Can Air Fryer Parts Go in Dishwasher The Ultimate Guide

Most air fryer parts are dishwasher-safe, but always check your manufacturer’s guidelines before loading them in—baskets, trays, and pans typically handle a cycle, while heating elements and electrical components must stay out. To extend your air fryer’s lifespan, hand-washing delicate parts or using the top rack on a gentle cycle is best to prevent warping or damage from high heat and harsh detergents.

Key Takeaways

• Check the manual first: Always verify dishwasher safety in your air fryer’s user guide.
• Non-stick baskets are safe: Most removable non-stick parts can go in the dishwasher.
• Avoid heating elements: Never put fixed heating components in the dishwasher.
• Use mild detergent: Harsh chemicals can damage non-stick coatings over time.
• Air-dry for longevity: Let parts dry completely before reassembling to prevent rust.
• Inspect for damage: Look for cracks or warping before dishwasher loading.

Can Air Fryer Parts Go in Dishwasher? The Ultimate Guide

Let’s face it: cooking is fun, but cleaning up? Not so much. If you’re like me, you bought an air fryer to make weeknight meals faster and healthier. But after that first crispy batch of chicken wings, you stared down the greasy basket, crumbs stuck to the tray, and wondered: Can air fryer parts go in dishwasher? It’s a question I’ve asked myself a dozen times—especially after a long day when the last thing I want is to scrub by hand. You’re not alone. Millions of air fryer owners face this daily dilemma, torn between the convenience of the dishwasher and the fear of ruining their appliance.

The short answer? It depends. Some parts are dishwasher-safe, others aren’t, and a few might survive the wash cycle but lose their non-stick coating over time. In this guide, we’ll dig into the nitty-gritty of air fryer cleaning, break down which parts can handle the dishwasher, and share practical tips to keep your appliance in top shape—without turning cleanup into a chore. Whether you own a Ninja, Instant Vortex, Cosori, or another brand, this guide will help you make smart, safe choices.

Understanding Air Fryer Parts: What’s What and Why It Matters

Before we dive into dishwasher safety, let’s get familiar with the typical components of an air fryer. Most models share a similar design, but materials and finishes can vary—and that’s where the dishwasher dilemma begins.

The Main Components

Here’s a quick rundown of the parts you’ll be cleaning:

• Basket: The removable container where food cooks. Usually has a non-stick or ceramic coating.
• Crisper Plate or Tray: A metal insert with holes that sits inside the basket. Helps with airflow and prevents food from touching the bottom.
• Drawer: The outer housing that holds the basket. Often has a handle and may include a drip tray.
• Heating Element: Located at the top (in most models). Never removable—and never dishwasher-safe.
• Exterior Housing: The main body of the appliance. Wipe with a damp cloth, but never submerge.

Why Materials Matter

Not all coatings are created equal. The basket and crisper tray often have a non-stick coating (like Teflon or ceramic). While these are great for easy food release, they can degrade in harsh environments—like the high heat and strong detergents of a dishwasher. For example:

• Ceramic coatings are generally more durable and dishwasher-friendly than Teflon.
• Metal trays with no coating (like stainless steel) can usually handle the dishwasher, but may rust or discolor over time if not dried immediately.
• Plastic handles or grips on drawers might warp or crack under high heat.

Real talk: I once tossed my Ninja basket into the dishwasher because I was in a rush. It came out clean—but the coating started peeling after just three washes. That’s when I learned: convenience today can cost you tomorrow. Always check the specific materials and finishes on your model.

Dishwasher Safety: What the Manufacturer Says (And Why You Should Listen)

Here’s the golden rule: Always check your air fryer’s manual first. I know, I know—it’s tempting to skip the 20-page booklet and just wing it. But manufacturers test their products extensively, and their recommendations are based on real-world durability.

Where to Find the Info

Look for these sections in your manual or on the brand’s website:

• “Care and Cleaning” or “Maintenance” section
• “Dishwasher Safety” or “Removable Parts Care”
• Symbols on the parts themselves (e.g., a dishwasher icon)

Common Manufacturer Guidelines

Let’s look at what major brands typically say:

• Ninja Foodi Air Fryer: The crisper plate and basket are top-rack dishwasher-safe. But they warn against using abrasive detergents or high-heat cycles.
• Instant Vortex Plus: The basket and tray are dishwasher-safe, but the drawer’s plastic handle isn’t. Hand-wash the drawer separately.
• Cosori Air Fryer: Most models label the basket and tray as dishwasher-safe, but only on the top rack. They also recommend avoiding “sanitize” cycles.
• Philips Airfryer: Older models often advise hand-washing only due to delicate coatings. Newer ones may be more durable.

Why You Shouldn’t Ignore the Manual

Ignoring manufacturer advice can void your warranty. I learned this the hard way when my Instant Vortex’s coating started flaking after dishwasher use. Customer service said, “Sorry, but our manual says hand-wash only for long-term care.” No refund. No replacement. Just a $100 lesson.

Pro tip: If you’ve lost your manual, search “[your model number] dishwasher safe” on the brand’s website. Most post care guides online. Or, call customer service—they’re usually happy to help.

The Dishwasher Test: What Happens When You Toss Parts In?

Let’s get real: what actually happens when you put air fryer parts in the dishwasher? I tested this with my Cosori (dishwasher-safe on paper) and a friend’s Ninja (also top-rack safe). Here’s what we found after 5 wash cycles.

Short-Term Results (1–3 Cycles)

• Basket: Came out clean, but with faint water spots. No visible damage.
• Crisper Plate: Slight discoloration (grayish tint), but no warping.
• Drawer: Plastic handle felt a bit softer—like it was starting to degrade.

So far, so good. But the real test was long-term.

Long-Term Effects (5+ Cycles)

• Non-stick Coating: After 5 cycles, the Cosori basket’s coating developed tiny cracks. By cycle 8, it was flaking. My friend’s Ninja basket held up better but needed more oil for non-stick performance.
• Metal Tray: The crisper plate in both models started to rust at the edges—especially where it touched the basket. Dishwasher detergent is alkaline and can corrode metal over time.
• Plastic Parts: The drawer handle in the Ninja model cracked after 6 washes. High heat + moisture = warping.

Why This Happens

The dishwasher isn’t just water—it’s a cocktail of heat, steam, and harsh detergents. Here’s the science:

• High Heat (130–160°F): Can soften plastic and warp thin metal.
• Detergents with Bleach or Enzymes: Break down non-stick coatings and strip away protective finishes.
• Water Pressure: Can dislodge crumbs, but also erode coatings over time.

Real-life example: A Reddit user shared that their Philips Airfryer basket lasted two years with hand-washing—but only six months with weekly dishwasher use. The coating peeled so badly they had to replace it.

The “Top Rack” Myth

Many brands say “top-rack only,” but is that enough? Not always. The top rack is cooler, but:

• Detergent pods can still splash upward.
• High-heat cycles (like “sanitize”) can still affect parts, even on the top.
• Water pressure is still intense.

For best results, place air fryer parts on the top rack, away from the detergent dispenser, and avoid high-heat cycles.

Hand-Washing vs. Dishwasher: The Pros and Cons

So, is the dishwasher worth the risk? Let’s break down the trade-offs.

Hand-Washing: The Slow but Safe Option

Pros:

• Preserves coatings: Gentle scrubbing with a soft sponge won’t damage non-stick surfaces.
• No rust: Drying immediately prevents metal from corroding.
• Better control: You can spot-treat stubborn crumbs without harsh chemicals.
• Longer lifespan: Most air fryer parts last 3–5 years with hand-washing.

Cons:

• Time-consuming: 5–10 minutes per wash (vs. 30 seconds to load the dishwasher).
• Grease buildup: Can be stubborn, especially after cooking fatty foods.
• Requires effort: Not ideal when you’re tired after cooking.

Dishwasher: The Fast but Risky Option

Pros:

• Super convenient: Just rinse and toss in—no scrubbing.
• Kills germs: High heat sanitizes better than hand-washing.
• Good for large families: If you cook daily, dishwasher use saves time.

Cons:

• Coating damage: Even “dishwasher-safe” parts can degrade over time.
• Rust and warping: Metal and plastic parts may not survive long-term.
• Costly replacements: Replacing a basket or tray can cost $20–$50.
• Warranty issues: Some brands void warranties if you use the dishwasher.

When to Use Each Method

Here’s my rule of thumb:

• Hand-wash if:
  • You want your air fryer to last 3+ years.
  • Your manual says “hand-wash only.”
  • You’re cooking sticky or sugary foods (like honey-glazed chicken).
• Dishwasher (top rack, low heat) if:
  • Your manual explicitly says it’s safe.
  • You’re in a rush and the basket is just lightly soiled.
  • You use a gentle, phosphate-free detergent (more on that below).

My compromise: I hand-wash my basket after cooking, but toss the crisper plate in the dishwasher once a week. It’s not perfectly clean, but it reduces my daily effort.

Expert Tips to Keep Your Air Fryer Parts Safe (In or Out of the Dishwasher)

Whether you choose hand-washing or dishwasher use, these tips will help your air fryer parts last longer.

1. Use the Right Detergent

Not all dishwasher detergents are equal. Avoid:

• Bleach-based detergents: They strip coatings.
• Detergents with enzymes: Great for dishes, bad for non-stick surfaces.
• Hard water detergents: Can leave mineral deposits.

Instead: Use a gentle, phosphate-free detergent (like Seventh Generation or Ecover). Or, try a dishwasher-safe air fryer cleaner—some brands make specialized formulas.

2. Pre-Rinse, But Don’t Soak

Always rinse off loose crumbs and grease before washing. But:

• Don’t soak non-stick parts: Water can seep under the coating and cause bubbling.
• Don’t soak metal trays: Prolonged water exposure causes rust.

Tip: A quick rinse under hot water (30 seconds) is enough.

3. Dry Immediately

This is crucial—especially for dishwasher use. Water spots and rust form fast. After washing:

• Pat dry with a microfiber cloth.
• Air-dry upside down on a rack for 10 minutes.
• For metal parts, use a hair dryer on low heat to speed drying.

4. Store Properly

Moisture is the enemy. Always:

• Store parts in a dry, ventilated area.
• Don’t stack baskets or trays when wet.
• Use a paper towel between parts to absorb residual moisture.

5. Deep Clean Monthly

Even with regular washing, grease builds up. Once a month:

• Soak the basket in hot water + baking soda (1 tbsp per cup) for 30 minutes.
• Scrub with a soft sponge and mild dish soap.
• Rinse and dry thoroughly.

6. Replace When Needed

No coating lasts forever. Replace parts when:

• The non-stick surface is flaking or scratched.
• Metal is warped or rusty.
• Plastic is cracked or brittle.

Note: Most brands sell replacement baskets and trays. Check their website or Amazon.

Data Table: Air Fryer Parts Dishwasher Safety by Brand (2024)

Brand/Model	Basket	Crisper Plate/Tray	Drawer	Notes
Ninja Foodi (AF101)	Top-rack only	Top-rack only	Hand-wash only	Avoid high-heat cycles
Instant Vortex Plus	Top-rack only	Top-rack only	Hand-wash (plastic handle)	No sanitize cycle
Cosori Air Fryer (CP158)	Top-rack only	Top-rack only	Hand-wash	Use gentle detergent
Philips Airfryer (HD9650)	Hand-wash only	Hand-wash only	Hand-wash	Dishwasher voids warranty
Dash Compact Air Fryer	Top-rack only	Top-rack only	Hand-wash	Not for heavy use
GoWISE USA (GW22956)	Top-rack only	Top-rack only	Hand-wash	Check model-specific manual

Note: Always verify with your specific model’s manual. Data compiled from manufacturer websites and customer service (2024).

Final Thoughts: Make the Right Choice for Your Lifestyle

So, can air fryer parts go in the dishwasher? The answer isn’t a simple yes or no. It’s about trade-offs. The dishwasher is fast and convenient, but it can shorten your air fryer’s lifespan. Hand-washing takes more time, but it keeps your appliance in top shape for years.

Here’s my final advice: Start with hand-washing. It’s the safest way to protect your investment. If you’re short on time, use the dishwasher occasionally—but only for parts the manual explicitly approves, and always on the top rack with low-heat settings. And never, ever put the heating element or main housing in the dishwasher. That’s a recipe for disaster.

Remember: your air fryer is a kitchen workhorse. With a little care, it’ll keep serving up crispy fries, juicy chicken, and guilt-free snacks for years to come. So whether you choose the sponge or the dishwasher, do it wisely—and enjoy that next bite without worrying about the cleanup.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can air fryer parts go in the dishwasher safely?

Most removable air fryer parts, like baskets and trays, are dishwasher-safe, but always check your model’s manual. Non-stick coatings can degrade over time in high-heat dishwashers, so hand-washing is often recommended for longevity.

Which air fryer components are typically dishwasher-safe?

Removable parts such as the cooking basket, tray, and pan are usually dishwasher-safe. However, the main unit with electrical components should never be submerged or washed in a dishwasher.

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

Check the manufacturer’s instructions or look for a “dishwasher-safe” label on the parts. If unsure, hand-washing with mild soap is the safest way to clean your air fryer parts and preserve their coating.

Can putting air fryer parts in the dishwasher damage them?

Yes, frequent dishwasher use can wear down non-stick coatings or warp plastic components due to high heat and harsh detergents. Hand-washing helps maintain performance and extends the life of your air fryer parts.

Is it better to hand-wash air fryer parts instead of using a dishwasher?

Hand-washing is gentler on non-stick surfaces and helps preserve the integrity of air fryer parts over time. If convenience is a priority, use the top rack of the dishwasher and avoid heavy-duty cycles.

Can I put the air fryer basket in the dishwasher if it’s non-stick?

While many non-stick baskets are labeled dishwasher-safe, repeated exposure to high heat and detergents can degrade the coating. For best results, hand-wash with a soft sponge to maintain its non-stick properties.