You’re halfway through preheating your air fryer, feeling quite pleased with your healthy dinner plans — and then it hits you.
That unmistakable plastic smell.
If you’ve ever wondered, “Why does my air fryer smell like plastic?” you’re definitely not alone. It’s one of the most common concerns new air fryer owners have, especially in the first few uses. The good news? In most cases, it’s completely normal — and easy to fix.
Let’s look at what causes the smell, how to get rid of it quickly, and whether it’s something you should actually worry about.
Is a Plastic Smell from an Air Fryer Normal?
Yes — a plastic smell is very common, particularly with brand-new air fryers.
Most new appliances give off an odour when they’re first used, and air fryers are no exception. The smell usually appears during the first one to three cooking cycles and fades as the appliance “beds in”.
That said, the smell shouldn’t be overpowering, smoky, or long-lasting. If it continues well beyond the first few uses, it’s worth investigating further — which we’ll get to shortly.
Why Does My Air Fryer Smell Like Plastic?
There isn’t just one cause. In fact, several perfectly normal factors can contribute to that plastic-like smell.
1. Protective Manufacturing Residue
During production, air fryers are coated with protective oils, lubricants, and finishing agents. These prevent damage during transport and storage.
When the appliance heats up for the first time, these residues burn off slightly — creating that unpleasant but temporary smell.
2. Heating of New Plastic Components
Even high-quality air fryers contain heat-resistant plastic parts, particularly in the outer housing and handle. When exposed to heat for the first few times, these materials can release a mild odour.
This doesn’t mean the plastic is melting or unsafe — it’s simply reacting to heat for the first time.
3. Packaging Materials Left Behind
Occasionally, small bits of packaging film, labels, or adhesive residue remain on or near heating elements. Once heated, these can smell far worse than they look.
Always double-check that all packaging has been fully removed, including inside the basket and around vents.
4. Poor Ventilation During First Use
Using a new air fryer in a small or poorly ventilated kitchen can trap odours and make them seem stronger than they actually are.
Opening a window or running an extractor fan can make a noticeable difference.
How to Get Rid of the Plastic Smell Quickly
If your air fryer smells like plastic, don’t panic — try these simple steps first.
Run an Empty Heat Cycle
Before cooking food for the first time:
- Remove all packaging and accessories
- Set the air fryer to 200°C
- Run it empty for 10–15 minutes
This helps burn off any leftover manufacturing residue.
Wash All Removable Parts
Clean the basket, tray, and drawer using:
- Warm water
- Mild washing-up liquid
- A soft sponge
Dry everything thoroughly before reassembling.
Use Lemon or Vinegar
To neutralise lingering smells:
- Place lemon slices or a small bowl of white vinegar inside the basket
- Run the air fryer for 5 minutes at 180°C
This trick is particularly popular in UK kitchens — and surprisingly effective.
Is the Plastic Smell Dangerous?
In most cases, no.
A mild plastic smell during early use is not harmful and does not release toxic fumes when used correctly. Modern air fryers sold in the UK must meet strict safety and material standards.
However, you should stop using the air fryer immediately if:
- The smell is very strong or burning
- You see smoke (not steam)
- The smell persists after several uses
- The plastic appears warped or melted
If that happens, contact the retailer or manufacturer rather than pushing through it.
Does the Plastic Smell Affect Food?
A light smell during preheating won’t usually affect food flavour, especially if you’ve already run a few empty cycles.
That said, if you’re concerned:
- Avoid cooking delicate foods (like pastries) during the first few uses
- Start with foods that have stronger aromas, such as chips or roasted vegetables
Once the smell disappears, your air fryer should cook exactly as intended.
FAQ: Common Air Fryer Smell Questions
Why does my air fryer smell like plastic every time I use it?
If the smell continues after multiple uses, it could be due to trapped grease, food residue, or poor airflow. Regular cleaning usually solves the issue.
Can I use my air fryer straight out of the box?
Technically, yes, but it’s always best to clean and heat it empty first. This improves performance and removes unwanted smells.
Practical Tips to Keep Your Air Fryer Smelling Fresh
Once the new-appliance smell is gone, a few good habits will keep your air fryer in top condition:
- Clean the basket and tray after every use
- Wipe down the interior weekly
- Avoid overcrowding food
- Store the air fryer with the drawer slightly open to prevent odours
Using good-quality accessories can also make cleaning easier and extend the life of your appliance. At Home Pet Essentials, we stock practical kitchen and home products designed to make everyday cooking simpler — including accessories that help keep appliances clean and running smoothly.
The Bottom Line
If you’re asking, “Why does my air fryer smell like plastic?”, the answer is usually reassuringly simple: it’s normal, temporary, and easy to fix.
With a proper first clean, a short heat cycle, and good ventilation, the smell should disappear quickly — leaving you to enjoy all the benefits of air frying without worry.
And once it’s broken in, your air fryer should be one of the most reliable and convenient appliances in your kitchen.
