Choosing the right paper for your air fryer basket comes down to heat tolerance and airflow, not just convenience. If you are wondering what paper can i put in the air fryer, the short answer is parchment paper made specifically for high heat, or perforated air fryer liners. Regular wax paper and most baking paper with low heat ratings will melt, burn, or release unwanted fumes.
This guide walks you through safe paper choices, what to avoid, and how to use each option without blocking the air flow that makes air frying work.
What Paper Can I Put In The Air Fryer
Not every paper belongs in a hot air fryer. The basket gets very hot, often between 300°F and 400°F, and the heating element sits close to the food. That means your paper needs a high heat tolerance and it must not block the vents or fan.
Here are the paper types that are generally safe when used correctly:
- Parchment paper rated for 425°F or higher
- Perforated parchment liners designed for air fryers
- Unbleached parchment paper with no wax coating
- Aluminum foil (technically a metal, but often grouped with liners)
Each one has trade-offs. Parchment is the most popular because it is nonstick and cheap. Perforated liners let air pass through, which keeps your food crispy. Foil is sturdy but can scratch some nonstick baskets.
Why Heat Rating Matters More Than Brand
You might see parchment paper sold as “baking paper” with a max temperature of 400°F. In an air fryer, the heating element can push past that number. If the paper touches the element, it can catch fire even if the paper is rated for the oven.
Always check the box for a temperature rating. If it says 425°F or 450°F, you are safer. If it says 400°F or lower, use it only at lower settings and never let it touch the top element.
What About Wax Paper And Butcher Paper
Wax paper is a hard no. The wax coating melts at around 200°F and can smoke or ignite. Butcher paper is usually untreated and can handle some heat, but it is not nonstick and it can dry out food. It also does not have a standard heat rating for air fryers, so skip it unless the package says it is air fryer safe.
How To Use Parchment Paper Safely In An Air Fryer
Even the right paper can cause problems if you use it wrong. Follow these steps every time.
- Preheat the air fryer without any paper inside. Loose paper can fly up into the heating element.
- Cut or fold the parchment so it fits flat inside the basket. It should not stick up the sides.
- Place food on top of the paper. The weight keeps the paper from blowing around.
- Leave at least one inch of space around the edges for air to circulate.
- Never use parchment at a temperature higher than its rated limit.
- Check on the paper after a few minutes the first time you use a new brand.
If you use perforated liners, you can skip some of the cutting. They are already sized for common air fryer baskets and have holes that let air through. Just make sure the holes are not so large that small food falls through.
Can You Put Paper Towels In An Air Fryer
No. Paper towels are not heat resistant. They can burn, smoke, and leave a mess. Some people put a damp paper towel under food to catch grease, but in an air fryer the fan will suck it up into the element. Use a proper liner instead.
What About Coffee Filters Or Newspaper
Coffee filters are thin and can tear easily. They are not rated for high heat and they block airflow. Newspaper has ink and chemicals that should never touch your food. Avoid both.
Common Mistakes With Air Fryer Paper
Most problems come from three things: wrong paper, wrong size, or wrong temperature.
- Using parchment that is too large and touches the heating coil
- Putting paper in during preheat with no food on top
- Reusing greasy paper for a second batch
- Covering the entire basket bottom so air cannot move
- Using paper with a lower heat rating than your cooking temperature
If you see smoke or smell burning, turn off the air fryer and let it cool. Do not open the basket while it is hot if paper is inside, because the rush of air can push the paper into the element.
Do You Even Need Paper In An Air Fryer
Not always. Many air fryer baskets are nonstick and easy to wash. Paper is mainly for easy cleanup, preventing sticking, and keeping small foods from falling through the grate. If you are cooking greasy food like bacon, paper can help catch some oil, but it can also pool grease and cause smoke. In that case, use a perforated liner or skip paper and drain the basket after cooking.
Best Paper Choices For Different Foods
Different foods need different paper setups. Here is a quick guide.
- Fries and nuggets: perforated parchment liner for crispiness
- Fish and vegetables: standard parchment cut to fit
- Bacon: perforated liner or no paper, drain grease
- Baked goods: parchment with a 425°F rating or higher
- Small pieces like chickpeas: parchment to stop them falling through
When in doubt, use less paper. A smaller piece that sits under the food is safer than a large sheet that curls up. You can also poke a few holes in regular parchment with a fork to improve airflow.
Can You Use Aluminum Foil Instead
Yes, foil is safe in an air fryer, but it has rules. Do not cover the entire basket, or you block air flow. Do not let foil touch the heating element. Do not use foil with acidic foods like tomatoes for long periods, because it can react and leave a metallic taste. Foil is great for wrapping foods or lining the bottom with holes poked in it.
Final Safety Checklist Before You Cook
Run through this list every time you use paper in your air fryer.
- Paper is rated for at least 425°F.
- Paper fits flat and does not touch the top element.
- Food is on top of the paper, not under it.
- Air can still move around the edges.
- You never preheat with loose paper inside.
- You check the basket after two or three minutes.
Follow those steps and you can use parchment or perforated liners without worry. Avoid wax paper, paper towels, and anything with a low heat rating. When you get the paper right, your air fryer stays clean and your food stays crispy.