You only need a little oil in an air fryer, but the type matters — both for crisping and for protecting your machine. Here's what to use, what to skip, and why those handy aerosol sprays can do damage.
Key takeaways
Q: What's the best oil for an air fryer?
A: A high-smoke-point oil — avocado, sunflower, vegetable, rapeseed or light (not extra-virgin) olive oil.
Q: Should you use aerosol spray?
A: Avoid shop-bought aerosols — they can strip the non-stick coating. Use a refillable oil mister instead.
Best oils
- Avocado oil — very high smoke point.
- Sunflower, vegetable, rapeseed — neutral and high smoke point.
- Light olive oil — fine; extra-virgin has a lower smoke point.
- How much: a light spritz or brush is plenty.
What to avoid
- Aerosol spray cans — propellants can damage the non-stick coating over time. Use a refillable mister.
- Extra-virgin olive oil at high heat — it has a lower smoke point and can smoke.
- Too much oil — it pools, smokes and stops food crisping. See stopping food sticking.
Frequently asked questions
What's the best oil to use in an air fryer?
A high-smoke-point oil like avocado, sunflower, vegetable, rapeseed or light olive oil. You only need a light spritz or brush.
Why shouldn't you use aerosol spray in an air fryer?
Shop-bought aerosol sprays contain propellants and additives that can build up on and strip the non-stick coating over time. A refillable oil mister is safer.
Can you use olive oil in an air fryer?
Yes — light or regular olive oil is fine. Extra-virgin has a lower smoke point, so it can smoke at high air-fryer temperatures.