8 mistakes every beginner makes

Soggy chips, dry chicken, smoke alarm going off on a Tuesday night – I’ve been there. The good news: every mistake on this list is easy to fix. Here are the 8 most common ones and what to do instead.

Mistake #1: overcrowding the air fryer basket

The big one. If the basket is too full, the hot air can’t get through – and your food steams instead of crisping. Stick to one layer with a little space between pieces. Cooking in batches is worth it.

Mistake #2: not patting food dry before air frying

Moisture is the enemy of crispiness. Wet food steams first and comes out pale and soft. A quick pat with kitchen roll takes ten seconds and makes a real difference.

Mistake #3: using too much or too little oil in the air fryer

No oil and some food turns out tough. Too much and it smokes and goes greasy. A light spray is perfect. Frozen chips and nuggets usually don’t need any.

Mistake #4: copying oven times in the air fryer

The air fryer cooks faster than an oven. Rule of thumb: 10–20°C lower and 20–30% shorter. Check a few minutes before the timer goes off.

Mistake #5: not shaking or turning food in the air fryer

The heat comes from above, so the top cooks faster than the bottom. Give chips, veg, chicken or halloumi a shake or flip halfway. Thirty seconds for much better results.

Mistake #6: not cleaning your air fryer regularly

Grease builds up fast and starts to smoke at high temperatures – leaving a burnt taste on your food.

• After every use: wash the basket and drawer in warm, soapy water (or the dishwasher, if they’re dishwasher-safe).
• Once a week: wipe the inside with a damp cloth.

Mistake #7: not preheating your air fryer when it matters

Not every dish needs it – but chips, wings and breaded food come out crispier in a hot air fryer. It only takes 3–5 minutes. I run mine empty while I prep the food.

Mistake #8: giving up on your air fryer too soon

My first chicken was dry and my chips were pale – I nearly gave up. But there’s just a small learning curve. Once you’ve got the basics (space, dry food, a little oil, check early), everything clicks. Stick with it!