It's a common beginner question, and the answer surprises people: an air fryer isn't a steamer, so you don't add water to cook. But there's one genuinely useful exception. Here it is.
Key takeaways
Q: Do you put water in an air fryer?
A: No for normal cooking — it crisps with hot air, not steam. The exception: a tablespoon in the drawer beneath the basket stops fatty foods smoking.
Q: Will water damage it?
A: Water in the bottom drawer is fine. Never pour water onto the heating element or into the controls.
Why not normally
An air fryer cooks by circulating hot, dry air — that's what makes food crisp. Adding water to the basket would steam the food and stop it browning, the opposite of what you want. So for everyday cooking, keep it dry.
The one exception
When cooking fatty foods like bacon, sausages or burgers, the dripping fat can hit the hot element and smoke. A tablespoon of water in the drawer underneath the basket stops this — the fat lands in the water instead of burning. It's the simplest fix for a smoking air fryer.
For the full rundown on smoke, see why your air fryer smokes, and if you're new to it all, start with how to use an air fryer.
Frequently asked questions
Do you put water in the bottom of an air fryer?
Only when cooking fatty foods — a tablespoon in the drawer beneath the basket catches dripping fat and stops it smoking. Otherwise, keep it dry.
Can you steam food in an air fryer?
No — it cooks with hot air, not steam, so it isn't a steamer. Adding water to the basket just stops food crisping.
Is it safe to put water in an air fryer?
In the bottom drawer, yes. Never pour water directly onto the heating element or near the controls.