Can Air Fryer Be Washed in Dishwasher Safely and Easily

Most air fryer baskets and pans are dishwasher-safe, making cleanup quick and convenient—just check your model’s manual to confirm. Never submerge the main unit or heating element, as water and electronics don’t mix, but removable parts like trays and racks often handle a cycle with ease.

Key Takeaways

• Check the manual first: Always verify if your air fryer is dishwasher-safe before washing.
• Remove non-stick parts: Detach baskets and trays to prevent damage in the dishwasher.
• Use mild detergent: Harsh chemicals can degrade non-stick coatings over time.
• Load carefully: Place components securely to avoid warping or chipping during cycles.
• Inspect for residue: Clean hard-to-reach areas manually if food particles remain post-wash.
• Avoid high heat: Opt for gentle cycles to preserve materials and extend lifespan.

Why Cleaning Your Air Fryer Matters

Let’s be honest—air fryers are the superheroes of modern kitchens. They promise crispy fries without the guilt, golden chicken wings without the deep fryer mess, and even reheated pizza that actually tastes good (yes, it’s possible). But here’s the thing: after all that deliciousness, there’s always that one question lingering in the back of your mind: can air fryer be washed in dishwasher safely and easily?

I remember the first time I pulled my air fryer out of the box. I was so excited to try it—until I realized how much cleaning was involved. Grease splatter, stuck-on crumbs, that weird smell after cooking fish… ugh. And then I thought, “Wait, I have a dishwasher. Can I just toss the parts in there?” Spoiler alert: it depends. And that’s exactly what we’re going to unpack today.

Understanding Air Fryer Components and Dishwasher Compatibility

Before you even think about loading your air fryer into the dishwasher, it’s crucial to know what parts you can—and absolutely cannot—put in there. Not all air fryers are built the same, and their dishwasher safety varies wildly depending on the model and materials used.

Main Parts of an Air Fryer

• Basket or cooking drawer: The removable container where you place your food. Often coated with non-stick material.
• Inner pot or crisper plate: The flat tray or grill inside the basket that holds food. Sometimes removable, sometimes fixed.
• Heating element and fan: Located at the top of the unit. These are permanently sealed and should never get wet.
• Exterior housing: The main body that contains electronics, controls, and the motor. This is not dishwasher-safe under any circumstances.
• Power cord and plug: Obviously not dishwasher-safe. Keep it dry at all times.

The key takeaway? Only the removable, food-contact parts are potentially dishwasher-safe. And even then, it depends.

Materials That Can (and Can’t) Handle the Dishwasher

Here’s a quick breakdown of common materials and how they fare in the dishwasher:

• Non-stick coated metal baskets: Many are dishwasher-safe, but repeated high-heat cycles can degrade the coating over time. I’ve had a basket where the coating started flaking after 6 months of weekly dishwasher use. Not ideal.
• Stainless steel baskets: Usually safe, but check for manufacturer warnings. Some stainless steel parts have plastic handles or coatings that can warp.
• Silicone liners or mats: Often safe, but high heat can cause them to discolor or degrade. I once put a silicone liner in the top rack and it melted slightly—never again.
• Plastic parts (handles, lids, accessories): Usually not safe. Dishwashers get hot, and plastic can warp, crack, or release microplastics. One friend put her air fryer’s plastic lid in the dishwasher and it came out warped like a potato chip.
• Aluminum parts: Can react with dishwasher detergents, leading to discoloration or pitting. Not recommended unless explicitly stated by the manufacturer.

Pro tip: Always check the manual that came with your air fryer. It’s boring, I know, but it’s your best friend here. Look for phrases like “dishwasher-safe,” “top rack only,” or “hand wash recommended.”

Manufacturer Guidelines: What the Experts Say

You might think, “I’ll just try it and see what happens.” But trust me—I’ve been there. One time, I put a non-stick basket in the dishwasher “just once” to test it. It came out with tiny bubbles under the coating. After a few more washes, it started flaking. Ruined the basket. Learned my lesson.

Brand-Specific Dishwasher Recommendations

Here’s a quick look at what major brands say about dishwasher safety:

• Ninja Air Fryer (most models): The basket and crisper plate are dishwasher-safe on the top rack only. The housing and control panel are not. Ninja explicitly warns against using abrasive cleaners or steel wool.
• Cosori Air Fryer: Their non-stick baskets are dishwasher-safe, but Cosori recommends hand washing to extend coating life. They also warn that high heat can damage the coating over time.
• Philips Airfryer: The drawer and basket are dishwasher-safe, but the heating element and exterior are not. Philips also notes that using harsh detergents can degrade non-stick surfaces.
• Instant Vortex: Most models list the basket and tray as dishwasher-safe. However, they caution against using the “pots and pans” or “sanitize” cycles, which are too hot.
• Dash Compact Air Fryer: The basket is dishwasher-safe, but the handle is plastic and should be hand washed. Dash also warns that dishwashing may reduce the lifespan of the non-stick coating.

Notice a pattern? Even when brands say “dishwasher-safe,” they often add caveats. It’s not a free pass to toss everything in.

Why Manufacturers Are Cautious

Manufacturers aren’t being picky—they’re protecting you (and themselves). Here’s why:

• Non-stick coatings: Most are PTFE or ceramic-based. Repeated high heat, harsh detergents, and abrasive scrubbing can break them down, leading to flaking or reduced performance.
• Electronics and seals: Even if a part looks waterproof, water can seep into tiny crevices and damage sensors or motors.
• Liability: If you damage your air fryer by dishwashing a non-safe part, the warranty might be voided. I once called support because my fryer wouldn’t turn on after I “accidentally” got water in the control panel. They said, “Yep, water damage—not covered.”

So, while it’s tempting to skip hand washing, following the manufacturer’s advice saves you time, money, and frustration in the long run.

Step-by-Step Guide to Dishwasher-Safe Cleaning

Okay, let’s say your air fryer’s manual says the basket is dishwasher-safe. Great! But there’s a right way and a wrong way to do it. Here’s how to clean your air fryer in the dishwasher safely and effectively.

1. Disassemble and Prep

Before anything else, unplug your air fryer and let it cool completely. Then:

• Remove the basket, crisper plate, and any accessories (like skewers or rotisserie forks).
• Wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth. Never submerge the main unit.
• Scrape off large food bits with a soft spatula or paper towel. Don’t use metal—it can scratch the coating.

Real-life tip: I keep a small silicone scraper by my sink. It’s perfect for getting stuck-on cheese or breadcrumbs off the basket without damaging the coating.

2. Check for Dishwasher Safety Labels

Look for a symbol on the bottom or side of the basket—usually a plate with a water droplet or “dishwasher-safe” text. If you don’t see it, assume it’s not safe.

3. Load the Dishwasher Correctly

• Place the basket and crisper plate on the top rack. Why? The bottom rack is hotter and closer to the heating element, which can warp plastic or damage coatings.
• Angle the basket so water can drain. Don’t let it sit flat—trapped water can cause rust or mildew.
• Use a dishwasher basket or holder for small accessories (like skewers) to prevent them from getting lost.

I once put my crisper plate on the bottom rack. It came out warped and didn’t fit back in the basket. Lesson learned: top rack only.

4. Choose the Right Cycle

• Use a gentle or normal cycle, not “pots and pans” or “sanitize.” These are too hot.
• Avoid high-heat dry settings. Let the parts air dry instead.
• Use a mild detergent. Harsh chemicals with bleach or citric acid can degrade non-stick coatings.

I use a phosphate-free, eco-friendly detergent. It’s gentler on coatings and doesn’t leave a weird film.

5. Inspect After Washing

• Check for warping, cracks, or coating damage.
• Wipe down any remaining water with a soft towel.
• Let the parts air dry completely before reassembling.

Pro tip: I leave my basket upside down on a drying rack for 30 minutes. It ensures no water pools in the corners.

When to Avoid the Dishwasher (And What to Do Instead)

Not every air fryer part should go in the dishwasher—even if the manual says it’s safe. Here are common scenarios where hand washing is the smarter choice.

1. Older or Worn Non-Stick Coatings

If your basket already has scratches, flaking, or bubbling, skip the dishwasher. The high heat and agitation will make it worse. Instead:

• Soak the basket in warm, soapy water for 10–15 minutes.
• Use a soft sponge or microfiber cloth to scrub gently.
• Rinse thoroughly and dry with a towel.

I once tried to dishwasher my 2-year-old basket that had a small scratch. It came out with half the coating gone. Now I hand wash anything with visible wear.

2. Air Fryers with Mixed Materials

Some baskets have plastic handles, silicone grips, or aluminum bases. These can warp, crack, or react with dishwasher detergents. Hand wash these parts separately.

3. After Cooking Strong-Smelling Foods

Fish, garlic, or curry can leave lingering odors. Dishwashers might not fully remove them, and the smell can transfer to other dishes. For these, I recommend:

• Soak the basket in a mix of warm water, baking soda, and a few drops of dish soap for 30 minutes.
• Scrub with a soft brush (like a toothbrush) to get into crevices.
• Rinse and wipe with a lemon juice-dampened cloth to neutralize odors.

One time I made salmon in my air fryer. The smell lingered for days, even after a dishwasher cycle. Baking soda saved the day.

4. High-End or Ceramic-Coated Models

Ceramic coatings are more fragile than traditional non-stick. Many manufacturers (like Ninja and Cosori) explicitly advise against dishwasher use for ceramic models. Always hand wash these.

5. If You’re in a Hurry

Let’s face it: dishwashers take time. If you need your air fryer back in 10 minutes, hand washing is faster. I keep a dedicated sponge and bowl by my sink for quick cleanups after dinner.

Data Table: Dishwasher Safety by Air Fryer Model

Brand & Model	Basket Dishwasher-Safe?	Crisper Plate Safe?	Notes
Ninja Air Fryer (AF101)	Yes (top rack only)	Yes (top rack only)	Hand wash recommended for longevity
Cosori Air Fryer (CP158)	Yes	Yes	High heat may degrade non-stick coating
Philips Airfryer (HD9650)	Yes	Yes	Do not use abrasive detergents
Instant Vortex (6QT)	Yes	Yes	Avoid sanitize cycle
Dash Compact (2.6QT)	Yes	Yes	Plastic handle—hand wash only
GoWISE USA (GW22731)	Yes	Yes	Do not use bleach or steel wool
Cosori Ceramic Coated (CS158)	No	No	Hand wash only to preserve ceramic

Note: Always verify with your specific model’s manual. This table is a general guide.

Final Thoughts: Can Air Fryer Be Washed in Dishwasher Safely and Easily?

So, can air fryer be washed in dishwasher safely and easily? The answer is: sometimes, but with conditions.

If your air fryer’s removable parts are explicitly labeled dishwasher-safe, and you follow best practices (top rack, mild detergent, gentle cycle), then yes—you can use the dishwasher. It’s a huge time-saver, especially if you cook often. I use mine every Sunday after meal prep, and it’s a game-changer.

But—and this is a big but—if your basket is old, has a ceramic coating, mixed materials, or any signs of wear, skip the dishwasher. The short-term convenience isn’t worth the long-term damage. Hand washing might take 5 extra minutes, but it keeps your air fryer working like new for years.

Here’s my final advice: Treat your air fryer like a good pair of jeans. It can handle a little wear, but you still want to take care of it. Read the manual, know your materials, and when in doubt, hand wash. And if you do use the dishwasher? Inspect your parts afterward. A quick glance can save you from a ruined basket down the road.

At the end of the day, the goal is to enjoy crispy, delicious food without the stress of cleaning. Whether you choose the dishwasher or the sink, what matters most is consistency and care. Happy air frying—and happy cleaning!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can air fryer baskets go in the dishwasher?

Most air fryer baskets with non-stick coatings are dishwasher-safe, but always check your model’s manual first. Some coatings may degrade over time with harsh detergents or high-heat cycles.

Is it safe to wash an air fryer in the dishwasher?

Only specific removable parts (like trays or baskets) are dishwasher-safe—never submerge the entire unit. The main housing with electrical components must be wiped clean with a damp cloth.

How do I know if my air fryer parts are dishwasher-safe?

Look for a “dishwasher-safe” symbol on the part or consult your user manual. If unsure, hand-washing with mild soap and water is the safest option to preserve coatings.

Can I put my air fryer basket in the dishwasher daily?

Frequent dishwasher use may wear down non-stick coatings faster. For longevity, hand-wash regularly and use the dishwasher sparingly, especially with abrasive detergents.

Are all air fryer accessories dishwasher-safe?

Not all accessories (e.g., silicone liners, metal racks) are dishwasher-compatible. Verify each item’s care instructions to avoid warping, rusting, or damage.

What happens if I wash the air fryer’s main unit in the dishwasher?

Never do this—the electrical components will short-circuit, ruining the device and creating safety hazards. Only removable, labeled-safe parts should go in the dishwasher.