Air Fryer Tray Cleaning: Dishwasher Safe?

Air fryers are a handy kitchen appliance, but they can get quite dirty. Fat and food residue can build up in the basket, so it's important to clean your air fryer after each use. The best way to clean an air fryer depends on the model. Some air fryer baskets are dishwasher-safe, but handwashing is often recommended to extend the lifespan of the appliance and avoid damaging the non-stick coating.

Is it safe to put an air fryer tray in the dishwasher?

Whether it's safe to put an air fryer tray in the dishwasher depends on the model of your air fryer. Always check your user manual first. Some air fryer trays are dishwasher-safe, but hand washing is often recommended to extend the lifespan of your air fryer.

Pros and cons of using a dishwasher

The dishwasher can be a handy option when you're short on time or dealing with a tricky cleanup. However, it can eventually strip the non-stick coating on the tray. Additionally, dishwasher-safe air fryer trays may take up a lot of valuable space in your dishwasher.

Pros and cons of hand washing

Hand washing is a gentler way to clean your air fryer tray and can help extend its lifespan. It's also quick and easy to do, taking just a few minutes of your time. However, it may not be as effective in removing tough debris and odours as a dishwasher.

Tips for cleaning your air fryer tray

• Always let the tray cool down before cleaning it.
• Use warm, soapy water and a soft, clean sponge or cloth to clean the tray.
• Rinse the tray with warm water and let it air dry or towel dry with a clean cloth.
• For tough debris, use a soft-bristled brush or a new, soft-bristled toothbrush with warm, soapy water.
• Soak the tray in warm, soapy water for 10 to 15 minutes to loosen stubborn residue.
• Use citrus juice in your cleaning solution to eliminate tough odours.
• Avoid using an abrasive brush or bristle sponge, as these can damage the non-stick coating.

Pros and cons of putting an air fryer tray in the dishwasher

Pros:

• It saves time and effort.
• It can be a good option when faced with a tricky clean-up.
• It can be done if you are in a pinch and do not have the time to hand wash.

Cons:

• It can eventually strip the non-stick coating on the basket, reducing its lifespan.
• It takes up a lot of valuable dishwasher space.
• It may not be necessary as the non-stick coatings are usually easy to wipe clean with minimal scrubbing.
• It may not be safe for all air fryer models.
• It is not environmentally friendly as dishwashers use more water and energy than hand washing.

How to hand wash an air fryer tray

While some sources say that it is possible to put an air fryer tray in the dishwasher, others advise against it, citing potential damage to the non-stick coating. So, if you want to keep your air fryer tray in tip-top condition, hand washing is the way to go. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to hand wash your air fryer tray:

Step 1: Unplug and Let It Cool

Before you start scrubbing, make sure your air fryer is unplugged and has cooled down completely. This is an important safety precaution, as it reduces the risk of burns and makes it safer to handle.

Step 2: Remove the Tray

Take out the tray carefully. If there are any other removable parts, such as a basket or pan, remove them as well and set them aside.

Step 3: Soak the Tray

If there is baked-on grease or stubborn residue, fill your sink with hot water and add some dish soap or washing-up liquid. You can also add a little detergent or a dishwasher tablet to the water to help loosen any stubborn grime. Then, place the tray in the sink and let it soak for about 20 minutes to half an hour.

Step 4: Wash the Tray

After soaking, use a soft sponge or cloth to wash the tray with warm, soapy water. Avoid using abrasive sponges, metal utensils, or harsh chemicals, as these can damage the non-stick coating. Gently scrub away any remaining food residue or grease. If there are hard-to-reach areas or vents, use a soft-bristled brush to get into these nooks and crannies.

Step 5: Rinse and Dry

Once you've scrubbed away all the grease and grime, thoroughly rinse the tray with clean water. Then, use a towel to dry the tray completely before putting it back into your air fryer.

Additional Tips:

• If you want to avoid the hassle of scrubbing, you can use air fryer liners or parchment paper to catch any food drippings and prevent them from sticking to the tray.
• To remove strong odours from your air fryer tray, create a paste by mixing baking soda and water, and apply it to the affected areas. Leave it for about 20 minutes, and then gently scrub or wipe it away.
• Always allow your air fryer tray to cool down before washing it under the faucet to prevent warping.

How to clean an air fryer tray with stubborn residue

It is important to clean your air fryer after each use, especially because of the type of food often cooked in it. Oils and food particles can collect in the basket, which can be difficult to clean.

Before Cleaning

Before you begin cleaning, it is important to unplug the air fryer and let it cool down.

Cleaning Methods

Soaking

One of the most popular methods to clean an air fryer tray is to soak it in warm or hot water with dish soap for about 20 minutes. You can also add a few drops of lemon juice or vinegar to the water to help break down the grease. After soaking, you can use a soft sponge or a non-abrasive scrub pad to gently scrub away any remaining residue.

Baking Soda and Lemon Paste

Create a paste by mixing two tablespoons of baking soda with the juice of half a lemon and a teaspoon of hot water. Apply the paste to the problem areas and let it sit for about 20 minutes before wiping it off with a damp cloth or gently scrubbing it with a soft toothbrush or sponge.

Vinegar and Lemon Juice Steam

Fill a ceramic ramekin with 1/4 cup of white vinegar and the juice of half a lemon. Place the ramekin in the air fryer and set it to 400 degrees Fahrenheit for five minutes. After heating, let the steam work its magic for about 30 minutes. This method is great for loosening grease and neutralizing strong odours.

Dishwasher Tablet

If your air fryer tray is dishwasher-safe, you can fill it with hot water and add a dishwasher tablet. Let it sit for about an hour, then rinse it thoroughly.

General Tips

• Always check your manufacturer's instructions before cleaning your air fryer.
• Avoid using metal utensils or abrasive sponges as they can scratch the non-stick coating.
• Make sure the air fryer is unplugged and cooled down before cleaning.
• For very stubborn residue, you may need to repeat the cleaning process or try a few different methods.
• To make cleaning easier, line your air fryer tray with tin foil or a silicone baking mould before cooking.

By following these steps and methods, you can effectively clean an air fryer tray with stubborn residue and keep your appliance in good condition.

Other air fryer cleaning tips

Whether or not you can put an air fryer tray in the dishwasher depends on the model. Most air fryers have dishwasher-safe parts, but it's always best to check the instruction manual for your specific model.

Now, here are some other tips for cleaning your air fryer:

• Before cleaning, make sure your air fryer is unplugged and has cooled down completely.
• If washing by hand, use warm or hot soapy water and a soft sponge or cloth to clean the basket, tray, and pan. Avoid using too much soap, as it can react negatively with the non-stick coating.
• Avoid using aerosol sprays, as these can also react negatively with the non-stick coating. Instead, use oil or butter.
• Allow the basket to soak in warm, soapy water if there is an excess of sticky residue.
• To remove stubborn residue, create a paste with baking soda and water, apply it to the affected areas, and leave it for 20 minutes before wiping or gently scrubbing it off.
• If your air fryer has a removable rack, you can soak it in hot, soapy water and use a small brush to clean it.
• For very baked-in marks, place a dishwasher tablet inside the basket, fill it with hot water, and leave it for an hour before rinsing.
• To make cleaning easier, line the basket with tin foil or a silicone baking mould before placing food inside.
• To eliminate odours, mix baking soda and water to form a paste, then use a scrub brush or toothbrush to scrub the interior of the air fryer.
• Avoid using metal utensils or abrasive sponges, as these can damage the non-stick coating.
• Dry all parts completely before reassembling the air fryer.

Frequently asked questions