Can You Put Paper Towel In Air Fryer? Safety Guide

Can You Put Paper Towel in Air Fryer? – The Ultimate Guide

Airing Out the Air Fryer Basics

Air fryers have revolutionized our kitchens, offering us a healthier alternative to deep frying. I try not to fry too often, but when I do, I’m so glad I have my air fryer. I take comfort knowing that I’m not using too much oil, but still getting that fried taste and crunch. But is it safe to put a paper towel in your air fryer?

These modern kitchen appliances use the circulation of hot air to cook a variety of foods, from crispy chicken wings to tender pork chops. But, as with any new appliance, there are questions about what you can and can’t do. 

One common question that pops up is can you put paper towel in air fryer?

Do paper and hot oil mix?

This ultimate guide will explore the mechanics of air fryers and the role of paper towels in the cooking process. We’ll share what’s safe, what’s recommended, and what not to do. Plus, I’ll share my recipe for amazing kid-friendly avocado air fries!

Air fryers work by circulating hot air around the food, mimicking the effects of deep frying, but using significantly less oil. Just see from this chart just how much less oil you need when air frying.

Cooking Method	Amount of Oil	Notes
Deep Frying	2-3 quarts	Oil needs to fully submerge the wings
Baking	Lightly coat	Use a spray or brush for a thin coat
Air Frying	1-2 teaspoons	Just enough to lightly coat the wings
Grilling	1 tablespoon	To prevent sticking and add flavor
Pan Frying	1/4 – 1/2 cup	Enough to cover the surface of the pan

They’re essentially powerful ovens in a compact form, perfect for cooking bacon, tater tots, french fries, and more. But is it a good idea to introduce regular paper towels into this high-heat environment?

The short answer is no, but let’s explore why. Understanding the mechanics of your air fryer and the properties of paper towels will help us understand why combining the two might not be the best idea.

Understanding Air Fryer Mechanics

Air fryers are essentially small, powerful ovens. They use a heating element and a fan to circulate hot air around the food, resulting in even cooking and a crispy exterior. This method is similar to a convection oven, but concentrated in a smaller space. The key to this technology is the circulation of hot air, which ensures even cooking and crisping.

However, unlike a regular oven or toaster oven, air fryers rely heavily on the air flow within their compact space. When you place food in the air fryer’s basket, the hot air needs to circulate freely to cook the food evenly. This is why foods are often cooked in a single layer in the basket.

Introducing a paper towel into this environment can disrupt the air flow, leading to uneven cooking. 

The paper towel can also come in contact with the heating element, posing a serious fire hazard. Therefore, it’s crucial to understand that the air fryer’s design is optimized for air circulation without any obstructions.

Paper Towel 101: What You Need to Know

Paper towels are a staple in most kitchens, used for everything from wiping spills to holding greasy food. They’re made from regular paper that’s been processed to increase absorbency. This makes them great for soaking up excess oil from fried foods or wiping down surfaces.

In the context of cooking, paper towels can be used for absorbing excess grease from foods like bacon slices or chicken wings. However, when exposed to very high temperatures, like those in an air fryer, paper towels pose a fire risk. 

Unlike parchment paper or aluminum foil, regular paper towels are not designed to withstand high heat.

The safety hazard with using paper towels in air fryers is twofold. 

First, they can ignite when exposed to the air fryer’s heating element. 

Second, if a paper towel blocks the air flow, it can cause uneven cooking, potentially leading to poorly cooked food. 

So, while paper towels are useful in many cooking scenarios, they’re not suitable for use inside an air fryer.

Mixing Paper and Heat: The Potential Risks

Air fryers operate at very high temperatures, often exceeding 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This is much hotter than what regular paper towels are designed to withstand. 

At these temperatures, paper towels can easily catch fire, posing a serious fire hazard in your kitchen.

Plus, the primary function of an air fryer is to provide a crispy outer layer to food through the even circulation of hot air. 

Placing a paper towel inside can disrupt this air flow, leading to uneven cooking. Foods might end up partially cooked or not crispy enough, which defeats the purpose of using an air fryer.

Many users and experts advise against the use of paper towels in air fryers for these reasons. Not only does it increase the risk of a fire, but it also hampers the cooking process, leading to subpar results. 

It’s best to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines, which typically advise against placing any kind of paper product inside the air fryer during use.

Alternative Air Fryer Tricks and Tips

If your goal is to reduce the mess or absorb excess oil, there are safer alternatives to using paper towels in your air fryer. 

Parchment paper, specifically designed for high heat, can be a good alternative. It’s made to withstand high temperatures and won’t disrupt the air flow as much as regular paper towels.

For cleaning, rather than placing a paper towel at the bottom of the air fryer, it’s better to clean the removable parts after use. Most air fryer baskets and removable parts are dishwasher safe or can be easily cleaned with a damp cloth and some warm soapy water. This ensures that your air fryer stays clean without compromising safety.

In terms of accessories, there are many available that are designed specifically for air fryer use. These include nonstick baskets, silicon molds, and even racks that allow you to cook different foods simultaneously. Using these accessories can enhance your air fryer cooking experience, making it easier and safer to cook a variety of dishes.

Expert Insight

The Short Answer from the Pros

When it comes to the question “Can you put paper towel in air fryer?”, the short answer from kitchen appliance experts leans towards a cautious ‘no’. 

They stress understanding the unique mechanics of air fryers, especially the role of the heating element in cooking food through the circulation of hot air. 

Experts point out that the high heat and intense air flow necessary for air frying could turn a regular paper towel into a fire risk, threatening not just the meal but also the safety of the entire kitchen.

Manufacturer’s Take on Safety

Air fryer manufacturers are clear on one thing: safety first. In their guidelines, they often discourage placing any materials like regular paper towels, wax paper, or wet batter that could obstruct the air flow or come in contact with the heating element. 

They suggest alternatives like parchment paper or aluminum foil, provided they are used correctly, not blocking the air fryer basket. This ensures the safe and efficient operation of the air fryer, maintaining its status as a favorite kitchen appliance for cooking foods like french fries, chicken wings, and air fryer bacon.

Concluding Recommendations

Wrapping up the advice on whether you can put paper towel in air fryer, the best practice is to avoid it. 

For absorbing excess oil, experts recommend placing food on a paper towel after it’s cooked and removed from the air fryer’s basket. This method reduces the risk of fire and ensures even cooking. 

For cleaning, a damp cloth or sponge with warm soapy water is recommended for wiping down the removable parts and the inside of the air fryer, especially after cooking greasy food.

Air Fryer Do’s and Don’ts

1. Do Use the Right Accessories: Opt for parchment paper or aluminum foil instead of regular paper towels.
2. Don’t Block the Air Flow: Ensure nothing obstructs the circulation of hot air around the food.
3. Do Clean Safely: Use a damp cloth and warm soapy water for cleaning, avoiding harsh chemicals.
4. Don’t Ignore Safety Guidelines: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions to prevent any safety hazard.
5. Do Experiment with Recipes: Try cooking different foods, from veggies to meats, for delicious and healthy meals.
6. Don’t Forget to Share: Post your favorite recipes and air fryer tips on social media for community engagement.

FAQS

Can You Put Aluminum Foil in an Air Fryer?

Yes, but with caution.

• Why Use It? Aluminum foil can be handy in an air fryer to catch drips, make cleanup easier, or wrap foods for specific cooking outcomes.
• How to Use Safely?
  • Avoid Covering the Entire Basket: This restricts air flow.
  • Secure It Properly: Ensure it doesn’t come in contact with the heating element.
  • Acidic Foods Warning: Acidic foods like tomatoes can react with aluminum, altering the flavor of your food.

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Can You Put Paper in the Air Fryer?

Not recommended.

• Fire Hazard: Regular paper can ignite at high temperatures.
• Alternatives: Parchment paper or specifically designed air fryer liners are safer options.

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Can You Put Anything in the Bottom of an Air Fryer?

It depends.

• Purpose: Items are placed at the bottom for catching drips or preventing sticking.
• Safe Options:
  • Parchment Paper: With holes to allow air flow.
  • Special Liners: Designed for air fryers.
• Avoid:
  • Foil Covering Entire Base: Blocks air flow.
  • Paper Towels: Risk of fire.

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Is It Better to Use Parchment Paper or Foil in an Air Fryer?

Varies by Need.

• Parchment Paper:
  • Good For: Baked goods, delicate items.
  • Benefits: Non-stick, doesn’t react with acidic foods.
• Aluminum Foil:
  • Good For: Heavier items, like meat.
  • Benefits: Sturdy, good heat conductor.
• Key: Proper placement for air circulation.

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What Can You Not Put in an Air Fryer?

Certain items should be avoided:

1. Excessively Wet Batter: Causes uneven cooking and mess.
2. Cheese: Without a crust, it can melt and stick.
3. Raw Grains: Won’t cook properly.
4. Whole Roasts or Large Cuts: May cook unevenly.
5. Plastics: Melting risk.
6. Leafy Greens: Can be blown around by air flow.
7. Lots of Oil: Air fryers require little to no oil.

Try our kid-friendly recipe for air-fried avocado fries. They’re crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and a fun way to get kids to enjoy healthy fats! Make them and share how you like them in the comments!

Craving more delicious recipes? Try our delicious Cheesy Shell Pasta