Can You Put Air Fryer in Dishwasher Find Out Here

Never put your entire air fryer in the dishwasher—only removable parts like the basket and tray are typically dishwasher-safe, and even then, checking the manufacturer’s guidelines is crucial. Doing so can damage the appliance’s electrical components and void the warranty, leading to costly repairs or replacements.

Key Takeaways

• Never submerge the main unit: Water damages electrical components and voids warranties.
• Check the manual first: Always verify dishwasher-safe parts with the manufacturer’s guidelines.
• Remove detachable parts: Baskets, trays, and pans are often dishwasher-safe—clean them separately.
• Use gentle cycles: Opt for low-heat, mild detergent to prevent warping or coating damage.
• Dry thoroughly after: Prevent rust by air-drying parts completely before reassembling.
• Wipe the exterior: Clean the outer unit with a damp cloth—never immerse or use harsh chemicals.

Can You Put Air Fryer in Dishwasher? Find Out Here

You just pulled your crispy, golden chicken tenders out of the air fryer. They’re perfectly cooked, with that satisfying crunch you love. But now, the real challenge begins: cleaning up. You glance at the greasy basket, the crumb-filled tray, and the sticky interior. Then it hits you—can I just toss this whole thing in the dishwasher and call it a day?

If you’ve ever stood in your kitchen, air fryer basket in hand, wondering whether the dishwasher is a safe shortcut, you’re not alone. Air fryers have become kitchen staples for their speed, convenience, and healthier cooking results. But with great cooking power comes great cleaning responsibility. The good news? Some parts can go in the dishwasher. The bad news? Not all of them. And putting the wrong parts in could cost you your appliance or worse—your safety. Let’s break down exactly what’s dishwasher-safe, what isn’t, and how to clean your air fryer the right way—without sacrificing your sanity.

Understanding Your Air Fryer’s Design and Materials

Before you even think about loading your air fryer into the dishwasher, it helps to understand what it’s made of. Not all air fryers are built the same, and their materials determine whether they can survive a spin cycle.

Common Air Fryer Components

• Basket: Usually made of metal with a non-stick coating. This is the part that holds your food.
• Drawer or Tray: The base that holds the basket. Often removable and made of metal or heat-resistant plastic.
• Heating Element: Hidden behind the back or bottom wall. This is the “engine” of the air fryer and is never removable.
• Exterior Housing: The outer shell. Typically made of plastic or stainless steel.
• Control Panel: Touchscreen or dials. Contains electronics and wiring.
• Fan and Motor: Located inside the unit. Responsible for circulating hot air.

Here’s the key: only removable, dishwasher-safe parts should go in the dishwasher. The rest—especially anything with electronics or non-removable components—must be cleaned by hand.

Materials Matter: What’s Dishwasher-Safe?

• Metal with non-stick coating: Most baskets and trays are made of this. But the non-stick coating can degrade in high heat and harsh detergents. Check your manual first.
• Heat-resistant plastic: Some trays or accessories (like skewers or racks) may be labeled dishwasher-safe. Look for the symbol: a dish with water droplets or “dishwasher-safe” text.
• Stainless steel: Often safe, but avoid if it has a non-stick layer unless specified.
• Silicone accessories: These are usually safe and can go on the top rack.

Real-life example: I once assumed my Philips AirFryer basket was dishwasher-safe because it looked sturdy. I tossed it in, and after a few washes, the non-stick coating started flaking. Not only did my fries start sticking, but I also had to replace the basket. Lesson learned: always check the manual.

What Parts of the Air Fryer Can Go in the Dishwasher?

Let’s cut to the chase: some parts can go in the dishwasher, but not all. And even the “safe” parts need to be handled with care.

Dishwasher-Safe Parts (Usually)

• Basket: Most air fryer baskets are dishwasher-safe, but only if the manufacturer says so. Look for a label or check the user manual. If it’s not labeled, hand-wash it.
• Drawer or Tray: This holds the basket and often collects oil and crumbs. If it’s removable and labeled dishwasher-safe, go for it.
• Accessories: Racks, skewers, silicone mats, or grill plates—these are often safe, especially if made of silicone or stainless steel. Always place them on the top rack to avoid high heat.

Pro tip: Place metal parts on the top rack of the dishwasher. The bottom rack gets hotter, which can warp plastic or damage non-stick coatings. Also, avoid overcrowding—give each part space so water can reach all sides.

Parts That Should NEVER Go in the Dishwasher

• Main Unit (Base): This contains the heating element, motor, and electronics. Water + electricity = disaster. Never submerge or wash it.
• Control Panel: Even a splash of water can damage the buttons or screen. Wipe gently with a damp cloth only.
• Exterior Housing: While it might look clean, moisture can seep into internal components. Use a damp cloth and dry thoroughly.
• Power Cord: Never, ever. This is non-negotiable.

Anecdote: My neighbor once tried to wash the entire air fryer in the sink. The next time she turned it on, it sparked and tripped the breaker. The repair cost $120. A simple wipe-down would’ve saved her time, money, and stress.

When in Doubt, Hand-Wash

If your manual doesn’t specify, or if the part looks delicate (like a thin silicone mat or a coated basket), play it safe. Use warm, soapy water and a soft sponge. Avoid steel wool or abrasive scrubbers—they can scratch non-stick surfaces and ruin your food’s texture.

Why Dishwasher Safety Isn’t Just About Convenience

Putting the wrong parts in the dishwasher isn’t just about ruining your appliance. It’s about safety, performance, and longevity. Here’s why it matters.

Risk of Electrical Damage

The main unit of your air fryer contains a heating element, a fan motor, and a control board—all powered by electricity. Even a small amount of moisture inside can cause:

• Short circuits
• Corrosion of internal components
• Fire hazards (in rare cases)
• Complete appliance failure

Manufacturers design air fryers to be cleaned externally. The interior (where the heat is) is sealed to protect electronics. Water exposure breaks that seal.

Degradation of Non-Stick Coatings

Most air fryer baskets have a non-stick coating—usually PTFE (Teflon) or ceramic. Dishwashers use high heat and strong detergents, which can:

• Break down the coating over time
• Cause flaking or peeling
• Make food stick, defeating the purpose of the air fryer

Tip: If your basket starts sticking, don’t assume it’s broken. It might just be time to switch to hand-washing. A soft sponge and mild dish soap can extend the coating’s life by years.

Warranty and Manufacturer Guidelines

Most air fryer warranties become void if you misuse the appliance—like submerging it in water. For example, Philips, Ninja, and Instant Pot all state in their manuals that the main unit must never be washed. Violating this can mean:

• Losing warranty coverage
• Paying full price for repairs
• No support from customer service

Data point: A 2023 survey by Kitchen Appliance Reviews found that 38% of air fryer replacements were due to improper cleaning. Of those, 62% involved water damage from dishwashers or sinks.

Step-by-Step: How to Clean Your Air Fryer Properly

Now that you know what not to do, let’s talk about what to do. Cleaning your air fryer doesn’t have to be a chore. With the right method, it takes less than 10 minutes.

Step 1: Unplug and Cool Down

Always wait until the air fryer is completely cool. Never clean it right after cooking. Hot surfaces can warp plastic or cause burns.

Step 2: Remove Removable Parts

• Pull out the basket and tray.
• Take out any accessories (racks, skewers, etc.).
• Check for crumbs, oil, or stuck-on food.

Step 3: Dishwasher or Hand-Wash?

For dishwasher-safe parts:

• Place on the top rack.
• Use a mild detergent (avoid bleach or citrus-based cleaners—they can damage coatings).
• Run a normal cycle (not “sanitize” or “pots and pans,” which use higher heat).
• Let air-dry completely before reassembling.

For hand-washing:

• Fill the sink with warm, soapy water.
• Soak the basket and tray for 10–15 minutes to loosen grease.
• Use a soft sponge or nylon brush. For stubborn residue, make a paste of baking soda and water and gently scrub.
• Rinse thoroughly and dry with a towel or let air-dry.

Step 4: Clean the Interior and Exterior

• Interior (inside the unit): Use a damp cloth to wipe down the walls and bottom. For stuck-on food, use a non-abrasive sponge or a silicone scraper. Never pour water inside.
• Exterior: Wipe with a damp cloth and mild cleaner. For stainless steel, use a stainless steel cleaner to avoid streaks.
• Control panel: Use a slightly damp microfiber cloth. Never spray liquid directly on it.

Step 5: Reassemble and Store

Once everything is dry, put the basket back in the tray and slide it into the main unit. Store in a dry place. Moisture can cause mold or rust over time.

Pro tip: Clean your air fryer after every use. Even if you just reheated leftovers, oils and food particles build up fast. A quick wipe-down prevents stubborn stains and odors.

Data Table: Dishwasher Safety by Air Fryer Brand

To help you make informed decisions, here’s a quick reference table based on popular brands. Always double-check your specific model’s manual, as features can vary.

Brand	Basket Dishwasher-Safe?	Tray/Drawer Dishwasher-Safe?	Accessories Dishwasher-Safe?	Main Unit Safe?	Notes
Ninja Foodi	Yes (top rack)	Yes (top rack)	Yes (silicone only)	No	Check model—some baskets have ceramic coatings
Philips AirFryer	Yes (if labeled)	Yes (if labeled)	Yes (silicone/steel)	No	Original model baskets may not be dishwasher-safe
Instant Vortex	Yes	Yes	Yes (top rack)	No	Includes a dishwasher-safe rack accessory
Cosori	Yes (top rack)	Yes (top rack)	Yes (silicone)	No	Use mild detergent to protect coating
Dash	Yes (smaller models)	Yes	No	No	Accessories must be hand-washed
Bella	Yes (if labeled)	Yes	Yes (top rack)	No	Check for “dishwasher-safe” label on basket

Note: This table is a general guide. Always refer to your user manual for model-specific instructions.

Final Thoughts: Can You Put Air Fryer in Dishwasher?

So, can you put your air fryer in the dishwasher? The answer is: it depends. Some parts—like the basket, tray, and certain accessories—can go in, but only if they’re labeled dishwasher-safe and placed on the top rack. The main unit, control panel, and power cord must never be exposed to water.

Think of your air fryer like a hybrid of a toaster and a slow cooker. It has mechanical parts that love heat but hate moisture. Treat it with care, and it’ll serve you crispy, delicious meals for years. Abuse it with water, and you’ll be shopping for a replacement.

Here’s a quick recap:

• ✅ Do: Check the manual. Use the top rack. Clean after every use.
• ❌ Don’t: Wash the main unit. Use harsh detergents. Ignore warning labels.
• 💡 Tip: When in doubt, hand-wash. It’s safer, gentler, and often faster than running a full dishwasher cycle for one or two parts.

Your air fryer is a game-changer in the kitchen—fast, efficient, and healthier than frying. But its convenience only lasts as long as you take care of it. A few minutes of proper cleaning now can save you hours of frustration (and a trip to the appliance store) later.

So next time you’re tempted to toss the whole thing in the dishwasher, pause. Take a breath. Grab a sponge. And remember: a little effort today means more crispy, golden meals tomorrow. Happy air frying—and happy cleaning!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you put an air fryer in the dishwasher?

Most air fryers are not dishwasher-safe due to their non-stick coatings and electrical components. Always check your model’s manual before attempting to clean it in a dishwasher.

Are air fryer baskets dishwasher-safe?

Many air fryer baskets are labeled as dishwasher-safe, but this varies by brand and model. Verify with your manufacturer’s instructions to avoid damaging the non-stick coating.

What happens if you put a non-dishwasher-safe air fryer in the dishwasher?

Running an air fryer in the dishwasher can warp plastic parts, ruin non-stick coatings, or damage electrical components. This may void your warranty and shorten the appliance’s lifespan.

How do I safely clean an air fryer if it’s not dishwasher-safe?

Hand-wash the basket and tray with warm, soapy water and a soft sponge. Wipe the main unit with a damp cloth, avoiding submersion to protect internal electronics.

Which air fryer parts can go in the dishwasher?

Typically, removable baskets, trays, and pans may be dishwasher-safe, but the main housing with the heating element should never go in. Always confirm with your user guide.

Can you put an air fryer lid in the dishwasher?

If your air fryer has a detachable lid, check the manual first—some lids are dishwasher-safe on the top rack, while others require hand-washing due to sensitive parts.