The Materials Traffic Light
The ultimate guide on what you can and CANNOT put in your air fryer basket. Avoid kitchen disasters and protect your appliance.
The Golden Rule: What to use?
Generally, any oven-safe container can be used in an air fryer (tempered glass, ceramic, silicone, metal). However, due to the violent cyclonic airflow, never insert lightweight materials without weight on them (like parchment paper alone) or low-melting-point materials like plastic.
Parchment Paper
Yes, but use it perforated and ALWAYS weighted down by food. Never put it in during preheating or it will fly into the heating element and catch fire.
Aluminum Foil
Yes, but avoid contact with highly acidic foods (like tomatoes or lemon). Ensure it is secured and does not completely block airflow.
Silicone Molds
Perfect. Silicone withstands high temperatures and is the best material for baking or keeping the basket clean.
Oven-Safe Glass / Ceramic
If it explicitly says 'Oven Safe', it's air fryer safe. Just make sure there is space around the edges for air to circulate.
Wooden Toothpicks
They can burn or fly into the heating element. Use them only if firmly secured in food or soak them in water for 10 minutes before use.
Plastic and Tupperware
Absolutely not. They will melt in seconds, fusing with your food and destroying the appliance.
Paper Towels
Never. They will catch fire instantly due to the powerful flow of hot air.
Non-tempered Glass
Regular glass will shatter due to the rapid and violent thermal shock typical of air fryers.
ℹ️ Information Note
The instructions in this guide are based on practical tests and general guidelines. Always check your specific air fryer model's manual before proceeding.