Liners save on cleaning and stop food sticking, but there's one safety rule that matters more than any other. Here's what's safe and how to use them.
Key takeaways
Q: Are air fryer liners safe?
A: Yes — parchment and silicone liners are safe when weighed down by food and used within the temperature limit. The danger is a loose liner blowing into the element.
Q: Can you preheat with a liner in?
A: No — never run an empty liner. It can lift in the airflow and touch the heating element.
What's safe
- Perforated parchment liners — let air circulate and stay put under food.
- Silicone liners rated for the temperature.
- Within the temperature limit printed on the pack.
The golden rule
Never put an empty liner in and turn the air fryer on. The fan creates strong airflow, and a loose liner can lift up and hit the heating element, where it can scorch or catch. Always weigh a liner down with food, and add it only when you're ready to cook.
Prefer foil? See can you use foil in an air fryer, and for sticky foods, how to stop food sticking.
Frequently asked questions
Are parchment liners safe in an air fryer?
Yes, when weighed down by food and used within their temperature limit. Use perforated liners so air can still circulate.
Can you preheat an air fryer with a liner?
No — never run an empty liner. The airflow can lift it into the heating element, where it may scorch or catch. Add it only with food on top.
Are silicone air fryer liners safe?
Yes — silicone liners rated for air fryer temperatures are safe and reusable, and they don't blow around like paper.