Air Fryer Liners Guide: Parchment, Foil, Silicone & More
Last updated: February 12, 2026
Air fryer liners can make cleanup easier and prevent sticking — but not all liners are created equal.
Using the wrong liner (or using one incorrectly) can block airflow, reduce crispiness, or create safety risks.
This complete guide explains:
- The different types of air fryer liners
- When to use each one
- What to avoid
- Which option is best for your cooking style
What Are Air Fryer Liners?
Air fryer liners are materials placed inside the basket or tray to:
- Reduce sticking
- Catch grease
- Simplify cleanup
- Protect nonstick coating
Common types include:
- Parchment paper
- Aluminum foil
- Silicone liners
- Disposable paper liners
- Reusable mesh liners
1. Parchment Paper Liners
Best For
- Sticky or saucy foods
- Breaded items
- Easy cleanup
Pros
- Non-reactive
- Reduces sticking
- Widely available
- Perforated versions improve airflow
Cons
- Must be weighed down by food
- Can block airflow if oversized
- Has temperature limits (usually 425°F)
Important Tip
Never preheat with loose parchment inside.
For full safety details, read:
- Can You Put Parchment Paper in an Air Fryer?
2. Aluminum Foil
Best For
- Catching grease
- Wrapping delicate foods
- Preventing drips
Pros
- Durable
- Good for wrapping
- Flexible shaping
Cons
- Can block airflow
- Reacts with acidic foods
- May damage nonstick coating if misused
Foil must never be used in an empty basket.
Learn more here:
- Can You Put Foil in an Air Fryer?
3. Silicone Air Fryer Liners
Reusable silicone liners are becoming popular.
Best For
- Frequent users
- Reusable eco-friendly option
- Protecting nonstick surfaces
Pros
- Washable and reusable
- Durable
- No burning risk
Cons
- May slightly reduce crispiness
- Needs thorough cleaning
- Must fit basket properly
Silicone liners work best when airflow remains open around edges.
4. Disposable Air Fryer Paper Liners
These are pre-shaped, bowl-style liners.
Best For
- Very quick cleanup
- High-grease foods
- Minimal scrubbing
Pros
- Convenient
- Designed for basket shape
- Easy disposal
Cons
- Can reduce airflow
- May trap moisture
- Not eco-friendly
Choose perforated versions for better results.
5. Reusable Mesh or Rack Liners
Some models include:
- Metal mesh trays
- Elevated racks
Best For
- Extra airflow
- Dehydrating
- Multi-layer cooking
These are more accessories than traditional liners.
Do Air Fryer Liners Affect Crispiness?
Yes — sometimes.
Air fryers rely on airflow.
If liners:
- Cover too much surface area
- Block vents
- Prevent bottom airflow
Food may turn soggy.
For best crispiness:
- Use perforated liners
- Avoid full coverage
- Cook in single layers
Which Air Fryer Liner Is Best?
For Most People
Perforated parchment liners are the safest balance of:
- Ease
- Cleanup
- Airflow
- Crispiness
For Frequent Users
Reusable silicone liners are cost-effective long term.
For Greasy Foods
Foil or disposable liners can help contain drips.
What You Should Avoid
❌ Wax paper (not heat safe)
❌ Plastic liners
❌ Loose liners during preheat
❌ Blocking airflow completely
Always prioritize airflow.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do liners damage air fryers?
Not if used properly and airflow remains open.
Are liners necessary?
No — many people cook without them. They’re optional for convenience.
Can liners cause smoke?
Only if grease builds up or airflow is blocked.
Final Recommendation
Air fryer liners are helpful tools — not required.
For most beginners:
- Start without liners
- Add perforated parchment when needed
- Avoid blocking airflow
Always remember: airflow is everything.
For more safety and usage tips, read:
Can You Put Parchment Paper In An Air Fryer? (Safe Use Guide)
Last updated: February 12, 2026
Yes — you can put parchment paper in an air fryer.
In fact, it’s often safer and more practical than foil.
But like foil, parchment must be used properly to avoid airflow problems or fire hazards.
This guide explains:
- When parchment is safe
- How to use it correctly
- Common mistakes to avoid
- When you should skip it
Is Parchment Paper Safe in an Air Fryer?
Yes — If Used Properly
Air fryers cook by circulating very hot air at high speed.
Loose parchment paper can:
- Fly into the heating element
- Burn
- Block airflow
But when used correctly, parchment is safe and helpful.
When It’s Safe To Use Parchment Paper
1. To Prevent Sticking
Great for:
- Breaded chicken
- Fish
- Sticky marinades
- Cheese-based foods
It helps reduce mess and keeps food intact.
2. To Catch Grease
Parchment can make cleanup easier when cooking:
- Bacon
- Sausage
- Burgers
Just ensure airflow remains open.
3. When It’s Weighed Down by Food
Always place food on top of the parchment.
Never run the air fryer with parchment inside but no food holding it down.
When You Should NOT Use Parchment Paper
1. Never Preheat With Loose Parchment
If parchment is inside during preheat without food, it can:
- Lift
- Touch the heating element
- Burn
Always add parchment after preheating if your model requires it.
2. Don’t Block Airflow
Air fryers need airflow from all sides.
If parchment covers:
- Side vents
- Entire basket walls
You may get uneven or soggy food.
3. Don’t Exceed Temperature Limits
Most parchment paper is safe up to about 425°F (220°C).
Check the packaging before using it at high temperatures.
Is Perforated Parchment Better?
Yes — often.
Why Perforated Paper Works Well
- Allows better airflow
- Reduces sogginess
- Maintains crisp texture
- Designed specifically for air fryers
Pre-cut air fryer liners with holes are usually the safest option.
Parchment vs Foil — Which Is Better?
Parchment Advantages
- Non-reactive
- Less likely to damage nonstick coating
- Easier cleanup
- Better airflow options (perforated)
Foil Advantages
- Stronger structure
- Good for wrapping food
- Good for catching drips
If unsure, read:
- Can You Put Foil in an Air Fryer?
Common Mistakes With Parchment
❌ Using it during preheat
❌ Letting it touch heating elements
❌ Blocking air vents
❌ Exceeding temperature limits
Avoid these and you’ll be fine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can parchment paper catch fire in an air fryer?
Only if it’s loose and touches the heating element or exceeds temperature limits.
Is parchment better than foil in an air fryer?
In most cases, yes — especially for delicate or sticky foods.
Can I use wax paper instead?
No. Wax paper is not heat safe and can melt or smoke.
Final Answer
Yes — parchment paper is safe in an air fryer.
Just remember:
- Always weigh it down with food
- Don’t block airflow
- Don’t use it during empty preheating
- Stay within safe temperature limits
Used correctly, parchment makes cleanup easier and improves cooking consistency.
For more safety tips, visit:
Can You Put Foil In An Air Fryer? (What You Need To Know)
Last updated: February 12, 2026
Yes — you can put foil in an air fryer.
But only if you use it correctly.
Using foil improperly can block airflow, cause uneven cooking, trigger smoke, or even create a fire hazard.
This guide explains:
- When foil is safe
- When it’s not
- How to use it properly
- Better alternatives
Is Aluminum Foil Safe In An Air Fryer?
Yes, But With Rules
Air fryers cook using rapid hot air circulation. If foil blocks airflow, cooking performance suffers.
Foil is safe if:
- It does not cover the entire basket
- It does not block air vents
- It is weighed down by food
- It does not touch the heating element
When It’s Safe To Use Foil
1. To Catch Drips
Foil can help catch grease when cooking:
- Bacon
- Sausage
- Marinated meats
Just make sure air can still circulate.
2. To Prevent Sticking
You can line part of the basket to:
- Keep delicate foods intact
- Prevent sticky sauces from burning
3. To Wrap Certain Foods
Foil wrapping works well for:
- Fish
- Stuffed vegetables
- Small packets of seasoned items
Just avoid fully sealing airflow paths.
When You Should NOT Use Foil
1. Never Use Foil in an Empty Basket
Without food to hold it down, foil can:
- Lift
- Touch the heating element
- Burn
Always place food on top.
2. Don’t Fully Line The Basket
Air fryers need airflow from all sides.
If foil blocks the bottom and sides completely, food may turn:
- Soggy
- Unevenly cooked
3. Avoid Acidic Foods
Aluminum foil can react with:
- Tomatoes
- Citrus
- Vinegar-heavy marinades
This may affect flavor.
Can You Put Foil In An Air Fryer Oven?
Yes — same rules apply.
In oven-style air fryers:
- Place foil on a rack tray
- Avoid blocking fan vents
- Keep foil secure
Oven-style models offer slightly more flexibility.
If you’re unsure which style you have, read:
- Basket vs Air Fryer Oven
Is Parchment Paper Better?
In many cases, yes.
Advantages of Parchment Paper
- Less reactive
- Designed airflow holes available
- Cleaner removal
- Reduces sticking
But like foil, parchment must be weighed down by food.
Common Mistakes With Foil
❌ Using Too Much Foil
❌ Blocking Airflow
❌ Letting It Touch Heating Elements
❌ Using It Without Food
All of these reduce performance and can create safety issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will foil damage my air fryer?
Not if used correctly and airflow remains open.
Why did my air fryer start smoking with foil?
Likely grease buildup or blocked airflow.
Can I wrap chicken in foil?
Yes, but expect less crispiness since airflow is reduced.
Final Answer
Yes — you can use foil in an air fryer.
Just remember:
- Don’t block airflow
- Don’t use it empty
- Don’t cover vents
- Don’t let it fly loose
Used properly, foil can make cleanup easier without hurting performance.
For more safety tips, read:
Best Air Fryers For Beginners (2026 Guide)
Last updated: February 12, 2026
Looking for your first air fryer? This guide highlights the easiest, most beginner-friendly models — ones with intuitive controls, hassle-free cleaning, and solid performance right out of the box.
Whether you’re cooking sides, frozen snacks, or simple meals, these air fryers make it easy to start without a steep learning curve.
Why These Are Good For Beginners
Air fryers for beginners share a few key traits:
- Easy controls
- Compact to medium size
- Simple cleaning
- Reliable results without manual adjustments
- Helpful presets
If you’re new to air frying, pick one from this list.
Top Beginner Air Fryer Picks
1. Drew Barrymore Beautiful Air Fryer (6 Qt)
Best overall beginner-friendly model
Highlights
- Touchscreen controls
- Multiple presets
- Stylish design
- Easy to clean basket
Best For
- Everyday meals
- Families of 2–4
- Users who want intuitive menus
Why It’s Great for Beginners
- Simple and intuitive touchscreen
- Large enough for common meals
- Looks less intimidating than traditional models
2. NutriFryer 4-Quart Air Fryer
Best compact, affordable starter model
Highlights
- Small footprint
- Dial controls
- Great value
Best For
- Single people or couples
- Small kitchens
- Occasional air frying
What Beginners Like
- Easy to understand knobs
- Faster preheat
- Very budget-friendly
3. Ninja AF080 Mini Air Fryer
Best small but powerful beginner model
Highlights
- Lightweight
- Easy one-dial settings
- Crisp, consistent results
Best For
- Small households
- Frozen snacks and sides
Why Beginners Enjoy It
- Simple control dial
- Minimal cleaning
- Reliable performance
4. PowerXL Air Fryer Maxx Classic (4 Qt)
Best mid-range, no-frills beginner choice
Highlights
- Digital controls
- Nice size for most households
- Easy maintenance
Best For
- Weeknight dinners
- Quick snacks
Why It’s Good for Beginners
- Easy digital interface
- Clear presets
- Easy prep and cleanup
5. Crownful 5-Quart Air Fryer
Best balance of size and simplicity
Highlights
- Mid-range capacity
- Simple UI
- Great for families of 2–4
Best For
- Everyday cooking
- Roast, fry, reheat
Why It Works Well
- Easy to clean
- Clear temperature and time settings
- Reliable crispiness
How To Choose A Beginner Air Fryer
Capacity
- 2–3 Qt — Small households
- 4–6 Qt — Most common choice
- 7–9 Qt — Large meals / families
Beginners usually do best with 4–6 quarts.
Controls
- Dials are friendliest for beginners
- Digital menus are fine if intuitive
- Avoid complicated multi-step menus
Ease of Cleaning
Look for:
- Dishwasher-safe baskets
- Nonstick baskets
- Fewer crevices
Presets
Beginner-friendly presets take the guesswork out of:
- Fries
- Chicken
- Veggies
- Frozen foods
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a 4-6 quart air fryer good for beginners?
Yes — it’s the sweet spot for ease, capacity, and everyday meals.
Do air fryers need oil?
Only a light spray or none at all — one of the benefits compared to deep frying.
Why do my fries sometimes turn out soggy?
Often overcrowding or skipping shakes mid-cycle. Single layers and occasional shaking help.
Helpful Resources
Best Dual Basket Air Fryers (2026 Guide)
Last updated: February 12, 2026
Dual basket air fryers let you cook two foods at once, each with independent time and temperature settings. That means you can:
- Cook protein and sides together
- Avoid flavor mixing
- Match cook times for different foods
- Reduce total cook time
This guide highlights the top options available now and explains what to look for.
Why Choose A Dual Basket Air Fryer?
Cooking Two Foods Independently
With two baskets, you can cook:
- Chicken in one
- Fries in the other
Each with different settings → no compromise.
Better Meal Timing
No need to finish one item first.
Your entire meal can finish at the same time.
Versatility for Families
Great for households of 3–5 where meals vary per person.
Top Picks For Dual Basket Air Fryers
1. Ninja DZ401 DualZone XL Air Fryer
Best overall dual basket model
Key Features
- Two independent baskets
- Match Cook & Smart Finish functions
- Large combined capacity (~10 qt total)
Best For
- Families and meal prep
- Multi-food cooking at once
Pros
- Excellent performance
- Great internal airflow
- Very consistent results
Cons
- Slightly larger footprint on the counter
2. Instant Vortex Plus 6-Quart Dual Basket Air Fryer
Best for everyday meals
Key Features
- Two 3-qt baskets
- Easy controls
- Even cooking
Best For
- 2–4 person households
- Busy weeknight dinners
Pros
- Compact
- Easy to clean
- Affordable
Cons
- Smaller baskets than high-end models
3. PowerXL Dual Basket Air Fryer
Great value dual air fryer
Key Features
- Independent baskets
- Intuitive buttons
- Basic presets
Best For
- Budget-conscious buyers
- Simple dual cooking
Pros
- Solid performance for the price
- Simple controls
Cons
- Less refined airflow than premium models
4. GoWISE USA Dual Zone Air Fryer
User-friendly multi-basket model
Key Features
- Dual baskets
- Multiple presets
- Digital display
Best For
- Families wanting easy daily cooking
Pros
- Clear controls
- Good for basic meals
Cons
- Larger unit takes more space
How We Picked These Models
Independent Cooking Performance – We looked for models where both baskets produce even results on different foods.
Ease of Use – Controls and presets matter when juggling two baskets.
Capacity & Fit – Better sized for families and meal prep.
Dual Basket vs Single Basket — What’s The Difference?
Dual Basket Benefits
- Cook two foods at once
- Flexibility in temperature and timing
- Less need for batch cooking
Single Basket Benefits
- Usually smaller footprint
- Faster crisping on single dishes
- Often easier cleanup
Who Dual Basket Air Fryers Are Best For
Families – Perfect for meals that involve sides and mains.
Meal Preppers – Cook multiple proteins or veggies in one cycle.
People Who Cook Different Foods – Ideal if your household eats different meals at the same time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do dual basket air fryers use more energy?
Not significantly — they heat independently but are still efficient.
Are they harder to clean?
Slightly — two baskets mean two places to clean, but most are dishwasher-safe.
Can I cook the same food in both baskets?
Yes, you can use them like two separate fryers.