Just bought your first air fryer? Good choice. It is one of the simplest appliances to learn, but a few first-time steps make a big difference to your results. This guide walks you through unboxing, the all-important first clean, basic settings and a beginner-friendly cooking chart so your very first batch comes out crisp and golden.
Step 1: Unbox and Clean Before First Use
Remove all packaging, stickers and foam from inside the basket. Wash the basket and tray with warm soapy water, rinse and dry fully. Wipe the interior chamber with a damp cloth. Never submerge the main body in water. This first clean removes any manufacturing residue and protects the non-stick coating.
Step 2: Run It Empty Once
Place the empty air fryer on a heat-safe, level surface with space around the back vents. Run it empty at 180°C for about 10 minutes. This burns off any factory smell. A slight odour on the first run is normal and harmless.
Step 3: Learn the Basic Controls
- Temperature: Most cooking happens between 160°C and 200°C.
- Timer: Sets how long it cooks; the fryer usually stops automatically when done.
- Preheat: Run for 2 to 3 minutes before adding food for the crispiest results.
- Presets (if any): One-touch programs for fries, chicken or snacks.
Step 4: Beginner Cooking Chart
| Food | Temperature | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Frozen fries | 200°C | 15–18 min |
| Chicken / paneer tikka | 180°C | 12–15 min |
| Samosa / frozen snacks | 180°C | 8–12 min |
| Roasted vegetables | 180°C | 12–15 min |
| Reheating leftovers | 160°C | 4–6 min |
Step 5: Cook Your First Batch
- Preheat for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Lightly toss food in a little oil if you want extra crunch.
- Add food in a single layer — do not overcrowd the basket.
- Set the temperature and time from the chart above.
- Shake or flip halfway through for even browning.
- Check doneness before serving and add a couple of minutes if needed.
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Beginner Tips for Crisp Results
- Pat food dry before cooking — surface moisture stops it crisping.
- Use a light oil spray rather than pouring oil into the basket.
- Cook in batches instead of overloading; airflow is everything.
- Clean the basket after each use to keep the coating intact.
- Avoid metal utensils that can scratch the non-stick surface.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to wash a new air fryer before using it?
Yes. Wash the basket and tray with warm soapy water and wipe the chamber before the first use to remove factory residue.
Should I always preheat the air fryer?
Preheating for 2 to 3 minutes gives crisper results, especially for fries and frozen snacks. For reheating, it is optional.
Why does my air fryer smell on the first use?
A faint burning smell on the first run is normal as factory oils burn off. Running it empty at 180°C for 10 minutes clears it.
Can I use oil in an air fryer?
Yes, a light spray or toss of oil improves crunch. Never fill the basket with oil as you would a deep fryer.
How do I stop food sticking?
Use a lightly oiled basket, avoid overcrowding and do not let food sit on the base too long. A clean non-stick basket helps a lot.