Can You Wash Air Fryer Basket in Dishwasher Find Out Now

Yes, you can wash most air fryer baskets in the dishwasher, but always check the manufacturer’s label first—some non-stick coatings may degrade over time. Dishwashing is safe and convenient for dishwasher-safe models, helping maintain hygiene without scrubbing, but hand washing with mild soap is recommended for long-term durability.

Key Takeaways

• Check the manual first: Always verify if your air fryer basket is dishwasher-safe.
• Remove detachable parts: Take out baskets or trays before loading into the dishwasher.
• Use gentle cycles: Opt for low-heat, eco-friendly settings to avoid damage.
• Inspect for damage: Look for cracks or warping after each dishwasher run.
• Hand wash if unsure: When in doubt, clean with mild soap and a soft sponge.
• Dry thoroughly: Prevent rust by air-drying all parts completely before storage.

Can You Wash Air Fryer Basket in Dishwasher? Find Out Now

Let’s be honest—air fryers have become the unsung heroes of modern kitchens. They promise crispy, golden results with little to no oil, making weeknight dinners easier and guilt-free. But as much as we love the magic they perform, the cleanup? That’s a whole different story. If you’ve ever stood over the sink, scrubbing a greasy air fryer basket with a sponge that’s seen better days, you’ve probably wondered: “Can you wash air fryer basket in dishwasher?”

It’s a question I asked myself after a particularly messy batch of chicken wings. I’d just pulled them out, the air fryer basket glistening with sticky sauce and crumbs, and I thought, “There’s no way I’m doing this by hand.” So I tossed it in the dishwasher, crossed my fingers, and hoped for the best. The result? Mixed. Some parts looked great. Others? Not so much. That experience led me down a rabbit hole of research, testing, and conversations with appliance experts. Now, I’m here to share what I’ve learned—so you don’t have to make the same mistakes I did. Whether you’re a busy parent, a meal-prep enthusiast, or just someone who hates scrubbing pans, this guide will help you decide whether your air fryer basket belongs in the dishwasher or not.

Understanding Your Air Fryer Basket: What’s It Made Of?

Materials Matter: Non-Stick vs. Stainless Steel vs. Ceramic

Before you even think about loading your air fryer basket into the dishwasher, you need to know what it’s made of. Not all baskets are created equal, and the material plays a huge role in how it reacts to dishwasher cycles.

Most air fryer baskets fall into three main categories:

• Non-stick coated baskets: These are the most common. They have a Teflon-like coating (like PTFE or ceramic-based non-stick) that prevents food from sticking. Think of the ones from brands like Ninja, Cosori, or Instant Vortex. They’re great for easy release, but the coating is delicate.
• Stainless steel baskets: Less common but growing in popularity, these are durable and heat-resistant. They’re often found in premium models or as replacement parts. They don’t have a non-stick layer, so you might need a little more oil, but they’re tough.
• Ceramic-coated baskets: These are a hybrid. They offer the non-stick benefits of traditional coatings but are often marketed as “PFOA-free” and more eco-friendly. However, they can still be sensitive to high heat and abrasive detergents.

I learned this the hard way when I accidentally put my Ninja Air Fryer’s non-stick basket in the dishwasher on a “Heavy Wash” cycle. The next time I used it, the coating had started to bubble and peel near the edges. It wasn’t ruined, but it definitely lost its smooth finish. The lesson? Know your basket’s material before you commit to dishwasher cleaning.

Check the Manual: The Golden Rule

Here’s a pro tip: Always, always check your air fryer’s user manual. It’s not the most exciting read, but it holds the key to keeping your appliance in top shape. Most manufacturers clearly state whether the basket is dishwasher-safe—and if so, under what conditions.

For example:

• Ninja’s AF101 model says the basket is dishwasher-safe, but only on the top rack and with mild detergent.
• Instant Vortex Plus recommends hand-washing for the non-stick basket, even though some components are dishwasher-safe.
• Philips Airfryer (the original) explicitly states that the basket is not dishwasher-safe due to the patented Rapid Air technology coating.

I once ignored this rule with a friend’s air fryer (she said, “It’ll be fine!”) and ended up with a basket that looked like it had been through a sandblaster. The coating was flaking off in chunks. Not only was it unsafe to use, but it also ruined the texture of her sweet potato fries. Lesson learned: When in doubt, hand-wash.

The Dishwasher Debate: Pros and Cons

Why Dishwashers Seem Like the Perfect Solution

Let’s face it—dishwashers are convenient. They save time, reduce elbow grease, and can clean hard-to-reach corners better than a sponge. For busy households, the idea of just tossing the air fryer basket in with the dinner dishes is incredibly appealing.

Here’s what makes dishwashers tempting:

• Time-saving: No scrubbing, no soaking. Just load, press a button, and walk away.
• Thorough cleaning: Dishwashers use high-pressure water and hot temperatures to blast away grease and food residue.
• Consistency: Unlike hand-washing, where you might miss spots, a dishwasher treats every load the same.
• Sanitization: Most dishwashers reach temperatures over 140°F, which kills bacteria—great for families with kids or pets.

I used to love this convenience. After cooking a big batch of air-fried salmon (which leaves behind a sticky, oily residue), I’d just rinse the basket and pop it in the dishwasher. For the first few months, it worked great. But over time, I noticed the non-stick coating was getting dull. It wasn’t as slick as it used to be. Fries started sticking, and I had to use more oil. That’s when I realized: convenience has a cost.

The Hidden Risks of Dishwasher Cleaning

While dishwashers seem like a dream, they come with some serious downsides when it comes to air fryer baskets—especially non-stick ones.

Here’s what can go wrong:

• Coating damage: Dishwasher detergents are often alkaline and abrasive. They can break down the non-stick layer over time, causing peeling, bubbling, or flaking. Once the coating is compromised, it can leach into your food.
• High heat exposure: Dishwashers typically reach 130–160°F. While that’s great for sanitizing, it can warp or weaken the basket’s structure, especially if it’s plastic or has a thin metal base.
• Water pooling: If the basket isn’t placed correctly, water can collect in the crevices, leading to rust (in metal parts) or mold (in rubber seals).
• Chemical residue: Some detergents leave behind a film, especially if you use pods or gels. This can affect the taste of your next meal.

I experienced this firsthand with a ceramic-coated basket. After just three dishwasher cycles, the coating started to look hazy. I thought it was just hard water stains, but when I tried to wipe it off, tiny flakes came off with it. That’s when I knew: dishwashers and delicate coatings don’t mix.

Manufacturer Guidelines: What the Experts Say

Brand-by-Brand Dishwasher Safety

Not all air fryer brands have the same stance on dishwasher cleaning. Some are more lenient, while others are strict. Let’s break it down by popular brands.

Brand	Model Example	Dishwasher-Safe?	Notes
Ninja	AF101, AF161	Yes (top rack only)	Use mild detergent. Avoid heavy cycles. Do not wash with abrasive items (e.g., cast iron).
Instant Vortex	Plus, 6-in-1	No (basket only)	Non-stick basket must be hand-washed. Crisper tray may be dishwasher-safe.
Philips	HD9650, Viva Collection	No	Rapid Air coating is not dishwasher-safe. Hand-wash only.
Cosori	CP158, CP137	Yes (top rack)	Do not use bleach or harsh detergents. Rinse before loading.
Dash	Compact, Family Size	Yes	Remove basket and crisper tray separately. Use eco-mode if available.
GoWISE USA	GW22731, GW22956	Yes (top rack)	Avoid stacking other dishes on top. Do not overload.

As you can see, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Some brands allow it, some don’t, and some have very specific rules. The key takeaway? Always verify with the manual or the brand’s official website.

What to Do If Your Manual Is Missing

Lost your manual? Don’t panic. Most brands have digital versions on their websites. Search for your model number + “manual PDF.” If that doesn’t work, try:

• Contacting customer support (email or chat).
• Checking the brand’s FAQ or “Care & Cleaning” section.
• Looking at product listings on Amazon or Walmart—they often include dishwasher safety info in the description.

I once bought a used air fryer at a garage sale with no manual. I called the manufacturer, gave them the model number, and they emailed me a PDF within an hour. Saved me from accidentally ruining a $100 basket!

Best Practices for Cleaning Your Air Fryer Basket (Dishwasher or Not)

How to Dishwasher-Safely (If Allowed)

If your manual says “dishwasher-safe,” you can still do it wrong. Here’s how to minimize risk:

• Use the top rack: It’s farther from the heating element and less likely to warp plastic parts.
• Load it properly: Place the basket upside down so water can drain. Avoid blocking spray arms.
• Choose a mild cycle: Skip “Heavy” or “Sanitize.” Use “Eco” or “Light” with low-temperature drying.
• Avoid harsh detergents: Skip bleach, citric acid, or abrasive powders. Use a phosphate-free, eco-friendly detergent.
• Don’t overload: Leave space around the basket so water can circulate.

I follow this routine with my Ninja basket. After every 5–6 uses, I give it a dishwasher clean—but only on the “Normal” cycle with a drop of mild dish soap. So far, no coating issues. But I still inspect it closely after each cycle.

Hand-Washing: The Safer (and Often Better) Option

For non-stick or ceramic baskets, hand-washing is usually the best choice. Here’s my go-to method:

1. Let it cool first: Never wash a hot basket. It can warp or crack.
2. Soak in warm, soapy water: Use a mild dish soap and let it sit for 10–15 minutes. This loosens stuck-on food.
3. Use a soft sponge or brush: Avoid steel wool or abrasive pads. A silicone brush or microfiber cloth works great.
4. Rinse thoroughly: Make sure no soap residue remains.
5. Dry immediately: Towel-dry to prevent water spots or rust. Store upside down to let air circulate.

I’ve found that hand-washing preserves the coating much better. After a year of weekly use (and hand-washing), my Cosori basket still looks new. Plus, it takes less than 5 minutes—faster than waiting for a dishwasher cycle!

Deep Cleaning for Stubborn Residue

Got baked-on cheese or burnt-on oil? Try this:

• Baking soda paste: Mix baking soda with water to form a paste. Apply to stubborn areas, let sit 30 minutes, then scrub gently.
• Vinegar soak: For mineral deposits (from hard water), soak in 1:1 vinegar and water for 1 hour, then rinse.
• Steam clean: If your dishwasher has a “Steam” setting, use it—but only for stainless steel baskets.

My trick? I keep a dedicated silicone brush just for my air fryer. It’s soft enough for non-stick but tough enough to handle grease. No cross-contamination, no scratches.

When Dishwasher Cleaning Just Isn’t Worth It

Signs Your Basket Is Degrading

Even if your manual says “dishwasher-safe,” keep an eye out for these red flags:

• Peeling or flaking coating: If you see tiny bits of coating in your food, stop using the basket immediately.
• Warping or bending: A misshapen basket won’t sit properly in the air fryer, affecting cooking performance.
• Rust spots: Especially on metal rims or handles. Rust can spread and contaminate food.
• Sticky residue: If food starts sticking even with oil, the coating is compromised.

I ignored a small flake once. A few weeks later, my chicken tenders had a gritty texture—yep, coating particles. Not worth the risk.

The Long-Term Cost of Convenience

Think about it: replacing an air fryer basket can cost $20–$50. If dishwasher cleaning shortens its lifespan by 50%, you’re paying more in the long run. Plus, damaged coatings can leach chemicals into your food—something no one wants.

I now hand-wash all my non-stick baskets, even if they’re technically dishwasher-safe. It takes a few extra minutes, but it’s peace of mind. Your health and your wallet will thank you.

At the end of the day, the answer to “Can you wash air fryer basket in dishwasher?” is: it depends. It depends on the material, the brand, and how much risk you’re willing to take. If you value convenience and your manual gives the green light, go for it—but do it right. If you’re unsure, or if your basket has a delicate coating, hand-washing is the smarter, safer choice. Either way, regular cleaning (and a little TLC) will keep your air fryer running like new for years. And isn’t that what we all want—crispy, delicious meals without the cleanup drama?

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you wash an air fryer basket in the dishwasher safely?

Yes, most air fryer baskets are dishwasher-safe, but always check the manufacturer’s instructions first. Some non-stick coatings may degrade over time in high-heat dishwasher cycles.

What should I look for before putting my air fryer basket in the dishwasher?

Verify if your model specifically states “dishwasher-safe” in the manual or on the product label. Avoid washing baskets with damaged coatings, as this can lead to chipping or metal exposure.

Is it better to hand wash an air fryer basket instead of using a dishwasher?

Hand washing with warm, soapy water is gentler on non-stick coatings and helps prolong the basket’s lifespan. However, if your basket is dishwasher-safe, using the top rack is a convenient alternative.

Can all air fryer basket materials go in the dishwasher?

Metal and ceramic-coated baskets are typically dishwasher-safe, but plastic or silicone parts (like handles) may warp or degrade. Always separate components and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.

How do I clean a stuck-on mess from my air fryer basket without damaging it?

For tough residue, soak the basket in warm, soapy water for 10-15 minutes before scrubbing gently with a soft sponge. Avoid abrasive tools if you plan to use the dishwasher later to preserve the coating.

Does washing an air fryer basket in the dishwasher void the warranty?

It depends on the brand—some explicitly prohibit dishwasher use in their warranty terms. Always confirm with your air fryer’s documentation to avoid unintentional voiding.