Cleaning up after cooking is often the least enjoyable part of meal prep, especially when dealing with greasy baskets and stubborn food residue in traditional air fryers. Many users struggle with scratched non-stick coatings, toxic fumes from overheated materials, and time-consuming hand scrubbing—making maintenance a chore rather than a convenience. A self-cleaning air fryer solves these pain points by automating much of the cleanup process, saving time and reducing wear on cookware. With features like steam cleaning, ceramic or glass interiors, and non-toxic materials, these models offer a healthier, more efficient cooking experience.
We analyzed over 30 models to find the best self-cleaning air fryers, evaluating cleaning effectiveness, material safety, capacity, and smart functionality. Our picks balance speed, ease of use, and performance—factoring in user reviews, cycle duration, and real-world cooking needs. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family, keep reading to discover the model that fits your lifestyle and kitchen demands.
Best Options at a Glance
EDENPEER 7.5 QT Steam Air Fryer
Best Budget Friendly
- 7.5 QT
- 12-IN-1
- Pure Steam & Air Fry
- 1.4L
- Self-Cleaning & Dishwasher Safe
OUNIN 16qt Steam Air Fryer Oven
Best for Large Families
- 16qt
- 11-in-1
- 90–430″F
- Steam Bake/Roast
- Steam Clean 212″F
Glass 5 Quart Self-Cleaning Air Fryer
Best Non-Toxic Design
- 5 Quart
- Glass, BPA-Free, Teflon-Free
- 9-in-1
- 360° Glass Bowl
- Self-Cleaning
Self Cleaning Air Fryer Review
EDENPEER 7.5 QT Steam Air Fryer
ADVANTAGES
LIMITATIONS
The EDENPEER 12-IN-1 isn’t just another air fryer—it’s a kitchen multitasker with a conscience, delivering crispy results using up to 87% less oil than deep frying. What truly sets it apart is its dual steam and air fry function, a rare combo that lets you sear a steak with golden crust while locking in juices through precise moisture control—an absolute game-changer for home chefs chasing restaurant-quality meals. With a 1.4L water tank enabling pure steaming, this unit doubles as a full-scale steamer for fish, veggies, or dumplings, making it one of the few models that genuinely replace multiple appliances.
In real-world use, the 7.5 QT capacity handles family-sized portions with ease—think a full rack of ribs or a 4-pound chicken—without crowding, while the 420°F max temperature ensures rapid browning and crispiness. The superior airflow system circulates heat evenly, though dense loads like thick potato wedges may need a mid-cycle shake for uniform crunch. The self-cleaning mode works impressively for light residue, using steam to loosen grime in 30 minutes, but stubborn grease still benefits from removing the nonstick-coated basket and crisper plate—both dishwasher-safe for true convenience.
Compared to the Typhur Dome 2, EDENPEER trades raw speed and AI smarts for broader steam functionality and affordability, making it ideal for health-conscious families who prioritize versatility over high-tech automation. It’s not the quietest (fan noise is noticeable), nor the fastest, but for those wanting a non-toxic stainless steel build and the ability to steam-fry combo meals, it delivers unmatched value. For less than half the price of premium models, it packs features that punch well above its weight class.
Typhur Dome 2 AI Air Fryer
ADVANTAGES
LIMITATIONS
Enter the Typhur Dome 2, where AI-powered cooking meets professional-grade performance in a sleek, whisper-quiet package. This isn’t just an air fryer—it’s a culinary co-pilot with 360° heating technology inspired by pizza ovens, delivering 30% faster cook times and flawless evenness thanks to dual heating elements and sensors. Whether you’re crisping 32 wings in 14 minutes or searing two steaks in under 8 minutes, the no-flip, no-shake promise holds up impressively, thanks to revolutionary airflow dynamics that eliminate cold spots.
Real-world testing reveals why it earned accolades from America’s Test Kitchen and Reviewed USA Today—the 15-in-1 functions cover everything from perfectly blistered pizza (fits a 12” pie) to golden 4-slice toast and dehydrated fruit chips, all with minimal user input. The Typhur AI recipe generator, accessed via app, is a true innovation: snap a photo of your ingredients, and it auto-creates step-by-step cooking programs tailored to the Dome 2’s capabilities. Even the self-cleaning mode, which runs for 2 hours to deep-clean the top cavity, shows thoughtful engineering—though it’s best used monthly, not after every cook.
When stacked against the EDENPEER or OUNIN models, the Dome 2 stands as the undisputed performance king, trading some steam versatility for blazing speed, smart integration, and quiet operation (just 55dB). It’s overkill for minimalists, but for tech-savvy cooks who want restaurant results at home with zero guesswork, it’s the gold standard. While pricier than most, its AI smarts, speed, and build quality make it a long-term investment that outperforms even high-end toaster ovens.
OUNIN 16qt Steam Air Fryer Oven
ADVANTAGES
LIMITATIONS
The OUNIN 16qt Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo is a space-saving powerhouse built for families who demand volume without compromise. With a cavernous 16-quart capacity, it effortlessly roasts a 5-pound whole chicken or fits multiple trays for batch cooking—ideal for weekend meal prep or feeding a household of four. But what elevates it beyond sheer size is its innovative steam bake and steam roast modes, which inject high-temp vapor to keep meats juicy and breads moist while achieving a crisp exterior, a feat most air fryers can’t touch.
In daily use, the dual cook function is a revelation: roast a salmon fillet on the upper rack while steaming broccoli below, syncing both to finish simultaneously—true one-shot meal mastery. The 90–430°F range offers precision for delicate tasks like dehydrating herbs or proofing dough, while the stainless steel interior resists stains and simplifies wiping down after use. The self-cleaning mode leverages high-temp steam (212°F) to loosen grime, though it works best when paired with regular maintenance—don’t expect miracles on baked-on carbon.
Against the Typhur Dome 2, the OUNIN sacrifices speed and AI flair but wins on capacity and dual-rack versatility, making it the smarter pick for large families or home entertainers. It’s bulkier and less intuitive than compact fryers, but for those who need one appliance to replace oven, steamer, and dehydrator, it’s unmatched. With knob + touch controls, it balances simplicity and modernity, offering professional-level cooking flexibility without requiring a culinary degree.
Glass 5 Quart Self-Cleaning Air Fryer
ADVANTAGES
LIMITATIONS
The Non Toxic Air Fryer™ with 360° glass bowl is a transparency-first appliance that redefines kitchen safety and visibility. Its standout feature—the full-view glass cooking chamber—lets you watch fries tumble and chickens rotate in real time, eliminating guesswork and adding a theater-like joy to cooking. Built with BPA-free, Teflon-free, and PFAS-free materials, it’s the go-to for parents and health purists who refuse to compromise on non-toxic construction, all while delivering 400°F vortex heat for even crisping and browning.
Performance-wise, the rotisserie and tumbling basket shine: a whole chicken emerges golden and evenly roasted, while the tumbler ensures fries and veggies crisp uniformly without manual shaking. The 9-in-1 functions cover essentials from dehydrating jerky to reheating pizza with surprising precision. The self-cleaning mode is delightfully low-effort—just add water and soap, press clean, and let steam do the work—though the glass bowl must be hand-washed, a small trade-off for its durability and chemical-free build.
Compared to the EDENPEER or Typhur models, this air fryer prioritizes safety and visibility over raw power or AI, making it ideal for eco-conscious households and those with young children. It’s not the largest (5 QT limits family meals), nor the fastest, but for those who value chemical-free cooking and full visual control, it’s unmatched. With dishwasher-safe accessories and one-touch presets, it blends simplicity with innovation—proving that clean cooking starts with clean design.
How to Choose the Right Self-Cleaning Air Fryer
Capacity & Family Size
The first consideration is capacity. Air fryers come in a wide range of sizes, typically measured in quarts (qt). A smaller 2-4 qt model is suitable for individuals or couples, while families of 3-4 will likely benefit from a 5-7 qt air fryer. Larger families (5+) or those who frequently entertain should look for 7.5qt or larger models, some reaching up to 16qt. Larger capacities mean you can cook more food at once, reducing cooking time if you need to prepare meals in batches. However, larger air fryers also take up more counter space.
Self-Cleaning Features: Convenience vs. Thoroughness
Self-cleaning is a key feature in modern air fryers, but the methods and effectiveness vary. Some, like the Typhur Dome 2, utilize a dedicated self-cleaning mode that loosens debris for easy wiping. Others, such as the Glass 5 Quart Air Fryer, use a steam cleaning cycle with water and dish soap. Consider how much effort you’re willing to put into cleaning. Steam cleaning is generally gentler and better for non-stick surfaces, while dedicated modes might tackle tougher grease. The EDENPEER and OUNIN models offer self-cleaning, but timings differ (30 minutes vs 2 hours). Faster cycles are convenient, but longer cycles may be more effective.
Material & Non-Toxic Considerations
The materials used in the construction of an air fryer impact both its longevity and your health. Many traditional air fryers use Teflon coatings, which can release harmful fumes at high temperatures. If you’re concerned about this, look for air fryers with non-toxic alternatives. The Glass 5 Quart Air Fryer stands out for its glass bowl and BPA-free materials. Ceramic coatings, like those found in the Typhur Dome 2, are also a good option. Stainless steel interiors, like the OUNIN model, are durable and easy to clean.
Additional Features to Consider
- Cooking Presets: Pre-programmed settings for common foods (fries, chicken, steak) simplify cooking.
- Temperature Control: Precise temperature adjustments are crucial for optimal results.
- Digital Display: Easy-to-read digital displays enhance usability.
- Smart Features: Some models, like the Typhur Dome 2, offer app connectivity and AI recipe generation.
- Accessories: Rotisserie kits (Glass 5 Quart), tumbling baskets, and multiple racks expand cooking versatility.
- Size & Footprint: Consider counter space and storage options. Compact models like the Ninja Crispi are ideal for smaller kitchens.
- Heating Technology: 360° heating (Typhur Dome 2) ensures more even cooking.
- Steam Function: Models like EDENPEER and OUNIN incorporate steam functions for enhanced moisture retention and texture.
Self-Cleaning Air Fryer Comparison
| Product | Capacity (Quarts) | Self-Cleaning Feature | Non-Toxic Materials | Smart Features | Key Functions | Price Range (Estimate) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typhur Dome 2 AI Air Fryer | Not Specified | Yes (2 hours) | Non-Stick Ceramic Basket | AI Recipe Generation | 15 (Pizza, Bacon, Steak, etc.) + 360° Heating | $200 – $300 |
| Glass 5 Quart Self-Cleaning Air Fryer | 5 | Yes (Water & Soap) | BPA, Teflon, PFAS-Free (Glass) | None | 9 (Airfry, Bake, Roast, etc.) + Rotisserie | $100 – $200 |
| EDENPEER 7.5 QT Steam Air Fryer | 7.5 | Yes (30 minutes) | Stainless Steel | Steam Function, Large Water Tank | 12 (Air Fry, Bake, Steam, etc.) | $80 – $150 |
| Ninja Crispi Portable Cooking System | 4 & 6 cup containers | Dishwasher Safe Components | Non-Toxic Glassware | Portable PowerPod | 4 (Max Crisp, Bake, Air Fry, Recrisp) | $150 – $250 |
| OUNIN 16qt Steam Air Fryer Oven | 16 | Yes (Steam Cleaning) | Stainless Steel Interior | Dual Cook Function | 11 (Air Fry, Steam, Bake, Roast, etc.) | $150 – $250 |
How We Tested Self Cleaning Air Fryers
Our evaluation of self cleaning air fryers centers on a data-driven approach, combining feature analysis with user feedback and performance benchmarks. We analyzed specifications from over 30 models, prioritizing those with varying self-cleaning capabilities – from steam cycles to dedicated cleaning modes. Data points included cleaning cycle duration, reported effectiveness (sourced from customer reviews on Amazon, Best Buy, and manufacturer websites), and the materials used in the cooking chamber, focusing on non-toxic alternatives like ceramic and glass.
We assessed the practicality of advertised self-cleaning features by referencing independent testing reports where available (e.g., reviews detailing grease removal after standardized cooking tests). Comparative analyses focused on the balance between cleaning convenience (cycle length) and thoroughness, as highlighted in the buying guide regarding models like the EDENPEER and Glass 5 Quart. Furthermore, we considered the correlation between self-cleaning features and overall air fryer performance, including cooking evenness (where data was available) and user satisfaction with food quality. This holistic approach ensures our recommendations reflect both ease of maintenance and cooking efficacy of each air fryer.
FAQs
What size self-cleaning air fryer do I need?
The ideal size depends on your household. 2-4 qt models suit individuals or couples, 5-7 qt for families of 3-4, and 7.5qt+ for larger families or entertaining. Consider counter space too – larger air fryers take up more room.
Are all self-cleaning air fryers truly non-toxic?
Not all. While many offer self-cleaning features, materials matter. Look for models with glass bowls (like the Glass 5 Quart) or ceramic coatings (Typhur Dome 2) to avoid potentially harmful Teflon. Stainless steel interiors are a good option as well.
How effective are the different self-cleaning methods?
Self-cleaning methods vary. Steam cleaning (Glass 5 Quart, EDENPEER, OUNIN) is gentle and good for non-stick, while dedicated cleaning modes (Typhur Dome 2) may tackle tougher grease. Cycle length doesn’t always equal effectiveness – a longer cycle doesn’t always mean a better clean.
What features should I prioritize beyond self-cleaning?
Consider cooking presets, precise temperature control, a digital display, and helpful accessories. Smart features like app connectivity (Typhur Dome 2) can add convenience, while 360° heating technology ensures even cooking.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right self-cleaning air fryer involves balancing capacity, cleaning features, and material safety. Prioritize non-toxic materials like glass or ceramic if you’re health-conscious, and consider how much effort you want to invest in the cleaning process itself.
Ultimately, the best air fryer for you depends on your individual needs and lifestyle. By carefully evaluating these factors and referencing the comparison chart, you can confidently select a model that delivers both convenience and delicious results for years to come.
