Air fryers have become a kitchen staple for their convenience and ability to crisp up food with little oil. But if you’re using parchment paper in your air fryer, you could be making a mistake that poses a real fire risk.
The Hidden Danger: Unsecured Parchment Paper
The main hazard comes from placing parchment paper in the air fryer without weighing it down with food. Air fryers use powerful fans to circulate hot air, and if parchment paper isn’t anchored by enough food, it can easily get blown around. If the loose paper touches the heating element, it can ignite—potentially damaging your appliance or even causing a kitchen fire1235.
“If there’s nothing on the paper it gets blown around and up onto the heating element, and then it will catch on fire once it touches that.” 1
Dos and Don’ts for Safe Use
Do:
- Always place food on top of the parchment paper. The weight of the food keeps the paper in place so it can’t fly up into the heating element123.
- Use perforated parchment paper. This ensures proper air circulation and reduces the risk of the paper blocking airflow or moving around36.
- Trim the paper to fit the basket. Cut it slightly smaller than the basket to avoid contact with the sides or heating element25.
- Check the temperature rating. Only use parchment paper labeled as “air fryer safe” and never exceed its maximum temperature limit (usually 420–450°F / 215–230°C)236.
- Monitor the air fryer while in use. Especially when using parchment paper, keep an eye out for signs of smoke or burning5.
Don’t:
- Never preheat your air fryer with parchment paper inside and no food on top. The paper can blow around and catch fire12.
- Don’t overload with large or excess paper. Too much paper can block airflow and increase fire risk23.
- Don’t use parchment paper for foods that require flipping or stirring. This increases the chance that the paper will shift and become a hazard3.
Consider Safer Alternatives
If you use parchment paper frequently, consider switching to reusable silicone liners made specifically for air fryers. They stay in place, are heat-resistant, and eliminate the risk of fire or chemical release2.
Bottom Line
Parchment paper can make cleanup easier and prevent sticking, but only if used correctly. Always weigh it down with food, use the right type, and never leave your air fryer unattended when using paper liners. A little caution goes a long way in keeping your kitchen safe and your air fryer working its best.
- https://www.reddit.com/r/airfryer/comments/ugftoe/parchment_paper_caught_on_fire_inside/
- https://www.allrecipes.com/can-you-use-parchment-paper-in-an-air-fryer-7511363
- https://parchmentpaper.co.uk/parchment-paper-safe-for-air-fryer/
- https://www.mestaek.com/article/are-air-fryer-baking-paper-liners-safe-at-high-temperatures.html
- https://airfryermom.com/can-you-use-parchment-paper-in-an-air-fryer/
- https://allkitchenthing.com/are-air-fryer-liners-safe/
- https://en.mui.kitchen/cookingtips/Watch-Out-for-Parchment-Paper-Why-You-Shouldnt-Use-It-in-Your-Air-Fryer-20250518-0013.html