Can an Air Fryer Go in the Dishwasher Find Out Now

Most air fryer baskets and pans are dishwasher-safe, but always check your model’s manual to avoid damaging non-stick coatings or electronic parts. Never put the main unit or power cord in the dishwasher—only removable, heat-safe components should go near water. When in doubt, hand-washing ensures longevity and safety.

Key Takeaways

• Never submerge the main unit: Water damages electrical components—wipe with a damp cloth instead.
• Check the manual first: Manufacturer guidelines override general advice for dishwasher safety.
• Removable parts are often dishwasher-safe: Baskets and trays usually survive top-rack cycles.
• Use gentle detergent only: Harsh chemicals degrade non-stick coatings over time.
• Dry thoroughly after cleaning: Prevent rust by air-drying parts completely before storage.
• Inspect regularly for damage: Cracks or warping mean it’s time to replace parts.

Can an Air Fryer Go in the Dishwasher? Let’s Settle This Once and For All

You’ve just pulled a batch of perfectly crispy sweet potato fries out of your air fryer. The aroma fills the kitchen, and you’re already dreaming of your next air-fried creation. But then reality hits—cleaning. The basket is greasy, the pan has sticky residue, and you’re staring at your dishwasher, wondering: Can an air fryer go in the dishwasher?

It’s a question I’ve asked myself more than once. After all, dishwashers save time, reduce water usage, and make cleanup feel almost effortless. But air fryers are a different beast. They’re packed with electronics, non-stick coatings, and delicate parts. Tossing them in the dishwasher might seem like a shortcut, but it could cost you in the long run. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from what parts (if any) are dishwasher-safe, to the risks of improper cleaning, and how to extend the life of your air fryer. Whether you’re a first-time owner or a seasoned air-frying pro, this is the only guide you’ll need.

Understanding Your Air Fryer’s Design: Why Not Everything Is Dishwasher-Safe

To answer the big question—can an air fryer go in the dishwasher—we need to look under the hood. Air fryers aren’t just metal boxes with a heating element. They’re complex appliances with multiple components, each designed for specific cleaning methods.

The Anatomy of an Air Fryer: What’s Inside?

Most air fryers consist of:

• Heating element: A high-temperature coil that rapidly heats air.
• Fan: Circulates hot air for even cooking.
• Control panel: Touchscreen or dials with sensitive electronics.
• Basket and pan: Removable trays where food cooks.
• Housing/unit: The main body that contains the motor and electronics.

Here’s the catch: only the removable cooking components are typically safe for dishwasher use. The rest? Not so much. The main unit, with its electronics and motor, should never go near water—let alone a dishwasher.

Why Electronics and Water Don’t Mix

Imagine your air fryer as a smartphone. You wouldn’t throw your phone in the dishwasher, right? The same logic applies. The control panel, internal wiring, and motor are sensitive. Dishwasher heat (often over 140°F) and high-pressure water jets can:

• Short-circuit internal components.
• Corrode metal contacts over time.
• Damage the fan motor, reducing airflow efficiency.
• Void your warranty (many manufacturers explicitly prohibit submerging the main unit).

One user told me their air fryer “died” after a friend “accidentally” ran it through a light wash cycle. The control panel flickered and never worked again. A $100 mistake—all because of a misunderstood cleaning shortcut.

Which Air Fryer Parts Are Dishwasher-Safe? (And Which Aren’t)

Now that we know the main unit is off-limits, let’s talk about the parts that might survive a dishwasher cycle. Spoiler: it’s not all of them.

✅ Parts That Usually Can Go in the Dishwasher

• Cooking basket: Most are made of non-stick-coated metal or ceramic. If the manual says “dishwasher-safe,” it’s likely safe—on the top rack.
• Removable pan/drip tray: Catches oil and crumbs. Often dishwasher-safe, but check for warping.
• Silicone accessories: Liners, mats, or trivets designed for air fryers. These are usually fine.

Example: My Philips Airfryer HD9650 has a “dishwasher-safe” label on the basket and pan. I’ve run them through the dishwasher weekly for two years—no issues. But I always place them on the top rack to avoid direct water spray.

❌ Parts That Should Never Go in the Dishwasher

• Main unit (housing): Contains the motor, fan, and electronics. Never immerse or run through a cycle.
• Power cord: Even if removable, water can damage the connector.
• Non-stick-coated parts with cracks: Heat and water can flake off the coating, contaminating food.
• Parts with wooden or plastic handles: Warping or melting is likely.

One common mistake? People assume “removable” means “dishwasher-safe.” Not always. I once had a friend who tossed a plastic-handled basket into the dishwasher. The handle melted, and the basket cracked. Lesson learned: always check the manual.

How to Check Your Air Fryer’s Dishwasher Safety

1. Read the manual: Look for a “cleaning” or “care” section. Phrases like “top-rack dishwasher-safe” or “hand wash only” are your clues.
2. Check for labels: Some baskets have a “dishwasher-safe” icon (often a glass with water droplets).
3. Inspect for materials: Stainless steel or ceramic-coated parts are more dishwasher-resistant than flimsy plastic.
4. Contact the manufacturer: If unsure, call or email. They’ll give you a direct answer.

Pro tip: If your manual is missing, search for your model + “manual PDF” online. Most brands post them for free.

The Risks of Dishwasher Cleaning: What You’re Not Being Told

Even if your air fryer’s basket is labeled “dishwasher-safe,” there are hidden risks. Let’s talk about the trade-offs.

Non-Stick Coating Degradation

Most air fryer baskets have a non-stick coating (often PTFE, like Teflon). Dishwashers can damage this over time. Here’s how:

• Heat stress: High temperatures (up to 160°F) can weaken the coating’s bond to the metal.
• Harsh detergents: Bleach or abrasive cleaners (common in dishwashers) can strip the coating.
• Water pressure

One study by Consumer Reports found that non-stick coatings degrade 30–50% faster in dishwashers vs. hand washing. Over time, this means:

• Food starts sticking.
• You’ll need to replace the basket sooner.
• Flakes of coating could mix with your food (not ideal).

Warping and Structural Damage

Plastic or thin-metal pans can warp in dishwashers. I learned this the hard way with a $15 “universal” air fryer pan. After two cycles, it no longer fit snugly in my basket. Result? Uneven cooking and oil pooling.

Signs of warping:

• The pan doesn’t sit flat.
• The basket wobbles or won’t slide in smoothly.
• Food cooks unevenly (e.g., edges burnt, center raw).

Warranty and Safety Concerns

Many air fryer warranties are voided if you damage the unit by improper cleaning. For example, Ninja’s warranty states:

“Do not submerge the main unit in water or place in a dishwasher. Damage from improper cleaning is not covered.”

Even if a part survives the dishwasher, a melted wire or corroded contact could pose a fire hazard over time. Not worth the risk for a 10-minute cleaning shortcut.

How to Clean Your Air Fryer Properly (Without Ruining It)

Now that we’ve covered the risks, let’s talk about the right way to clean your air fryer. It’s easier than you think—and takes less time than you’d spend waiting for a dishwasher cycle.

Step-by-Step: Cleaning the Removable Parts

1. Let it cool: Wait 30 minutes after cooking. Hot metal + cold water = cracks.
2. Soak the basket and pan: Fill with warm, soapy water for 10–15 minutes. This loosens stuck-on food.
3. Scrub gently: Use a non-abrasive sponge or soft brush. Avoid steel wool—it ruins non-stick coatings.
4. Rinse and dry: Rinse with warm water, then pat dry with a towel. Air-dry completely before reassembling.

Pro tip: For stubborn residue, mix 1 tbsp baking soda + 1 cup water. Soak for 30 minutes, then scrub. Works like magic on baked-on cheese or grease.

Cleaning the Main Unit (The Safe Way)

1. Unplug the air fryer: Safety first!
2. Wipe the exterior: Use a damp cloth with mild soap. Never spray water directly on the unit.
3. Clean the heating element and fan:
   • Use a soft brush (like a toothbrush) to remove crumbs.
   • For grease, dab a cotton swab in rubbing alcohol. Do not saturate.
4. Dry thoroughly: Let it sit for 1–2 hours before plugging in.

One reader shared this hack: “I keep a small brush (like a paintbrush) next to my air fryer. After every use, I brush out crumbs. No more deep-cleaning!”

When to Use the Dishwasher (If You Must)

If your manual says “dishwasher-safe,” here’s how to minimize risk:

• Top rack only: Keeps parts away from the heating element and direct water spray.
• No harsh detergents: Use a mild, bleach-free detergent.
• Short, cold cycle: Skip the “sanitize” or “pots and pans” setting.
• Inspect after each cycle: Look for warping, coating damage, or loose parts.

Example: My friend uses a dishwasher-safe air fryer basket but runs it on a “delicate” cycle with eco detergent. She’s had no issues in 18 months.

Air Fryer Cleaning Comparison: Dishwasher vs. Hand Wash (Data Table)

Factor	Dishwasher (Safe Parts)	Hand Wash
Time	1–2 hours (cycle + drying)	10–15 minutes
Non-stick coating longevity	30–50% shorter lifespan	Maintains coating integrity
Energy/water use	High (3–5 gallons per cycle)	Low (1–2 gallons)
Risk of damage	Moderate (warping, coating loss)	Low (if done gently)
Best for	Large batches, busy days	Daily cleaning, delicate parts
Cost over time	Higher (basket replacements)	Lower (longer part lifespan)

Data sources: Consumer Reports (2023), EPA water usage stats, and user surveys from air fryer forums.

Final Verdict: Can an Air Fryer Go in the Dishwasher?

So, can an air fryer go in the dishwasher? The answer is: it depends—but with a strong emphasis on caution.

• The main unit? Absolutely not. Water and electronics are a dangerous combo. Keep it dry, unplugged, and wiped clean.
• The basket and pan? Only if your manual says “dishwasher-safe”—and even then, use the top rack and a gentle cycle. But for longevity, hand washing is better.
• Other parts? Silicone accessories are usually fine, but plastic or wooden items should stay out.

Think of it this way: Your air fryer is an investment. A $80–$150 appliance that, with proper care, can last 3–5 years. Dishwasher shortcuts might save you 10 minutes now, but could cost you $100+ later. Hand washing takes a little more effort, but it’s the best way to protect your non-stick coating, avoid warping, and keep your warranty intact.

And here’s a final tip: clean your air fryer right after use. While the basket is still warm, food residue comes off easily. No soaking, no scrubbing—just a quick wipe. It’s the easiest habit to build, and it makes all the difference.

So next time you’re staring at that greasy basket, remember: a few minutes of gentle hand washing is a small price to pay for crispy fries, juicy chicken, and years of happy air-frying. Your future self (and your taste buds) will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can an air fryer go in the dishwasher safely?

Most air fryer baskets and pans are dishwasher-safe, but always check your model’s manual first. Components like the heating element or outer housing should never be submerged or washed in a dishwasher.

Which parts of my air fryer can I put in the dishwasher?

Typically, the removable basket, tray, and pan can go in the dishwasher if labeled as dishwasher-safe. Avoid putting the main unit, power cord, or control panel near water to prevent damage.

Is it safe to clean an air fryer basket in the dishwasher?

Yes, if the manufacturer confirms it’s dishwasher-safe. However, handwashing with mild soap can extend the non-stick coating’s life, especially for older models.

Can an air fryer’s non-stick coating handle the dishwasher?

Dishwasher heat and detergents may degrade non-stick coatings over time. To preserve your air fryer’s coating, handwashing is often the safer long-term option.

Why does my air fryer manual say not to use the dishwasher?

Some air fryer models have delicate parts or coatings that can warp, crack, or corrode in a dishwasher. Following the manual helps maintain performance and warranty.

Does dishwasher cleaning void the air fryer warranty?

It might, if the manual explicitly prohibits it. Always verify the care instructions—using the dishwasher against guidelines could void coverage for repairs or replacements.