the non-stick coating on my basket is peeling off in little flakes, is it still safe to use?

Diagnosis

The peeling you are seeing on your Black+Decker Purify HF110SBD basket is the degradation of the PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) or ceramic-based non-stick layer. This occurs when the chemical bond between the coating and the underlying aluminum or steel substrate is broken. This is typically caused by "thermal shock"—placing a searing hot basket directly into cold soapy water—or mechanical abrasion from using metal tongs, forks, or abrasive scouring pads (like steel wool) during cleanup. Once the coating begins to flake, the basket is no longer structurally sound for food preparation. The flakes themselves are generally inert if ingested in tiny amounts, but the primary danger is that the exposed metal substrate can now leach metallic oxides into your food. Furthermore, as the coating peels, food particles and oils become trapped in the microscopic crevices of the peeling edges, creating pockets for bacterial growth and carbonized grease buildup that cannot be cleaned away, potentially leading to smoke or acrid tastes during high-heat cycles.

How to Fix It

Because non-stick coatings cannot be "patched" or reapplied at home without industrial curing ovens, the only safe solution is a full component replacement. Follow these steps to restore your unit:

1. Immediately cease using the current basket. Do not attempt to "sand down" the peeling areas, as this will expose more of the raw metal.
2. Locate the model number sticker on the rear or bottom of your unit to confirm it is the HF110SBD (the 2-Liter Purify model).
3. Purchase a genuine Black+Decker replacement basket assembly. Ensure you are buying the basket and the crisper tray as a set, as the tolerances between the tray and the basket wall are precise to ensure proper airflow for the "Purify" convection system.
4. Before inserting the new basket, use a damp microfiber cloth to wipe out the interior heating chamber of the air fryer to remove any stray flakes from the previous basket.
5. Perform a "burn-in" cycle with the new basket: run the unit at 400°F for 10 minutes without food to ensure any factory residues are evaporated.

If That Didn't Work

If a genuine replacement basket is backordered or unavailable, consider these alternatives:

• Upgrade to a larger model: If the HF110SBD parts are discontinued, the cost of a replacement basket often nears 50% of the cost of a new unit. It may be more economical to upgrade to a newer Black+Decker model with an improved coating.
• Use Perforated Parchment Liners: Once you have your new basket, use air fryer-specific parchment paper liners. Ensure the liner has holes for airflow and is weighted down by food; otherwise, it can fly into the heating element and cause a fire. This creates a physical barrier that prevents food from scrubbing against the coating.
• Switch to Silicone Inserts: Purchase a food-grade, BPA-free silicone basket liner that fits the 2-liter dimensions. This allows you to cook food in the silicone tray, which sits inside the metal basket, meaning the non-stick coating never actually touches the food or the cleaning sponge.

Heads Up

To prevent your new basket from peeling, adhere to these strict maintenance rules:

• The "Cool Down" Rule: Never move the basket from the 400°F setting directly into water. Let it air cool for at least 15 minutes to avoid thermal shock.
• Tool Restriction: Use only silicone or nylon-tipped tongs. Never use stainless steel forks or knives to scrape food off the basket floor.
• Cleaning Protocol: Use a soft sponge or a microfiber cloth with mild dish soap. Never put the HF110SBD basket in the dishwasher, as the high-heat drying cycle and harsh detergents chemically strip the non-stick bond.
• Oil Caution: Avoid using aerosol spray cans (like Pam) that contain lecithin or propellants, as these can leave a gummy residue that permanently damages the non-stick surface. Use a pump-spray bottle with pure olive or avocado oil.