Can You Put Plastic in an Air Fryer?

No. Almost no household plastic survives 180-200°C, and melting plastic contaminates both the food and the appliance.

Updated 9 September 2026

Not recommended

No. Almost no household plastic survives 180-200°C, and melting plastic contaminates both the food and the appliance.

No. Almost no household plastic survives 180-200°C, and melting plastic contaminates both the food and the appliance. Below is exactly how to do it and what to expect.

How to do it

  1. 1Move food into an oven-safe glass, ceramic or metal dish first. Takeaway containers, cling film and plastic tubs all stay out.

Tips for the best results

  • What to expect: Melted plastic on the basket and element, and a smell that lingers. Even microwave-safe plastic is not air-fryer safe - the temperatures are far higher.

The verdict

Not recommended. No. Almost no household plastic survives 180-200°C, and melting plastic contaminates both the food and the appliance. Melted plastic on the basket and element, and a smell that lingers. Even microwave-safe plastic is not air-fryer safe - the temperatures are far higher.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you air fry plastic?+

Not recommended. No. Almost no household plastic survives 180-200°C, and melting plastic contaminates both the food and the appliance.

What should I do instead?+

Move food into an oven-safe glass, ceramic or metal dish first. Takeaway containers, cling film and plastic tubs all stay out.

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