the interior and heating element with a damp cloth to remove oil buildup.
- Make sure all parts are completely dry before reassembling to avoid trapped moisture, which can lead to bad smells.
If you’re unsure about the best way to deep clean your air fryer, check out this guide on how to clean an air fryer for simple and effective cleaning methods.
Use Parchment Paper or Silicone Liners
Cooking directly in the air fryer basket can cause food and grease to stick to the surfaces, leading to residue buildup. Using air fryer parchment paper or a silicone liner can help prevent food from making direct contact with the plastic parts, reducing the chance of lingering odors.
Just be sure to use parchment paper only when food is weighing it down—loose parchment paper can fly up and touch the heating element, which is a fire hazard.
Avoid Overheating an Empty Air Fryer
Running your air fryer at high temperatures while empty can sometimes cause the plastic components to overheat, which may release faint chemical smells. Always make sure there’s at least a small amount of food inside when cooking. If you need to preheat your air fryer, keep it short—no more than 2-3 minutes.
Store Your Air Fryer in a Well-Ventilated Area
Storing your air fryer in a cramped, enclosed space (like a tightly shut cabinet) can cause odors to build up over time. If possible, keep it in a well-ventilated area, allowing air to circulate around it. If you only use your air fryer occasionally, you can leave a small dish of baking soda or activated charcoal inside when it’s not in use to absorb any lingering smells.
Let It Cool Down Before Storing
Putting your air fryer away immediately after use—especially if it’s still warm—can trap heat and odors inside. Always allow it to cool completely before storing, and give it a quick wipe-down to remove any grease or food particles.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is it safe to use an air fryer if it smells like plastic?
A mild plastic smell is normal for new air fryers, but it’s best to remove it before cooking food. Running a burn-off cycle and cleaning the fryer should eliminate the odor. If the smell persists after several uses, contact the manufacturer, as excessive odors may indicate a defect.
How long does it take for the plastic smell to go away?
In most cases, the plastic smell disappears after 2 to 5 uses if you follow proper cleaning and burn-off steps. Running a few high-heat cycles and using odor absorbers like vinegar or baking soda can speed up the process.
Can I use baking soda inside the air fryer while it’s running?
No, baking soda should only be used as an odor absorber when the air fryer is off. Leaving a small bowl of baking soda inside overnight can help eliminate lingering smells, but running the air fryer with loose baking soda inside could cause damage or create a mess.
What if the plastic smell doesn’t go away?
If the smell persists after multiple cleaning cycles, burn-off runs, and odor-removal methods, there could be a defect in the materials. Contact the manufacturer’s customer support for further assistance or a possible replacement.
Can I cook in my air fryer before removing the plastic smell?
Technically, yes, but it’s not recommended. Cooking before removing the odor might transfer the plastic-like taste to your food. It’s best to run a burn-off cycle, clean thoroughly, and use natural odor eliminators before cooking anything.
Final Thoughts
A plastic smell in a new air fryer is frustrating, but it’s completely normal and easy to fix. The key is to clean it thoroughly, run a burn-off cycle, and use natural odor eliminators like vinegar, lemon, or baking soda. With just a little prep work, you can eliminate the smell and start cooking with confidence.
Once the odor is gone, keeping your air fryer clean and well-maintained will ensure it stays fresh and odor-free. Regular washing, proper storage, and using liners can help prevent future smells from developing.
Now that your air fryer is ready, it’s time to put it to good use. Whether you’re making crispy fries, juicy chicken, or even desserts, you can enjoy all the benefits of air frying—without any unwanted plastic smells getting in the way!
