Air Fryer Clean-Up: Dishwasher-Safe Baskets?

Air fryers have become a common kitchen appliance, with nearly 6 in 10 Americans owning one. While air fryers are convenient for cooking, they can be a hassle to clean. Many people wonder if they can put their air fryer baskets in the dishwasher. The answer depends on the specific model of the air fryer and the material of the basket. Some air fryer baskets are made of plastic or metal, while others have a non-stick coating. It is important to check the manufacturer's instructions before putting the basket in the dishwasher, as some models may not be dishwasher-safe. While it is possible to put some air fryer baskets in the dishwasher, it is generally recommended to hand wash them to avoid potential damage to the non-stick coating and to prolong the life of the basket.

Cleaning an air fryer basket by hand

Air fryer baskets should not be washed in the dishwasher. Instead, they should be cleaned by hand after each use. Here is a step-by-step guide to cleaning your air fryer basket:

Step 1: Let it Cool

Before you begin cleaning, it is important to let the air fryer basket cool down. Do not put it under cool running water or submerge it in water while it is still hot.

Step 2: Blot Excess Oil

Once the basket has cooled, use paper towels to blot up any excess oil. This will make the cleaning process easier and help prevent a build-up of grease.

Step 3: Soak the Basket

Fill your sink with hot water and add dish soap. You can also add other cleaning agents such as vinegar, lemon juice, or baking soda to boost the cleaning power of the soak. Submerge the basket in the water and let it soak for at least 20 minutes. For tougher grease and grime, you may need to soak it for longer.

Step 4: Scrub the Basket

After soaking, use a soft sponge or cloth to scrub the basket. Do not use abrasive brushes or sharp objects as these can damage the coating of the basket. For tough debris, you can use a soft-bristled brush or a new, soft-bristled toothbrush. Rinse the basket with warm water and allow it to air dry, or towel dry with a clean cloth.

Step 5: Remove Odours

If your air fryer basket has absorbed any strong odours from cooking, you can use citrus fruits to neutralize the smell. Add the juice of a lemon or orange to your warm, soapy water during the soaking process. You can also place sliced lemons or oranges in the basket and cook them at a low temperature to help eliminate odours.

Additional Tips:

• Always unplug your air fryer before cleaning.
• Do not use harsh, abrasive cleaners as they can damage the coating of the basket.
• Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning your specific model of air fryer.

Potential damage to the non-stick coating

The non-stick coating on an air fryer basket can be damaged by the high heat and high water pressure of a dishwasher, which can lead to warping, discolouration, and flaking. The harsh detergent used in dishwashers can also compromise the integrity of the non-stick coating. As a result, it is generally recommended to hand wash air fryer baskets with mild soap and warm water, using a soft sponge or cloth to avoid scratching the non-stick coating.

The high heat and pressure of a dishwasher can be too aggressive for an air fryer basket, causing the non-stick coating to warp, discolour, or flake. This damage can render the basket unsafe for use, as it may allow food to stick to the surface and increase the difficulty of cleaning. Warping can also affect the basket's shape, preventing it from fitting properly in the air fryer.

The detergent used in dishwashers is designed to effectively remove grease and food residue from dishes. However, these detergents are often too harsh for the non-stick coating on air fryer baskets. The chemicals in the detergent can break down the coating, making it more susceptible to damage and potentially allowing it to chip or peel. This can not only affect the performance of the basket but also pose a health risk if consumed.

Additionally, the high heat and pressure of the dishwasher can force water into any small cracks or crevices in the coating, causing it to lift or flake off. This can result in an uneven surface that is more difficult to clean and may promote the growth of bacteria. The combination of high heat, pressure, and harsh detergent can significantly reduce the lifespan of the non-stick coating, requiring it to be replaced more frequently.

To avoid potential damage to the non-stick coating, it is recommended to hand wash air fryer baskets using mild soap and warm water. A soft sponge or cloth should be used to avoid scratching the coating. Soaking the basket in warm, soapy water can help loosen any stubborn residue, and a soft-bristled brush can be used for particularly tough debris. Ensuring the basket is completely dry before storing it can also help prevent rust and maintain the integrity of the coating.

How to clean an air fryer basket that isn't dishwasher-safe

It is recommended to clean your air fryer basket after each use. Firstly, let the air fryer cool down. Then, remove the basket and tray and wash them with warm, soapy water in the sink. You can also soak the basket in a solution of warm, soapy water for 10-15 minutes to loosen stuck-on food. Use a soft, clean sponge or cloth to clean the basket and tray. Rinse the basket and tray under warm, running water and let them air dry, or towel dry with a clean cloth.

For tough messes like grease, breading, and chocolate, use a designated appliance cleaning brush or a new, soft-bristle toothbrush with warm, soapy water to remove the debris. If needed, you can submerge the cooled basket in warm, soapy water and let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes. Then, try scrubbing it again with the brush to remove any leftover mess.

For tough odors, add a tablespoon of fresh lemon or orange juice to the warm, soapy water.

Do not use harsh, abrasive cleaners or sharp objects such as knives or hard brushes to clean the basket.

The manufacturer's instructions

The first step to deciding whether you can put your air fryer basket in the dishwasher is to read the manufacturer's instructions. You should have received a booklet with this information when you purchased your fryer. If you did not receive the instructions, you can easily look up your model's manufacturer booklet online. This will tell you whether your air fryer basket is or isn't dishwasher-safe.

If your air fryer basket is dishwasher-safe, the manufacturer has added coatings to withstand the hot water, high pressure, and high heat of the dishwasher. In this case, all you need to do is rinse off the basket with warm water, then put it in the dishwasher and run it with the rest of your dishes. It is a good idea to make sure it is completely dry once the cycle is complete, as water residue could cause some rusting.

If your air fryer basket is not dishwasher-safe, it is still not difficult to clean. First, shake or wipe off any loose crumbs or large pieces of food. Then, wash the basket using a soft sponge or cloth and warm soapy water. Be sure to clean each crevice and, if your basket has rubber pieces on the sides, be sure to clean underneath them, as grease can build up there. Dry your basket well, then put it away once the rest of the air fryer is clean.

While most air fryer baskets are dishwasher-safe, you should not assume that yours is unless you have read the manufacturer's instructions. In addition, you might consider the wear and tear that a dishwasher can cause to the non-stick coating on your basket. Many people choose to hand-clean their air fryers, and you may decide to do so if you wish to avoid potential damage to the non-stick coating.

Potential warping, discolouration, and flaking of the non-stick coating

While some air fryer baskets are dishwasher-safe, it is not recommended due to the potential damage that can occur to the non-stick coating. The high heat and water pressure in a dishwasher can cause warping, discolouration, and flaking of the non-stick coating.

The non-stick coating on an air fryer basket is designed to make it easier to clean and maintain. However, the harsh conditions in a dishwasher can compromise the integrity of this coating. The high temperatures and aggressive cleaning agents can be too much for the coating to handle, causing it to warp, discolour, or flake off.

Warping occurs when the high heat of the dishwasher causes the basket to change shape or become misshapen. This can affect the performance of the basket, as it may no longer fit properly in the air fryer or sit evenly. Discolouration is also a possibility, where the coating may change colour or become stained due to the high heat and harsh detergents.

Flaking of the non-stick coating is another common issue. The combination of high water pressure and harsh detergents can cause the coating to break down and flake off, leaving your basket with an uneven or patchy coating. This not only affects the performance of the basket but can also be a health hazard, as you do not want to be consuming flakes of the non-stick coating.

To avoid these potential issues, it is recommended to hand wash your air fryer basket. Using warm, soapy water and a soft sponge or cloth is usually all that is needed to keep your basket clean. Soaking the basket in warm, soapy water can also help to loosen any stubborn residue. By hand washing, you can avoid the potential damage that a dishwasher can cause and ensure the longevity of your air fryer basket.

Frequently asked questions