The air fryer accessories worth buying are perforated parchment liners, a silicone basket liner or mat, a set of silicone tongs, and an oil spray bottle. These few items make cooking and cleaning easier without cluttering your kitchen. Most other accessories, like elaborate rack kits, are optional and often go unused, so start with the basics and add more only if you need them.
The most useful air fryer accessories are perforated parchment liners, a silicone liner, silicone tongs and an oil spray bottle. They cut cleaning and protect the basket. Skip bulky rack kits unless you cook in layers often.
- Most useful: perforated parchment liners
- Best for cleaning: silicone basket liner
- Best for handling: silicone-tipped tongs
- Skip: accessories that do not fit your basket size
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Accessories Worth Buying
| Accessory | Why it helps | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| Perforated parchment liners | Less cleaning, airflow continues | Weigh down, do not preheat empty |
| Silicone basket liner | Reusable, protects coating | Must fit your basket and airflow |
| Silicone-tipped tongs | Safe handling, no scratching | Avoid metal on coatings |
| Oil spray bottle | Light, even oil coating | Use food-safe oils |
Key Takeaway: The best accessories cut cleaning and protect the coating. Buy liners and silicone tools first, and only add racks if you genuinely cook in layers.
1. Perforated Parchment Liners
Perforated parchment liners catch grease and crumbs while letting air flow through the holes. They make cleanup faster for sticky and saucy foods. Always weigh them down with food and never preheat with an empty liner, which can lift into the element.
2. Silicone Basket Liner or Mat
A reusable silicone liner protects the basket coating and makes cleaning easy. Choose one sized for your basket so it does not block airflow. It is a good alternative to disposable parchment for everyday use.
3. Silicone-Tipped Tongs
Silicone-tipped tongs let you turn and lift food without scratching the nonstick coating. They are safer and gentler than metal tongs, which can damage the basket.
4. Oil Spray Bottle
A refillable spray bottle gives a light, even oil coating, which crisps fresh foods without oversaturating them. Use food-safe oils and avoid aerosol sprays with additives that can damage some coatings.
Accessories You Can Usually Skip
- Large multi-layer rack kits, unless you regularly cook in layers.
- Novelty silicone moulds you will rarely use.
- Accessories that do not fit your specific basket size.
- Metal tools, which scratch coatings.
Safety Notes
- Never preheat with an empty liner; airflow can lift it into the element.
- Always weigh liners down with food.
- Use silicone or wood tools, not metal, on coated baskets.
- Make sure any accessory fits without blocking airflow.
FAQ
What accessories do you really need for an air fryer?
You really need very few: perforated parchment liners, a silicone liner, silicone tongs and an oil spray bottle. These cover cleaning, handling and oiling without clutter.
Are silicone liners safe in an air fryer?
Yes, food-safe silicone liners sized for your basket are safe and reusable. Make sure the liner does not block the airflow holes.
Do you need parchment paper in an air fryer?
You do not need it, but perforated parchment liners make cleanup easier for sticky foods. Always weigh them down and never preheat with an empty liner.
Bottom Line
Start with perforated parchment liners, a silicone liner, silicone tongs and an oil spray bottle, and skip bulky extras until you need them. These few accessories make air frying easier and protect your basket. To choose an air fryer, see our best air fryers guide.
