Can Air Fryer Trays Go in the Dishwasher Find Out Here

Yes, most air fryer trays are dishwasher-safe, but always check the manufacturer’s label to avoid damaging non-stick coatings or warping materials. Hand-washing is recommended for longevity, especially for trays with delicate finishes or mixed components like silicone or metal. When in doubt, opt for gentle cycles or manual cleaning to protect your air fryer tray’s performance and lifespan.

Key Takeaways

• Check manufacturer guidelines: Always verify dishwasher safety in your air fryer’s manual.
• Non-stick trays: Hand-wash to preserve coating and avoid dishwasher damage.
• Dishwasher-safe trays: Use mild detergent and avoid abrasive cleaning tools.
• Remove crumbs first: Pre-rinse trays to prevent food debris buildup.
• High heat warning: Skip sanitize cycles to protect tray integrity.
• Alternative cleaning: Soak stubborn residue in warm, soapy water before washing.

Can Air Fryer Trays Go in the Dishwasher? Find Out Here

Let’s face it—cooking with an air fryer is a game-changer. It gives you crispy, golden food without all the guilt of deep frying. But here’s the real question: can air fryer trays go in the dishwasher? You’ve probably stood over your kitchen sink, staring at that greasy basket, wondering if you can just toss it in with the rest of the dishes. After all, who has time to scrub by hand every single day?

I’ve been there. In fact, I remember the first time I used my air fryer. I made chicken wings, and they were perfect—crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside. But when I pulled out the tray, it was caked with sticky, baked-on sauce. I thought, “There’s no way I’m scrubbing this for 10 minutes.” So I did what many of us do: I popped it into the dishwasher. The next morning, I opened the machine and found a warped, discolored tray. Not good. That moment sparked a deep dive into the world of air fryer care—especially whether those trays can survive the dishwasher cycle. If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Can air fryer trays go in the dishwasher?”, you’re not alone. And the answer isn’t always as simple as a yes or no.

Understanding Your Air Fryer Tray: What It’s Made Of

Materials Matter: Non-Stick, Stainless Steel, and More

Not all air fryer trays are created equal. The material your tray is made from plays a huge role in whether it can handle the dishwasher. Let’s break it down.

Most air fryer trays are made from carbon steel or aluminum with a non-stick coating. This coating is usually a type of PTFE (like Teflon) or ceramic. These materials are great for even heat distribution and easy food release. But they’re also sensitive to high heat, abrasive cleaners, and harsh detergents—all of which are common in dishwashers.

Some higher-end models use stainless steel trays, which are more durable and often dishwasher-safe. However, even stainless steel can warp or discolor if exposed to extreme temperatures or aggressive dishwasher cycles. And let’s not forget about ceramic-coated trays—they look sleek and offer excellent non-stick properties, but they can crack or chip under thermal stress.

Here’s a real-life example: My friend Sarah owns a Ninja Air Fryer with a non-stick basket. She ran it through the dishwasher on “normal” cycle. After three uses, the coating started peeling. She didn’t notice at first, but then she found tiny black flakes in her food. Not exactly appetizing.

Why Material Affects Dishwasher Safety

The dishwasher isn’t just a water bath. It’s a high-pressure, high-temperature environment with chemical detergents. Here’s what happens:

• High heat (up to 160°F/70°C): Can warp plastic handles or degrade non-stick coatings.
• Detergent chemicals: Especially those with bleach or citric acid, can eat away at non-stick layers over time.
• Water jets: Can dislodge or damage coatings, especially if the tray is stacked or bangs against other items.

Think of it like putting a delicate silk scarf in a washing machine. It might survive once or twice, but eventually, the fabric frays. The same goes for your air fryer tray. The coating is delicate, even if the metal underneath is strong.

So, before you toss your tray into the dishwasher, ask yourself: What is it made of? If it has a non-stick coating—especially if it’s labeled “Teflon” or “non-stick”—you’re entering risky territory.

Manufacturer Guidelines: The First Rule of Air Fryer Care

Check the Manual (Yes, Really!)

I know—reading the manual feels like reading the terms and conditions of a software update. But when it comes to can air fryer trays go in the dishwasher, the manual is your best friend. Every brand and model has different recommendations, and ignoring them can void your warranty or shorten the lifespan of your appliance.

For example:

• Ninja Foodi: Some models (like the AF101) say the basket is dishwasher-safe, but the crisper plate is not. Confusing, right?
• Philips Airfryer: Most models state that the drawer and basket are dishwasher-safe, but only on the top rack and without harsh detergents.
• Cosori: Their website says the basket is dishwasher-safe, but they recommend hand-washing to preserve the non-stick coating.

That last point is key. Just because a tray can go in the dishwasher doesn’t mean it should. Manufacturers often list “dishwasher-safe” as a feature, but they also add caveats. It’s like saying, “You can drive 100 mph, but your tires might blow.”

Where to Find the Info (If You Lost the Manual)

Lost your manual? Don’t worry—most brands post them online. Just Google “[Your Air Fryer Model] manual PDF.” You’ll usually find a section called “Cleaning and Maintenance” or “Care Instructions.”

Look for keywords like:

• “Dishwasher safe”
• “Top rack only”
• “Hand wash recommended”
• “Avoid abrasive sponges”

Also, check the bottom of the tray or basket. Many brands stamp a symbol—like a dishwasher with a line through it (not safe) or a dishwasher with water droplets (safe). If you see a triangle with a number, that’s the plastic resin code. Numbers 1, 2, 4, and 5 are generally dishwasher-safe, but again, the coating is the real concern.

One tip: Take a photo of the manual page or the symbol on the tray. Save it on your phone so you don’t have to dig through drawers every time.

What Happens When You Put a Non-Dishwasher-Safe Tray in the Dishwasher?

The Real Risks: Warping, Coating Damage, and More

Let’s get real: What actually happens if you put a non-dishwasher-safe air fryer tray in the dishwasher? It’s not just about “maybe it’ll be fine.” The consequences can be serious.

1. Coating Peeling or Flaking
The most common issue. High heat and detergent chemicals break down the non-stick layer. Once it starts peeling, it’s a downward spiral. Flakes can end up in your food—and ingesting PTFE particles isn’t healthy. Plus, the tray becomes harder to clean over time as food sticks to the exposed metal.

2. Warping or Bending
Air fryer trays are often thin metal. Dishwasher heat can cause them to warp, especially if they’re stacked or hit by water jets. A warped tray won’t sit properly in the drawer, leading to uneven cooking or even safety issues (like the tray getting stuck).

3. Discoloration and Staining
Even if the coating survives, the tray might turn dull, gray, or develop white spots. This is usually from detergent residue or mineral deposits. It doesn’t affect function, but it looks gross and can make you question if it’s still safe to use.

4. Corrosion (Especially with Aluminum)
Some trays are aluminum-based. Dishwasher detergent can cause oxidation, leading to a chalky, flaky surface. This is irreversible and compromises the tray’s durability.

I learned this the hard way. After my first dishwasher disaster (the warped tray), I tried again with a different model—a Cosori. The tray had a ceramic coating. It survived the first cycle, but after the second, I noticed tiny cracks forming. By the third, the coating was flaking. I had to replace it. $25 down the drain—literally.

Real-World Examples from Users

I polled a few friends and online communities to see what happens in real life. The stories were eye-opening:

• Mark: “I put my Instant Vortex tray in the dishwasher. After two months, the non-stick coating was gone. Now I have to scrub every time.”
• Lena: “My Philips tray is still going strong after a year of weekly dishwasher use. But I only use the top rack and eco detergent.”
• James: “I didn’t know my tray wasn’t dishwasher-safe. Now it’s bent and won’t close properly. Had to buy a new one.”

The takeaway? Results vary. Some trays survive; others don’t. But why risk it?

How to Safely Clean Your Air Fryer Tray (Even Without a Dishwasher)

Step-by-Step Hand-Washing Guide

Okay, so maybe your tray can’t go in the dishwasher. That doesn’t mean cleaning has to be a chore. With the right method, it takes less than 5 minutes.

1. Soak Immediately
Don’t let food dry on. As soon as the tray cools (wait 10–15 minutes after cooking), fill the sink with warm, soapy water. Let the tray soak for 5–10 minutes. This loosens stuck-on bits.

2. Use a Soft Sponge or Cloth
Avoid steel wool, abrasive scrubbers, or anything that could scratch the coating. A silicone sponge or microfiber cloth works great. I love the Scrub Daddy sponge—it’s gentle but effective.

3. For Tough Stains: Baking Soda Paste
Mix baking soda with a little water to form a paste. Gently rub it on stubborn spots with a soft cloth. Baking soda is mildly abrasive but won’t damage the coating. Rinse thoroughly.

4. Vinegar for Grease
If you cooked something oily (like bacon or fries), a quick wipe with white vinegar helps cut through grease. Just don’t soak the tray in vinegar—it can damage the coating over time.

5. Dry Completely
Use a clean towel or let it air-dry. Moisture can cause rust or mold in the drawer. I keep a small towel by my air fryer just for this.

Pro tip: Keep a dedicated sponge or brush for your air fryer. Don’t use it on other dishes—this prevents cross-contamination and keeps the coating safe.

Time-Saving Hacks for Busy People

Short on time? Try these:

• Line the tray with parchment paper: Use air fryer-specific parchment liners. They catch drips and make cleanup a breeze. Just toss the liner after use.
• Use silicone liners: Reusable silicone mats fit perfectly in most trays. They’re non-stick, easy to wipe, and dishwasher-safe (yes, the silicone ones!).
• Pre-soak in the air fryer drawer: If you’re making multiple batches, leave the tray in the drawer and cover it with soapy water. It soaks while you cook the next batch.

One friend, Maria, swears by the silicone liner method. “I used to dread cleaning,” she says. “Now I just wipe the liner with a paper towel. Total game-changer.”

When It’s Safe to Use the Dishwasher (And How to Do It Right)

Top-Rack Only: The Golden Rule

If your manual says the tray is dishwasher-safe, you’re in luck! But don’t just toss it in. Follow these rules:

• Use the top rack: The bottom rack is hotter and closer to the heating element. The top rack is cooler and gentler.
• Secure it properly: Place the tray upside down or at an angle so water can drain. Don’t let it touch other dishes—water jets can cause banging and damage.
• Use mild detergent: Skip the heavy-duty, bleach-based detergents. Use a phosphate-free or eco-friendly option. I like Seventh Generation or Ecover.
• Choose a gentle cycle: Use “eco” or “light wash” instead of “heavy” or “sanitize.” Lower water temperature (around 120°F/49°C) is safer for coatings.
• Skip the drying cycle: Open the dishwasher after the rinse cycle and let the tray air-dry. High heat during drying can warp or crack coatings.

One user, Tom, follows this routine religiously. “I’ve had my Philips Airfryer for three years,” he says. “I run the tray through the dishwasher weekly. It still looks brand new.”

Data Table: Dishwasher Safety by Material

Material	Dishwasher-Safe?	Recommended Rack	Notes
Non-stick (PTFE/Teflon)	Only if manual says yes	Top	Use mild detergent; avoid high heat
Ceramic-coated	Rarely	Top (if allowed)	Hand-wash recommended; prone to cracking
Stainless steel (no coating)	Yes	Top or bottom	Can warp if thin; check for warping
Carbon steel (non-stick)	Usually no	—	Hand-wash only; season like cast iron
Silicone liners/mat	Yes	Top	Durable and reusable; safe at high temps

This table is a quick reference. Always double-check your manual first.

Final Thoughts: Protect Your Air Fryer Tray for Long-Term Use

So, can air fryer trays go in the dishwasher? The answer is: it depends. If your manual says yes—and you follow the rules—it can be safe. But if there’s any doubt, hand-washing is the safest bet. The few extra minutes you spend scrubbing are worth it to avoid replacing a $20–$50 tray.

Think of your air fryer tray like a cast-iron skillet. It’s an investment. Treat it with care, and it’ll last for years. Abuse it, and you’ll be shopping for a replacement sooner than you’d like.

Here’s my final advice: When in doubt, hand-wash. Use warm, soapy water, a soft sponge, and a little elbow grease. Or, invest in silicone liners—they’re cheap, easy to clean, and dishwasher-safe. Your future self (and your taste buds) will thank you.

And remember: Just because something can go in the dishwasher doesn’t mean it should. A little care today means more crispy fries, juicy chicken, and guilt-free snacks tomorrow. Now go enjoy your air fryer—and keep that tray in tip-top shape!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can air fryer trays go in the dishwasher safely?

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

How do I know if my air fryer tray is dishwasher-safe?

Look for a “dishwasher-safe” label on the tray or in the user manual. If unsure, hand-washing with mild soap is the safest option to preserve the tray’s coating.

Is it okay to put non-stick air fryer trays in the dishwasher?

While many non-stick trays are labeled dishwasher-safe, frequent dishwasher use can shorten their lifespan. Hand-washing helps maintain the non-stick surface longer.

Can air fryer accessories like racks or trays go in the dishwasher?

Yes, most air fryer accessories are dishwasher-safe, but verify this in the product manual. Metal components may rust if exposed to harsh detergents or high heat.

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

It may warp, discolor, or lose its non-stick coating, leading to food sticking or reduced performance. Always follow the manufacturer’s care guidelines.

Are all air fryer brands’ trays dishwasher-safe?

Not all air fryer trays are created equal—some brands use materials or coatings that aren’t dishwasher-friendly. Check your model’s manual to confirm before loading the dishwasher.