Washing Air Fryer In Dishwasher: Safe Or Not?

Air fryers are a popular, healthier alternative to traditional frying methods. But, like all cooking appliances, they need to be cleaned regularly. Most air fryers have dishwasher-safe parts, such as the basket, pan, divider, and drawer. However, it's important to remember that the main unit of the air fryer should not be placed in the dishwasher due to its electrical components. Before cleaning, always refer to the manufacturer's instructions and avoid using abrasive materials or metal utensils to prevent damaging the non-stick coating.

Air fryer baskets are dishwasher-safe

When placing the basket in the dishwasher, it is best to put it in the top rack. Use a gentle dishwasher soap to prevent damage to the non-stick coating, and avoid abrasive cleaners or metallic sponges. Run a normal wash and dry cycle, and your air fryer basket will be clean and ready to use again!

While the air fryer basket is safe to put in the dishwasher, it can also be washed by hand. To do this, simply remove any grease or visible build-up from the basket using a wooden spatula or a soft item, then soak it in warm soapy water for about 15 minutes. Afterwards, use a soft sponge to clean the basket, rinse it, and let it dry completely before attaching it back to the air fryer.

Keeping your air fryer basket clean is important to ensure the longevity of your appliance. By following these simple steps, you can easily maintain your air fryer basket and keep it in good condition.

How to clean the air fryer's heating element

To clean the heating element of an air fryer, you must first unplug the appliance and ensure it is not hot. Let the air fryer cool down for at least 30 minutes. Place the appliance upside down on a soft cloth to avoid scratches and to access the heating element.

The heating element can be cleaned with a damp, non-abrasive cloth or sponge. It is important to ensure that the cloth or sponge is not dripping wet, as the appliance is electrical. If there is food residue stuck to the heating element, a soft-to-medium bristle brush can be used. Do not use a steel wire brush or hard-bristled brush, as this could damage the coating of the heating element.

After cleaning, return the appliance to its upright position and turn it on, running it for a few minutes without any food inside. This will catch any remaining loose residue in the pan.

The main unit should not be put in the dishwasher

The main unit of an air fryer should never be placed in the dishwasher as it contains electronic components. Putting the main unit in the dishwasher will ruin it. Instead, the main unit should be cleaned using a damp cloth and soap if necessary.

It is important to let the air fryer cool down before cleaning it. This can take around 30 minutes and will be quicker if you remove the basket and pan from the main unit. You can then use a damp cotton or microfiber cloth to wipe down the outside of the appliance.

The basket, pan, and other removable parts of the air fryer are dishwasher-safe. However, it is recommended to check the manual or contact the manufacturer to be 100% sure. These parts can be cleaned in the dishwasher just like any other dish. It is important to ensure that they are not too hot when placed in the dishwasher. The basket will usually need to go on the bottom rack due to its size.

The removable parts can also be cleaned by hand. This involves using warm soapy water and a soft sponge or cloth. It is important to avoid using metal utensils, steel wool, or abrasive sponges as these can damage the non-stick coating of the air fryer.

To remove tough stains or baked-on grease, it is recommended to soak the parts in warm soapy water or a vinegar and water solution. For very tough stains, a baking soda and water paste can be applied and left overnight. This can then be gently scrubbed with a soft sponge or cloth and rinsed with warm water.

It is important to let the air fryer parts dry completely before reassembling them. This is because the air fryer does not handle liquids well, and putting wet parts back into the air fryer could cause it to malfunction.

What soaps/detergents to use when cleaning an air fryer

When cleaning an air fryer, it is important to use non-abrasive soap and non-metal sponges and brushes to protect the non-stick coating of the appliance. For example, soft cloths, sponges, and soft-bristled toothbrushes are suitable for cleaning air fryers.

For the soap or detergent, a standard dish soap will be effective. Some recommended brands include Dawn dish soap, which has degreasing agents for deeper cleaning, and Scrub Daddy sponges.

If you are dealing with tough stains, you can try a liquid degreaser or a more powerful detergent. You can also try a paste made from baking soda and a small amount of water, which can be applied to tough spots and left to sit for 10 minutes before being scrubbed gently and rinsed.

Another option is to use a 50:50 mixture of distilled white vinegar and hot water, which will cut through greasy residue. This can be sprayed on or used to soak the components.

How often to clean an air fryer

Air fryers are a great way to cook food with minimal oil, but they do need to be cleaned and maintained regularly. How often you clean your air fryer will depend on several factors, including what you cook in it and how frequently you use it.

After Each Use

It is recommended to clean your air fryer after each use to avoid a buildup of grease and gunk. This will also help to prevent germs and bacteria from building up, which could cause foodborne illnesses. The basic components of your air fryer should be cleaned after each use, including the basket, tray, and pan. These parts can be washed by hand with warm soapy water or placed in the dishwasher, depending on the model. The interior should also be wiped down after each use.

Every Few Uses

The exterior of your air fryer does not need to be cleaned as frequently as the interior because it does not come into direct contact with food. You can wipe down the outside of your air fryer after every few uses with a damp cloth or paper towel.

Every Few Months

The heating coil of your air fryer should be checked every couple of months for oil residue. If it looks dirty, unplug the appliance and clean it with a damp cloth. Allow it to dry thoroughly before using the air fryer again.

Other Tips

• Always allow your air fryer to cool down for at least 30 minutes before cleaning.
• Avoid using abrasive sponges, steel wool, or metal scrubbers as these can damage the non-stick coating.
• Do not submerge the main unit of the air fryer in water, as it contains electrical components.
• If you are handwashing the removable parts, be sure to let them dry completely before placing them back in the air fryer.
• To remove stubborn grease or food residue, create a paste with baking soda and water and scrub with a soft-bristle brush.

Frequently asked questions