Air fryers have become a kitchen essential in millions of homes. They’re fast, convenient, and promise crispy results with less oil. But while they seem simple to use, not everything belongs inside that compact countertop appliance. In fact, putting the wrong item in your air fryer can ruin your meal, damage the machine—or even start a fire.
Before you press that start button again, here are five things you must never put in an air fryer, including one common mistake that has caused real kitchen fires.
Table of Contents
1. Parchment Paper Without Food on Top
Parchment paper is often marketed as air fryer-safe—and it can be. But there’s a catch. It must always be weighed down with food.
Unlike a traditional oven, an air fryer works by rapidly circulating hot air around the basket. If you place parchment paper inside without food on top to hold it down, the powerful fan can lift it up. When that paper touches the heating element, it can ignite.
There have been reported cases of small kitchen fires caused by loose parchment paper flying into the heating coil. That’s why experts warn never to preheat your air fryer with parchment paper inside unless it’s secured under food.
Safer alternative:
Use perforated parchment liners designed specifically for air fryers—and only add them after placing your food in the basket.
2. Wet Batter
If you’ve ever tried making beer-battered fish or tempura in an air fryer, you may have been disappointed. That’s because wet batter doesn’t set instantly in an air fryer the way it does in hot oil.
Instead of crisping up, the batter can drip through the basket holes, creating a sticky mess at the bottom of the appliance. Not only does this make cleanup difficult, but it can also cause smoking and unpleasant odors during cooking.
In some cases, dripping batter can burn onto the heating element area, potentially leading to smoke buildup.
Better option:
Use breading instead of wet batter. Coat food in flour, egg wash, and breadcrumbs for that crispy texture without the mess.
3. Leafy Greens Without Weight
Kale chips are popular in air fryers—but loose spinach or other lightweight leafy greens can become dangerous.
Because air fryers circulate hot air at high speed, lightweight leaves can fly around the basket. If they touch the heating element, they can burn almost instantly.
Even if they don’t cause a fire, they may char unevenly or stick to internal components, shortening the lifespan of your appliance.
Tip:
If cooking leafy greens, lightly coat them in oil and use a rack or accessory to keep them secured in place.
4. Whole Roasts or Large Cuts of Meat
It might be tempting to cook a large whole chicken or hefty roast in your air fryer, but oversized items can cause problems.
Air fryers rely on space for proper airflow. If the basket is overcrowded or blocked by a large cut of meat, the hot air won’t circulate properly. This can result in uneven cooking, with the outside appearing done while the inside remains undercooked.
Undercooked poultry and meat carry serious food safety risks. Plus, excess fat dripping from large cuts can create heavy smoke inside the appliance.
Smarter approach:
Choose smaller cuts of meat and cook in batches if necessary. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure safe internal temperatures.
5. Cheese (Without Protection)
Yes, air fryers can make incredible mozzarella sticks—but tossing plain cheese directly into the basket is a recipe for disaster.
Unprotected cheese melts quickly and drips through the holes in the basket. Once it hits the bottom heating area, it can burn, smoke, and produce a stubborn, sticky residue that’s difficult to remove.
In extreme cases, excessive melted cheese buildup can interfere with the appliance’s internal components.
How to do it safely:
Only air fry cheese when it’s coated, wrapped, or placed in a dish designed for air fryer use.
Why Air Fryer Mistakes Can Be Risky
Air fryers are compact but powerful. Most models heat up to 400°F (200°C) or higher and use intense air circulation to cook food quickly. That combination of high heat and airflow means small mistakes can escalate faster than in a traditional oven.
Fire risks typically occur when lightweight materials (like paper or foil) are loose inside the basket or when grease and food debris accumulate without proper cleaning.
To reduce risks:
- Always follow your manufacturer’s instructions
- Clean the basket and tray after each use
- Avoid overcrowding
- Never leave the appliance unattended during cooking
The Bottom Line
Air fryers are incredibly convenient—but they aren’t foolproof. Seemingly harmless items like parchment paper or leafy greens can become hazards if used incorrectly. And while it’s rare, certain mistakes have led to small kitchen fires.
By knowing what not to put in your air fryer—and how to use it properly—you can keep your meals crispy and your kitchen safe.
