The air fryer has become a beloved kitchen companion for millions around the world. With its ability to “fry” foods using little to no oil, it has revolutionized meal prep for busy households, health-conscious eaters, and even professional chefs.
But while the appliance is praised for its convenience, a viral social media post is drawing attention to a dangerous—and surprisingly common—mistake that could have serious consequences.
A Facebook post from May 12, shared by the lifestyle page SheShines, features a striking image: a black air fryer engulfed in flames on a kitchen countertop, with smoke billowing toward the ceiling.
The caption reads, “Everyone has made this mistake when using an air fryer. Check 1st comment.” The dramatic photo quickly caught the attention of users, amassing hundreds of shares and comments within hours.
While the post doesn’t immediately reveal what the mistake is, experts in home safety and appliance use have pointed to several common missteps that can turn this helpful gadget into a fire hazard. And unfortunately, many users may be unknowingly repeating these risky habits in their kitchens.
The Most Common Mistake? Misusing Parchment Paper
One of the most frequent causes of air fryer fires is the improper use of parchment paper. Designed to make cleanup easier and prevent food from sticking, parchment paper has become a popular accessory among air fryer fans.
However, when used incorrectly—especially when placed in the basket without food to weigh it down—it can easily get sucked into the heating element, ignite, and start a fire.
“Air fryers operate using powerful convection heat,” explains appliance safety consultant Lauren Nguyen. “If you place loose parchment paper inside without securing it with food, the airflow can push it straight into the heating coil, where it can catch fire instantly.”
Overcrowding the Basket Can Lead to Overheating
Another serious mistake is overloading the air fryer basket with too much food. While it might be tempting to cook everything at once, packing the basket too tightly blocks the hot air from circulating properly. This can not only leave food undercooked but also cause the device to overheat.
In extreme cases, overheating can trigger an internal malfunction, damaging the appliance and increasing the risk of fire.
Poor Ventilation and Placement
Many people make the error of placing their air fryer in a corner or against a wall on the countertop. This blocks the air vents that are essential for releasing excess heat. Without proper airflow, the temperature inside the appliance can rise to dangerous levels.
“Always ensure your air fryer has at least 5 inches of space around all sides when in use,” Nguyen advises. “Keep it away from walls, curtains, or other flammable materials.”
Leaving the Appliance Unattended
Despite being marketed as a “set-it-and-forget-it” device, experts caution against leaving the air fryer running unattended. Like ovens, toasters, or any other heat-generating appliance, air fryers can malfunction.
A short circuit, food jam, or grease buildup can all lead to sudden flare-ups, especially if no one is around to notice.
The image in the viral Facebook post appears to show just such a scenario: an unattended air fryer catching fire on the countertop, with no immediate intervention.
Neglecting Regular Cleaning
Air fryers need to be cleaned thoroughly after each use. Crumbs, grease, and food debris that accumulate in the basket and at the bottom of the unit can become flammable over time. When exposed to repeated high heat, this residue can ignite.
“People forget that just because there’s no oil splatter doesn’t mean there’s no mess,” says Nguyen. “Grease buildup is one of the most overlooked fire hazards.”
How to Use an Air Fryer Safely
If used correctly, air fryers are still among the safest kitchen appliances. Here are some key safety tips to keep in mind:
- Read the manual. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for use, maintenance, and cleaning.
- Use parchment paper responsibly. Only use perforated liners and make sure they are weighed down by food.
- Don’t overfill the basket. Cook in batches if necessary to allow for proper airflow.
- Ensure ventilation. Place the air fryer in a well-ventilated space, away from other objects or surfaces.
- Never leave it unattended. Stay nearby while the air fryer is in operation.
- Clean after every use. Wipe down the basket, tray, and inner compartment to prevent grease fires.
- Unplug after use. Reduce electrical fire risk by unplugging the unit when it’s not in use.
Final Thoughts
As the popularity of air fryers continues to rise, so too does the importance of educating users about safe practices.
A moment of carelessness can quickly escalate into a household emergency, as highlighted by the viral image making the rounds online.
Photo Illustration: Consumer Reports, Shutterstock
While the post may have used shock value to grab attention, the underlying message is crucial: appliances, no matter how user-friendly, demand respect and responsibility.
So before you toss your next batch of fries into the basket, take a moment to make sure you’re not making the same mistake—because the best meals are the ones you get to enjoy, not extinguish.
By M10News Staff
Published: 18/05/2025
