Air Fryer Basket Cleaning: Dishwasher Safe?

Whether you can put an air fryer basket in the dishwasher depends on the model. Some baskets are dishwasher-safe, but others are not. Even if your air fryer basket is dishwasher-safe, it's recommended to clean it by hand to avoid damaging the non-stick coating and to save space in your dishwasher. To clean an air fryer basket by hand, let it cool, then use warm, soapy water and a soft sponge or cloth to clean it.

Can you put an air fryer basket in the dishwasher?

Air fryer baskets are dishwasher-safe, but handwashing is recommended

While some air fryer baskets are dishwasher-safe, handwashing is the recommended cleaning method for several reasons. Firstly, the high water temperatures and pressure in dishwashers, coupled with tough cleaning agents, can be too aggressive and damage the non-stick coating on air fryer baskets. This not only affects the performance of the basket but also poses potential health risks if the coating chips away and ends up in your food.

Handwashing air fryer baskets is a gentler and safer alternative. To clean, simply fill your sink basin with warm, soapy water and let the basket soak for 10 to 15 minutes. Then, use a soft cloth or sponge to wipe away any remaining residue. If there are tough, stuck-on bits, a soft-bristled brush or toothbrush can help loosen them without causing damage.

Another reason to opt for handwashing is that air fryer baskets can take up a lot of valuable space in the dishwasher. Since they are so easy to clean by hand, it's more efficient to just wash them in the sink, especially if you use your air fryer frequently.

Additionally, it's important to always let your air fryer basket cool down before cleaning it, regardless of whether you choose to handwash or put it in the dishwasher. This is to ensure your safety and to prevent potential damage to the appliance.

While the baskets are typically dishwasher-safe, it's always a good idea to check your specific manufacturer's instructions, as some models may have different care requirements.

Handwashing is a gentler way to clean your air fryer basket

While some air fryer baskets are dishwasher-safe, handwashing is a gentler way to clean your air fryer basket. It's always a good idea to consult your manufacturer's cleaning instructions, but if you prefer traditional hand-washing methods or need to address tougher messes, there are a few universal ways to ensure your air fryer basket stays pristine.

Why handwashing is a gentler option

Dishwashers use high heat and aggressive detergents, which can shorten the lifespan of your air fryer basket. The high water temperatures, high pressure, and tough cleaning agents in dishwashers can be too harsh for air fryer baskets, which are usually made of plastic, ceramic, or metal like stainless steel.

How to handwash your air fryer basket

First, let your air fryer basket cool down completely. Then, fill your sink with warm water and add some mild detergent to create suds. Let the basket soak for at least 10 minutes, or up to 30 minutes for tougher messes. Gently scrub stains with a non-abrasive sponge or soft-bristled brush. Rinse the basket with warm water and let it air dry or towel dry with a clean cloth before reassembling your air fryer.

Tips for maintaining your air fryer basket

• Always let your air fryer basket cool down completely before cleaning.
• Remove loose food particles by shaking the basket or knocking out crumbs.
• Stick to gentle cleaners like mild dish soap, a non-abrasive sponge, or a soft cloth. Avoid metal scouring pads, sharp objects, and abrasive brushes or bristles that can scratch or damage the basket's coating.
• Choose natural ingredients like vinegar or baking soda for a deeper clean.
• Ensure your air fryer basket is fully dry before reassembling your air fryer.

How to handwash an air fryer basket

While some sources say that air fryer baskets are dishwasher-safe, others advise against it, as the high water temperatures and pressure can damage the non-stick coating. To keep your air fryer basket in good condition, it is recommended to hand wash it after each use. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do this:

• Unplug and cool the air fryer: Before you start cleaning, make sure the air fryer is unplugged and allow it to cool down completely. This is important for safety reasons and will also make it more comfortable to handle.
• Remove the basket and tray: Carefully take out the basket and tray from the air fryer and set them aside.
• Wash the removable parts: Fill your sink with warm, soapy water and wash the basket and tray in it. You can also use a mild dish soap and a soft cloth or sponge to clean these parts. Avoid using harsh, abrasive cleaners, sharp objects, or scouring pads, as they can damage the non-stick coating. For tough, stuck-on food, you can soak the basket and tray in warm, soapy water for about 10-15 minutes before gently scrubbing with a non-abrasive sponge.
• Wipe down the air fryer: Use a damp cloth to wipe down the interior and exterior of the air fryer to remove any grease or residue.
• Dry everything thoroughly: Make sure all the components are completely dry before reassembling the air fryer. Moisture can affect the performance of your air fryer and may even cause it to malfunction.
• Reassemble the air fryer: Once everything is clean and dry, put the basket and tray back into the air fryer, following the manufacturer's instructions for proper alignment and placement.
• Store properly: When not in use, store your air fryer in a clean, dry place to prevent dust or buildup of grime.

By following these steps, you can keep your air fryer basket clean and well-maintained, ensuring its performance and the safety of your food.

Potential damage to the non-stick coating of the air fryer basket

The non-stick coating on an air fryer basket is delicate and requires careful handling and maintenance. While some manufacturers claim that their air fryer baskets are dishwasher-safe, others advise against putting them in the dishwasher. The high water temperatures, aggressive detergents, and vigorous washing cycles of dishwashers can damage the non-stick coating over time, causing it to chip, peel, or flake off.

The non-stick coating on an air fryer basket, such as Teflon, is designed to provide a slippery surface that prevents food from sticking. However, the harsh conditions in a dishwasher can break down this coating, rendering it ineffective and potentially unsafe. The dishwasher's high water temperatures can cause the coating to soften and dissolve, while the aggressive detergents can chemically react with the coating, causing it to degrade. Additionally, the vigorous washing cycle, which involves spraying water at high pressure, can physically wear down the coating, especially if the basket comes into contact with other items in the dishwasher.

To prevent damage to the non-stick coating, it is recommended to hand wash the air fryer basket with warm, soapy water and a soft sponge or cloth. This gentle approach ensures that the coating is not scratched or stripped away. For stubborn grease or burnt-on food, a paste made from baking soda and water can be applied to the basket, followed by a gentle scrub with a soft-bristled brush. It is crucial to avoid using harsh chemicals, metal scouring pads, or abrasive cleaning tools, as these can accelerate the deterioration of the non-stick coating.

By taking the time to hand wash the air fryer basket and avoiding the dishwasher, you can extend the lifespan of the basket and maintain its non-stick properties. While it may require a bit more effort, it is a worthwhile investment to keep your air fryer in optimal condition and ensure safe and effective cooking performance.

Air fryer base is not dishwasher or sink safe

The air fryer base contains an electrical unit, which can be very dangerous if exposed to water. Therefore, it is not dishwasher or sink safe. To clean the outside of the air fryer base, use a clean, warm, soapy cloth to wipe it down. Make sure the appliance is unplugged before doing so.

The heating element, which comes into contact with food when the heat is circulating, may also need to be cleaned from time to time. To clean this, ensure the appliance is cool and unplugged, then turn it upside down and wipe it down with a damp, warm, soapy cloth. Pat dry and let it air dry completely before reusing.

It is also important to clean the coils and the area surrounding them inside the hull of the fryer and above the basket. During cooking, oil, sauce, and food can splatter onto the coils. To clean this area, avoid using soap, as residual soap could taint the food the next time you cook. Instead, use a damp scrubby or the rough side of a sponge.

Frequently asked questions