Can You Use Parchment Paper in an Air Fryer?

You can use parchment paper in an air fryer when it is rated for the selected temperature, held down by food and does not block airflow. A loose sheet can lift towards the heating element and burn. The key rule is simple: never preheat with an unsecured liner.

When parchment paper helps

A suitable liner can help lift delicate food, catch a sticky marinade and simplify cleaning. It is useful for soy and honey salmon, baked feta or some desserts.

The bare basket is better for fries, vegetables and breaded food because its holes let air reach the underside and improve crisping.

How to use it safely

1. Check the maximum temperature printed on the packaging.
2. Cut the sheet slightly smaller than the basket floor.
3. Add holes or choose a perforated liner to preserve airflow.
4. Insert it only when food can hold it down.
5. Keep all edges away from the heating element and hot walls.

Do not use wax paper: its coating is not designed for this heat. Avoid liners that rise high around food or cover the entire crisper plate.

Paper, silicone or a bare basket?

Option	Advantage	Limitation
Bare basket	Maximum airflow	May take longer to clean
Perforated parchment	Easy release, fewer residues	Single use and must be weighted
Perforated silicone mat	Reusable	May reduce crisping if thick

Choose according to the texture you want. For homemade fries, use the bare basket. For cake in a tin, parchment inside the tin does not stop air moving around it.

Cleaning and alternatives

Paper does not replace cleaning: fat and crumbs can pass around the edges. Follow our complete cleaning method after the appliance cools.

Measure your basket before buying pre-cut liners. Compare sizes, mats and tins in our compatible accessory selection, then read our essential accessory guide to avoid unnecessary gadgets.