Air Fryer Maintenance: Dishwasher-Friendly Parts

Air fryers have become a common kitchen appliance, with nearly 6 in 10 Americans owning one. They are a healthier alternative to deep fryers as they require only a small amount of fat to fry food. However, regular cleaning is essential to ensure the taste of the food remains unaffected. While some parts of the air fryer, such as the basket and interior pan, are dishwasher-safe, others, like the heating element and outer casing, must be cleaned by hand. It is always recommended to refer to the manufacturer's instructions for specific cleaning guidelines for your air fryer model.

Air fryer basket: dishwasher or hand wash?

Air fryer baskets can be washed in the dishwasher, but it is not recommended. Most manufacturers advise hand washing the baskets to extend their lifespan. The high heat and water pressure of a dishwasher can cause warping, discolouration, and flaking of the non-stick coating.

The best way to clean an air fryer basket is to use a soft sponge or cloth with warm soapy water. Be sure to get into every crevice, and dry the basket thoroughly before putting it away. This method is quick and easy, and it will protect the non-stick coating, keeping the basket in good condition for longer.

If you do decide to wash your air fryer basket in the dishwasher, always check the manufacturer's instructions first. Some models are not dishwasher safe, and you risk damaging the basket. Even if the basket is dishwasher safe, the harsh detergent and high heat can compromise the non-stick coating over time.

To summarise, while it is possible to wash some air fryer baskets in the dishwasher, it is generally recommended to hand wash this item. Hand washing is quicker, easier, and gentler on the basket, ensuring it stays in good condition for longer.

How to clean the heating element

To clean the heating element of your air fryer, first make sure the appliance is unplugged and cooled down. The heating element is fixed to the inside of the lid and cannot be seen from the outside. Place the appliance upside down on a soft cloth to avoid scratches and to access the heating element.

Use a soft sponge or cloth with warm water and washing-up liquid to gently clean the heating element. If there is caked-on food residue, a soft-to-medium bristle brush can be used. Avoid using a steel wire brush or a hard-bristle brush, as this could damage the coating of the heating element. Dry the heating element with a clean, soft cloth.

If the above method does not remove all the dirt and grease, try the following:

• Place a sheet of aluminium foil at the bottom of the air fryer and cover with a thin layer of water (2-3mm)
• Quarter a lemon and place the pieces on the foil
• Set the temperature to 180 degrees and the timer to 10 minutes
• The steam and lemon will dissolve the fat, causing it to detach from the heating element and drop onto the foil

Always make sure to clean your air fryer regularly to prevent unpleasant odours and odd flavours.

Air fryer drawers: dishwasher or hand wash?

Air fryer drawers can be washed in the dishwasher, but it is recommended to wash them by hand. Hand washing is better for the non-stick coating on the drawers and can also save space in your dishwasher.

Check the manufacturer's instructions

First, check your air fryer's manual to see if the drawers are dishwasher safe. Most are, but some, like the Instant Vortex Plus, cannot go in the dishwasher due to features like ClearCook. If you don't have the manual, you can usually find it online.

How to hand wash air fryer drawers

Handwashing air fryer drawers is easy and quick. Use warm or hot water, dish soap, and a sponge or soft brush to wipe the non-stick coating clean. You can also use a soft washing-up brush and a dash of washing-up liquid to keep the non-stick coating intact and make the drawers shine. Make sure to dry the drawers completely before putting them back in the fryer.

How to wash air fryer drawers in the dishwasher

If your air fryer drawers are dishwasher safe, put them on the top shelf, away from the heating element. Make sure the drawers have cooled down before putting them in the dishwasher.

Other air fryer parts

The heating element and the outer casing of the air fryer should always be cleaned by hand. Never put them in the dishwasher. For drawer-style air fryers, you can remove crumb-catching trays or basket inserts for separate cleaning.

Air fryer accessories: dishwasher or hand wash?

Air fryers are a fantastic appliance to have in your kitchen, allowing you to fry food in a healthier way. But, as with any appliance, keeping your air fryer clean is important. So, what's the best way to clean your air fryer accessories? Can they go in the dishwasher, or should you hand wash them?

The first step is to check your manufacturer's instructions. Most air fryer baskets are technically dishwasher-safe, but some manufacturers recommend hand washing to extend the lifespan of your air fryer. For example, Ninja recommends hand washing the baskets of its air fryers, even though they are dishwasher-safe. So, if you want to keep your air fryer in good condition for as long as possible, it's best to follow the manufacturer's recommendations.

Pros and cons of the dishwasher

If you do decide to put your air fryer accessories in the dishwasher, there are some things to keep in mind. While it may be convenient, the dishwasher can expose your accessories to high heat and high water pressure, which can lead to warping, discolouration, and flaking of the non-stick coating. The detergent used in dishwashers is also harsher than liquid dish soap, which can further compromise the non-stick coating.

Pros and cons of hand washing

Hand washing your air fryer accessories is a gentler way to clean them and can help prolong the lifespan of the non-stick coating. It's also a quick and easy process. Simply use a soft sponge or cloth with warm soapy water, and be sure to dry the accessories thoroughly before putting them away.

Other air fryer parts

While some air fryer parts are dishwasher-safe, others should never be put in the dishwasher. The heating element and the outer casing of the air fryer, for example, should always be cleaned by hand. Be sure to unplug your air fryer and allow it to cool down before cleaning the heating element with a soft cloth or sponge and some washing-up liquid. For the exterior of your air fryer, a regular wipe down with a dishcloth or microfibre cloth should be sufficient.

How to clean the outside of an air fryer

To clean the outside of your air fryer, start by unplugging the appliance and allowing it to cool down. Then, grab a soft cloth or sponge and some washing-up liquid. Wipe down the exterior of the air fryer, making sure to pay attention to the area around the dials, as these can accumulate more grease and grime.

If there are any removable parts on your air fryer, such as doors, be sure to take those off and clean them separately. You can also use a handheld brush and dustpan to sweep out any crumbs that may have accumulated inside the air fryer.

It is important to note that you should never submerge the main body of the air fryer in water and always avoid getting the heating element too wet. Instead, use a damp cloth to wipe down the heating element and make sure to dry it thoroughly afterward.

Regular cleaning of your air fryer will ensure that you can continue to enjoy tasty snacks and meals for a long time.

Frequently asked questions