Pressure Cookers, Air Fryers & Small Appliances

Countertop appliances make cooking faster, but they can cause scalds from steam, burns from hot surfaces and fires from grease and bad cords. Most accidents come from using them wrongly or ignoring recalls.

• Families
• Cooks
• Renters

Pressure cookers

• Read the manual. Know how the lid locks and how pressure is released.
• Use only the minimum liquid recommended and never fill past the max line (about two-thirds full; half for foods that foam or expand like beans, rice or pasta).
• Check that the gasket (sealing ring) and steam release valve are clean and in place before each use.
• Do not force the lid open. Wait until the pressure indicator drops and the lid unlocks.
• When using the quick release, keep hands, face and cords away from the steam vent and use a long utensil or the release switch. Steam is scalding.
• Place on a stable, heat-resistant surface with clearance above, away from cabinets, which can be damaged by steam.
• Do not use the appliance if the lid, valves or sealing ring are damaged.

Air fryers and toaster ovens

• Leave at least 5 inches of space around and above the appliance; do not put it under cabinets or against a wall
• Do not overload the basket, and keep paper, foil and parchment from covering heating elements or being blown into them
• Clean grease and crumbs after each use to prevent smoke and fires
• Use oven mitts when removing baskets and open lids away from the face; hot air and steam burn
• Unplug when not in use
• Never leave cooking unattended for long periods

Cords and electrical

• Plug directly into a wall outlet if possible; avoid extension cords and power strips for high-wattage appliances. See Extension Cords.
• Keep cords away from the edge of the counter and hot surfaces; use short cords if toddlers are present.
• Keep appliances away from the sink and water. Use GFCI outlets near sinks. See GFCI.
• Do not use damaged cords or plugs.

Recalls and fires

• Register your appliances and check recalls at CPSC.gov; some pressure cookers and air fryers have been recalled for burns and fire.
• If an appliance catches fire, unplug it if safe, keep the lid closed and do not use water on grease. See Kitchen Grease Fires. Have smoke alarms and an extinguisher. See Smoke & CO Alarms.
• Keep children away from hot appliances. See Kitchen Safety.

Last updated: October 8, 2026