What are the safest materials to use in an air fryer? Glass, silicone, metal and non-stick explained

Whether you’re using a dual air fryer or a single model, getting to grips with what you can safely put inside isn’t always straightforward.

If you’re constantly wondering exactly what you can put inside your air fryer, you’re not alone. Along with sharing tips on the best air fryer cookbooks and their favourite family dishes, many Mumsnet users have asked which materials and accessories are safe to use, and which are best left out. 

With high temperatures and powerful air circulation, air fryers need the right accessories to work properly. The wrong ones can deform, crack or melt, or block the airflow. 

Isabella Forgione, Small Appliances Expert at AO.com, says: “When choosing materials for an air fryer, it's important to look for ones that can safely withstand high temperatures while allowing air to circulate freely around the food. Stainless steel, oven-safe silicone, heat-resistant glass and ceramic are all popular options, but it's always worth checking the manufacturer's guidance before use to ensure they're suitable for your appliance.”

“It’s essential for both food safety and cooking results to understand how different materials react before introducing accessories like bakeware or liners into your air fryer”, explains Patrick Lucereau, Tefal Marketing Director,

In this guide, we’ve tapped into Mumsnet user experiences and expert insights to give you the lowdown on the safest materials to use in an air fryer. We’ve also investigated options for those looking to avoid plastics or heavily coated cookware, helping you cook with more confidence.

Can you put glass in the air fryer?

Glass is safe to put in an air fryer, but only if it’s labelled as oven-safe or air fryer compatible, designed to withstand your air fryer's temperature and fits safely without blocking airflow. 

Heat-resistant glass, such as tempered or borosilicate glass, can be a good choice for an air fryer because it's more resistant to thermal and mechanical stress; however, the most important thing to check is its temperature resistance, which is usually specified on the label.  

Glass containers are ideal for heating batch-cooked meals, leftovers and desserts. Mumsnet users love how they reduce the amount of washing up, moving seamlessly from fridge and freezer storage to reheating and onto the table, without needing multiple containers.

“To avoid cracking,” shares Forgione, “always choose oven-safe products and avoid moving them straight from the fridge into a hot air fryer.”

Placing a very cold glass container straight from the fridge into the intense heat of your air fryer can cause a rapid temperature change, stressing the glass and potentially causing it to crack or shatter. 

You should not use:

• Glass that isn’t labelled oven or air fryer safe 

• Glass that is chipped, cracked or damaged

• A glass dish of a size that blocks or significantly restricts air circulation

• A glass dish with a plastic lid that isn’t heat-safe. Remove the lid if in doubt

• A glass dish above its specified temperature limit 

“I now have a stash of IKEA glass containers - which are amazing, they can go in the freezer, in the oven, in the air fryer, in the microwave, in the dishwasher and they never smell or warp or anything. And they stack beautifully. I also save glass jars and use those - totally free and amazing.” Product range recommended by Mumsnet user 60sCoffeeTable 

Can Pyrex go in the air fryer?

Many Pyrex products are safe to use in the air fryer; however, you should check each product's full specifications. For example, remove plastic lids from Pyrex dishes beforehand. 

Some Mumsnet users find glass and traditional Pyrex dishes tricky to remove. 

“You can use traditional cookware like Pyrex, which I do use occasionally. But I find it difficult to manoeuvre them out of the drawer at the end of cooking. So I mostly use foil trays which are easy to pick up with tongs or an oven glove.” AdaColeman

Helpfully, Pyrex has released several dishes designed specifically for air-fryer use. This PYREX® Glass Air Fryer Dish with Removable Handle is compatible with most dual- and single-basket air fryers, with a removable clip-on stainless steel handle that makes it easier to remove when hot.

Is silicone safe in an air fryer? 

Food-grade silicone is safe to use in an air fryer. 

“Silicone accessories are popular because they're reusable and easy to clean,” explains Forgione. “They're particularly useful for baking and cooking delicate foods, provided they're rated for the temperatures your air fryer reaches.”

“One detail to keep in mind,” shares Patrick Lucereau, Tefal Marketing Director, “is that thick silicone acts as a mild thermal insulator, shielding food from direct hot air and reducing optimal air circulation, which may slightly extend your cooking times or reduce the ultimate crispiness of items like chips or pastry.”

What Mumsnet users say

“I use a silicone basket for cooking a couple of fish fingers or something in, as they do keep the main basket clean, and then I put the silicone one in the dishwasher, but they are a bit floppy and get very hot, so you have to handle them carefully. The advantage of the silicone baskets is they can be used in the microwave, e.g. for defrosting food, then straight into the air fryer for cooking”. Mothew 

Can you use ceramic in an air fryer?

Oven-safe ceramic cookware can generally be used in an air fryer, but you should check the specifications, as some are not intended for cooking at high temperatures. Also consider sizing, as large ceramic containers may restrict airflow in the air fryer basket or drawer. 

“Avoid using decorative or vintage ceramic pieces.” explains Lucereau, “as their glazes may not be designed to withstand high-velocity convection heat. Similarly, avoid any pieces that have metallic trims and paints or glued components, as the heat can cause damage to the vessel and the appliance.”

Is stainless steel safe?

Yes, stainless steel is a durable material that's safe for use in an air fryer and can withstand high temperatures. 

“Stainless steel is one of the most versatile materials for air fryer cooking,” shares Forgione. “It's durable, conducts heat efficiently and is less likely to warp over time, making it a reliable choice for racks, trays and baking accessories.”

“Size is the critical factor here,” explains Lucereau “Always ensure there is a clear 1 to 2-inch gap around the edges of the dish so that it isn’t touching the heating element or blocking any airflow. Air fryers rely on powerful, forced air circulation, so blocking that airflow with an oversized metal dish will lead to unevenly cooked food.”

Without a non-stick coating, you may find that food residue is harder to remove.  

Air fryers like the Ninja Crispi and Ninja Crispi Pro already have glassware containers for cooking

Should you put plastic in an air fryer?

As a general rule, plastic isn't designed for high temperatures and shouldn't be used in an air fryer. Don’t be misled. Microwave-safe plastic is not the same as oven- or air fryer-safe.

What about parchment paper and liners?

Liners are great for convenience, catching drips and crumbs inside your air fryer basket and making cleaning up a doddle. That said, a liner can reduce the air circulation, which can make food less crisp than cooking without one. 

- shellyleppard 

“Liners should always sit on top of the crisper plate or grate rather than underneath it,” explains Forgione. “Positioning a liner correctly helps maintain airflow around the food, which is key to achieving the crisp, even results air fryers are known for.”

However, it's worth checking whether parchment paper suits your appliance. For example, Philips advises against it due to the risk of burns. 

Forgione adds, “Parchment paper can be a useful tool for reducing mess, but it should always be secured with food before cooking. The air fryer's powerful fan can lift loose paper and could come into contact with the heating element.”

 If you choose to use a liner, you should:

• Use the correct type and temperature rating

• Don't cover the entire basket if doing so blocks airflow

• Don't use loose paper during preheating

• Keep paper or foil away from the heating element

• Make sure it is held securely by food

• Follow your specific air fryer's instructions

“If you’re on a budget, a downside to a paper liner is that they are typically single-use”, shares Lucereau, “so you’ll have to keep repurchasing as opposed to a material you can clean and re-use.” 

Are non-stick air fryer baskets safe?

“Many air fryers already feature a non-stick basket, which helps prevent food sticking and makes cleaning easier,” shares Forgione.

When used according to the manufacturer's instructions, non-stick air fryer baskets can withstand the high temperatures in your air fryer. 

If you’re concerned about PFAS, however, you may want to check the full specifications before buying.

What are PFAS?

PFAS stands for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances – a large group of manufactured chemicals used in products including some non-stick cookware and food packaging. They have useful properties including resistance to water, grease, stains and high temperatures.

PFAS are sometimes referred to as ‘forever chemicals’ because they are extremely persistent and do not break down easily in the environment. As a result, they can accumulate and are now widely found in soil, water, air, food and wildlife.

Should you avoid PFAS?

There’s no single answer. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) says there is growing concern about PFAS exposure, but few studies examine the long-term health effects of many PFAS. PFAS can also be found in food, drinking water, air, dust and a wide range of everyday products.

If you’d prefer to minimise your exposure to PFAS, choose an air fryer or cooking accessories explicitly labelled PFAS-free, such as the Ninja CRISPi Pro. Alternatively, look for models with glass or stainless-steel cooking surfaces rather than non-stick coatings.

Are scratched air fryer baskets safe?

If you use a non-stick air fryer, follow the manufacturer's instructions, avoid damaging the coating and don't use it above its recommended temperature.

“To keep the coating in good condition, avoid using metal utensils and opt for silicone, wooden or other non-scratch tools instead,” shares Forgione. 

Are air fryers toxic?

Air fryers aren't inherently toxic, but as with any cooking appliance, safe use depends on following the manufacturer's instructions and paying attention to materials, coatings and temperature limits. 

What is the safest material to cook with in an air fryer?

There's no single safest material to use in an air fryer. The best choice depends on its temperature rating, how you use it and whether it's approved for your appliance.

Whichever material you choose, check that it's labelled oven-safe and suitable for the temperatures your air fryer reaches, and make sure it doesn't block airflow around the food. Avoid anything cracked, damaged or warped, and anything not intended for high-temperature cooking.

About the author 

Lucy Cotterill is a mum of two and a Content Writer at Mumsnet, specialising in family and kitchen product reviews and round-ups. Having written reviews on her blog Real Mum Reviews since 2012, Lucy loves to research and explore the pros and cons of products, scrutinising expert guidance and consumer feedback to help parents make confident purchases that benefit their families.

A fan of quick and easy family meals, Lucy has tried and tested several air fryers, including her personal favourite, the Ninja Foodi Health Grill. She’s also written numerous Mumsnet Swears By guides on air fryers, including the best dual air fryers and best air fryers for two people.

Read next:

• Best air fryer

• Best kettle

• Best dual air fryers