Air Fryer Tray Maintenance: Dishwasher Safe?

Air fryers are a popular, healthy alternative to traditional frying methods. However, one of the drawbacks of using an air fryer is that, like any cooking appliance, it needs to be cleaned. While some people opt for hand washing their air fryer trays, others prefer to use a dishwasher. But which method is best?

How to clean an air fryer tray by hand

Step 1: Let the tray cool down

Before you start cleaning your air fryer tray, it's important to let it cool down. This is because you don't want to put a hot tray under cool water, just like you wouldn't put a hot glass dish straight from the oven under running water. Waiting for the tray to cool down will also make it easier to handle and reduce the risk of burns.

Step 2: Remove any large pieces of food

Once the tray has cooled, start by removing any large pieces of food or crumbs that may be stuck to the surface. You can use a soft-bristled brush or an old toothbrush to gently loosen and remove any stubborn bits. Be careful not to scratch or damage the non-stick coating on the tray.

Step 3: Soak the tray

If there is any baked-on grease or grime, fill the sink with warm, soapy water and let the tray soak for a few minutes. This will help to loosen any stubborn residue and make it easier to clean. You can also add a tablespoon of fresh lemon or orange juice to your warm, soapy water to help eliminate tough odours.

Step 4: Wash the tray with warm, soapy water

After soaking, use warm, soapy water and a soft cloth or sponge to gently wash the tray. Avoid using abrasive sponges or steel wool, as these can damage the non-stick coating. Gently scrub the surface, paying extra attention to any corners or crevices where food residue may have built up.

Step 5: Rinse and dry the tray

Once you've washed the tray, rinse it thoroughly under warm running water to remove any soap residue. Then, dry the tray with a clean cloth or paper towel. Make sure that the tray is completely dry before putting it back in the air fryer.

Additional tips:

• If you're dealing with tough, baked-on grease, you can cover the tray with a thin layer of dish soap and sprinkle baking soda on top. Use a very soft-bristled brush to spread the baking soda and activate it. Let it sit for a few minutes before wiping it clean. Repeat as needed until the tray is clean.
• Always unplug your air fryer before cleaning to avoid any accidents.
• It's recommended to clean your air fryer tray after each use to prevent the build-up of grease and food residue, which can affect the taste of your food.

Air fryer trays and dishwashers

Air fryers are a popular, healthy way to cook delicious food. However, as with all cooking appliances, they need to be cleaned regularly. The good news is that most air fryer trays can be cleaned in a dishwasher. However, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you don't damage your tray or basket.

Firstly, always check the manufacturer's instructions for your particular model. Some air fryer trays are not dishwasher safe, and you could risk ruining the non-stick coating. If in doubt, hand washing is the safest option. It is also quick and easy to do, and you can use a mild detergent, warm water, and a soft cloth or sponge. You can also leave the tray to soak in warm, soapy water to help shift any stubborn residue.

If your air fryer tray is dishwasher safe, it is still important to be mindful of a few things. Firstly, make sure you have removed any burnt-on food or residue before putting it in the dishwasher. Also, be sure to place the tray on the top shelf, so it is further away from the heating element. Always ensure your air fryer tray is cool before placing it in the dishwasher, and allow it to air dry thoroughly before returning it to the unit.

Some people prefer to hand wash their air fryer trays, even if they are dishwasher safe. This is because the powerful jets of water in a dishwasher can be too harsh, and over time, this can damage the non-stick coating. If you do choose to put your air fryer tray in the dishwasher, it is recommended to use a gentle cycle and avoid using harsh detergents.

In summary, while it is convenient to put your air fryer tray in the dishwasher, it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and take care not to damage the non-stick coating. Hand washing is a gentle and effective alternative, and it only takes a few minutes.

How to deep clean an air fryer

Step 1: Prepare the Air Fryer for Cleaning

Turn off and unplug your air fryer. Allow it to cool completely before removing any parts for cleaning.

Step 2: Clean Removable Parts

Remove the basket, tray, and pan. Wash these parts with soap and warm water, or place them in the dishwasher. Most air fryer parts are dishwasher-safe, but always check the instruction manual for your specific model. If there is burnt-on food, let the basket or tray soak in warm, soapy water.

Step 3: Clean the Air Fryer Interior

Wipe down the interior surfaces of the air fryer using a soft cloth. For heavy spatter, scrub gently with a soft-bristled brush or an old toothbrush. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaning agents as these can damage the non-stick coating.

Step 4: Clean the Heating Element

The heating element, usually located at the top inside the main body, should also be cleaned. Start by wiping it down with a damp cloth, then use a toothbrush to get into the nooks and crannies of the coiled metal. Avoid using too much water as this can damage the heating mechanism.

Step 5: Clean the Exterior

Wipe down the outside of the air fryer with a damp cloth or sponge. Use a mild detergent if necessary. Dry the exterior thoroughly with a towel before reassembling the air fryer.

Tips for Regular Cleaning

• Clean your air fryer after every use to prevent flavour transfer between recipes and a build-up of grease and food residue.
• Use air fryer liners or foil to catch crumbs and drippings, making clean-up easier. However, do not let foil touch the internal surfaces as this can restrict airflow and cause the appliance to overheat.
• To remove tough odours, add a tablespoon of fresh lemon or orange juice to your warm, soapy water.
• Never use metal utensils to scrape off food or grease as these can damage the non-stick coating.

Products to Help You Clean

• A soft-bristled brush or an old toothbrush
• Mild detergent or dish soap
• Non-abrasive sponge or cloth
• Swedish dishcloths

Air fryer tray cleaning products

Air fryer trays are usually made of plastic, ceramic, or metal such as stainless steel. These materials require only a few simple tools for cleaning. Here are some products to help you keep your air fryer tray clean:

• Soft-bristled brush or sponge: Use a soft-bristled bottle brush or sponge to clean your air fryer tray. Avoid using an abrasive brush or bristle sponge as this can damage the non-stick coating over time.
• Dish soap: A degreasing dish soap can be effective in removing grease and grime from the tray. Use a gentle, non-toxic dish soap with warm water and a soft sponge or cloth to clean the tray. Rinse and dry the tray after cleaning.
• Baking soda: Baking soda is a mild abrasive that can help remove stuck-on food and grease without scratching the surface. Create a paste by mixing baking soda with lemon juice or water, and apply it to the dirty areas of the tray. Leave it on for a few minutes before scrubbing with a soft brush or sponge.
• Vinegar: Vinegar is effective in breaking down grease and can be used in combination with other ingredients for a more powerful cleaning solution. For example, you can mix vinegar with lemon juice and steam your air fryer tray, or mix it with baking soda to create a bubbling solution that breaks down stuck-on food and grease.
• Citrus: Adding citrus, such as lemon or orange juice, to your cleaning solution can help neutralise strong odours.
• Air fryer cleaner: There are also specialised air fryer cleaning products available, such as heavy-duty foaming cleaning sprays that dissolve stubborn grease and food residue.

It's important to note that you should always consult your manufacturer's cleaning instructions before cleaning your air fryer tray. Some air fryers have dishwasher-safe parts, but hand washing is often recommended to protect the non-stick coating and ensure a longer lifespan for your appliance.

How often to clean an air fryer tray

Air fryer trays should be cleaned after every use to avoid charred food and gunk buildup. This can be done by handwashing the trays in warm soapy water or, if they are dishwasher-safe, adding them to the next dishwasher load.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning an Air Fryer Tray

• Unplug the air fryer and let it cool down: It is important to wait at least 30 minutes before cleaning to allow the air fryer to cool down.
• Remove the air fryer tray: Take out the removable parts of the air fryer, including the tray.
• Wash the removable parts: Wash the tray in warm soapy water by hand or in the dishwasher, if it is dishwasher-safe. For baked-on grease or charred food, let the tray soak in hot soapy water for 10-15 minutes before scrubbing with a non-abrasive sponge. Alternatively, create a paste with baking soda and water, scrub it onto the residue, and then rinse. For tough odours, add a tablespoon of fresh lemon or orange juice to the soapy water.
• Clean the inside of the air fryer: Wipe down the interior of the air fryer with a damp cloth or sponge, including the coil. For tougher messes, use warm soapy water.
• Clean the exterior of the air fryer: Wipe down the outside of the air fryer with a damp cloth or sponge, using a mild detergent if needed. Make sure to dry the exterior with a towel after cleaning.
• Reassemble the air fryer: Ensure that all parts of the air fryer are thoroughly dry before reassembling and plugging it back in.

Additional Tips

• Use air fryer liners: Air fryer liners are removable silicone liners that can be placed in the air fryer tray to catch crumbs and burnt bits, reducing the need for frequent cleaning.
• Avoid submerging the whole air fryer in water: Do not immerse the entire air fryer in water as this can be dangerous and may ruin the machine. Only submerge the removable parts, such as the tray.
• Do not use abrasive materials: Avoid using steel wool, metal scrubbers, or abrasive sponges as these can damage the non-stick coating of the air fryer tray.
• Clean the heating element: The heating element should be cleaned occasionally by laying the air fryer on its back and using a damp cloth or toothbrush to gently scrub away any grease or food particles.

Frequently asked questions