You wash the basket, wipe the tray and dry everything properly, yet the next time you switch on the air fryer, a faint whiff of last week’s fish, masala or burnt oil still drifts out. It is a common frustration. Air fryers use hot circulating air, so grease and food particles easily settle in corners, on the heating element and in the fan area, where a regular wash does not reach. The good news is that a few simple, natural steps can clear the smell without damaging the appliance. Here is a five-step guide to getting your air fryer smelling fresh again.