You can make almost anything in an air fryer. I’ve even been experimenting with air fryer baking - it’s quicker than normal if you get temperatures just right. Still, they’re not cheap. Luckily, there are some ways you can get an air fryer for free so you can push your cooking boundaries.
Use a Household Support Fund or Other Aid Network
In the modern day energy crisis, an air fryer is incredibly useful for lower-income groups, as it uses less energy than a standard oven due to the smaller amount of space it has to heat. It’s well worth checking your local authority - there’s a chance you might be eligible for access to a free air fryer like thousands of pensioners in Lincolnshire were at the start of 2025.
Write to your local authority and express the need for energy-efficient cooking devices, and you may be able to claim a free air fryer along with payment towards your energy bills.
Access to household support funds does depend on things like benefits claimed, income level, household circumstances, and other eligibility criteria, but it’s well worth a look.
Outside of schemes like this, charities like The Trussell Trust or Turn2Us may be able to help you get access to a free air fryer or other essential household appliances. Be clear about the reasoning when applying for support, and be sure to mention the fact that you’re applying for an energy-efficient essential appliance.
Mutual aid groups in your local area might also be able to help you - start by looking up “mutual aid” and your region, or go to sites like Mutual Aid Hub (US) or Mutual-Aid.co.uk (UK). You’ll also be able to find more information in your public library.
Bundle Deals
Some retailers will offer a free air fryer as part of a bundle with other products, making your air fryer sort-of a free bonus!
For example, Haier offered a free air fryer with the purchase of selected appliances like washing machines and dishwashers, so if you’re planning a big-ticket purchase, a free air fryer might just be on the menu.
Check for offers in your area - specialist homeware stores are often the most likely to put together special offers to entice shoppers for their big buys.
Giveaways
Search up “air fryer giveaway” on TikTok, Instagram, or other social media platforms, and there’ll be plenty of chances for you to exchange exposure for a freebie. I’d suggest a level of caution when looking at giveaways, though. Scammers will often offer fake prizes to entice people to share and follow their pages, so check to see that other giveaways have been honoured with real winners.
Easier to trust options include Gleam.io and Competition Database, which compile legit giveaways to ensure you’re in with the best possible chance to win something real.
Of course, it should go without saying that giveaways are a very unreliable way to get anything, even when they’re legit. You’re unlikely to win regardless, so don’t try this method if you’re looking for an immediate solution.
Product Reviews
Influencers get free stuff all the time. Why can’t you?
If you’re a consumer and know a thing or two about how products should work, signing up to a product review program could be perfect for you. Sites like Home Tester Club and Bzzagent can sometimes give you free sample products to test and keep.
You can also reach out directly to the brands you’re interested in. Ninja, one of the main air fryer manufacturers, has its own system where you can review products for the company’s website, and in return, you get to keep the air fryer. Check your favourite air fryer brand to see if it’s an option for you.
