If your air fryer has a removable crisper plate, take it out before cleaning, as you'll be washing it separately. Now is also a good time to use a rubber spatula to scrape off any remaining food.
If your air fryer basket is in seriously messy shape, it can help to soak it before scrubbing it out. However, if you have greasy food, such as melted cheese, stuck to the basket, make sure you remove that before soaking. Otherwise, the fat from the cheese will counteract the suds in your dish soap, and the soak won't be as effective.
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Kaley Rohlinger