Glass bowls made from borosilicate or tempered glass are non‑reactive, BPA‑free, and can withstand temperatures up to 450°F, making them a safe choice. Silicone liners are also food‑grade and heat‑resistant, but they can retain odors over time. Consider glass if you prefer a transparent, easy‑to‑monitor cooking vessel, and silicone if you want a flexible, reusable liner that fits multiple basket sizes.

Glass bowls are dishwasher‑safe and have a non‑porous surface that resists staining, so they clean quickly with minimal effort. Silicone liners are also dishwasher‑safe, but they may trap food particles in crevices and sometimes require a hand‑wash to fully remove residue. Overall, glass generally offers a more straightforward cleaning experience.

Both glass bowls and silicone liners can be designed with raised lines or perforations to promote airflow. Glass bowls with a transparent design let you monitor cooking without opening the lid, preserving heat and ensuring consistent circulation. Silicone liners with raised patterns also improve airflow, but glass tends to distribute heat more evenly due to its thicker material.

Silicone liners are typically sold in multi‑pack sets and can be more affordable upfront, especially for larger air fryers. Glass bowls, especially those made from premium borosilicate, have a higher initial cost but are more durable and less likely to need replacement. Over time, the reusable nature of both can offset the price difference, so consider how often you’ll replace them.

Yes, high‑temperature resistant glass bowls are versatile enough for air frying, baking, steaming, and even oven use, making them a multi‑purpose accessory. Silicone liners can also be used in ovens and microwaves, but they may not provide the same rigidity needed for certain baked goods. Choose glass if you want a single container that handles a wide range of cooking methods.

Look for BPA‑free, food‑grade materials that are certified by FDA or similar agencies. Glass bowls should be shatter‑resistant with a thickness of at least 5 mm, while silicone liners should be heat‑rated to at least 450°F and free of harmful chemicals. Additional safety features like automatic shut‑off and overheat protection are built into the air fryer itself, not the bowl.

Capacity determines how much food you can cook in one batch; a 4‑qt glass bowl fits most family‑size meals, while smaller 3‑qt silicone liners are ideal for personal portions. Match the bowl size to your typical cooking volume to avoid overcrowding, which can affect crispness. Larger capacity bowls also reduce the need for multiple cooking cycles, saving time and energy.

Glass is inert and does not impart any taste, ensuring the true flavor of your ingredients shines through. Silicone is also non‑reactive, but some users report a faint silicone scent when cooking at the upper temperature limits. For the purest flavor profile, glass bowls are generally preferred.