Air fryers have become an extremely popular kitchen appliance in recent years. Their ability to make crispy fried foods like french fries and chicken wings using little to no oil is very appealing. But while air fryers are convenient, there are some parts of them that require special care when cleaning. Specifically, you should avoid putting the air fryer basket in the dishwasher.
Why the Air Fryer Basket Should Not Go in the Dishwasher
There are a few key reasons why it’s best to hand wash the air fryer basket rather than toss it in the dishwasher:
Heat Exposure Can Warp or Melt the Basket
The high heat of the dishwasher can potentially warp or melt an air fryer basket. Most air fryer baskets are made from plastic or metal with a non-stick coating. Prolonged exposure to hot water and high heat cycles can warp plastic baskets or damage the non-stick surface on metal baskets. The results would be a misshapen basket or scratched coating that makes food stick.
Moisture Can Damage the Basket’s Coating
Dishwasher detergent combined with hot, steamy moisture is not ideal for the coated surface of an air fryer basket. Over time, going through dishwasher cycles can wear away at the non-stick surface, reducing its effectiveness. You want the coating intact to prevent food from sticking to the basket.
Vibrations Can Loosen the Basket’s Non-Stick Coating
The shaking and vibrations during the dishwasher’s wash and rinse cycles could potentially loosen the non-stick coating on an air fryer basket. Chipping or peeling of the coating will lead to the basket becoming less nonstick.
Chemicals Can Be Harsh on the Basket’s Materials
The detergents and rinse agents used in dishwashers can be harsh. Some ingredients may be too strong for the plastic or coated materials that make up air fryer baskets. Over time, the chemicals can break down the basket’s surface or lead to other damage.
The Dishwasher May Not Fully Clean the Basket
Due to the air fryer basket’s design with all its nooks and crannies, the dishwasher may not fully clean it. Food debris could get trapped in hard to reach spots. It’s better to hand wash the basket to scrub every spot and ensure no greasy buildup.
How to Clean an Air Fryer Basket by Hand
Cleaning an air fryer basket by hand is simple and takes just a few minutes. Here are the steps:
1. Remove Large Debris
After cooking, remove any large leftover food pieces from the basket with a paper towel. This prevents loose debris from getting into the sink.
2. Wash With Hot Water and Mild Detergent
Place the basket in the sink and use a soft sponge or dish cloth to wash it with hot water and a couple drops of mild detergent. Avoid abrasive scouring pads.
3. Scrub All Surfaces Thoroughly
Carefully scrub all inner and outer surfaces of the basket, making sure to get into crevices. Focus on gently removing any grease or stuck-on foods.
4. Use a Soft Brush for Stubborn Residue
For stubborn grease or food residue, use a soft brush like a toothbrush to gently loosen and remove it from the basket’s nooks. Avoid hard scrubbing.
5. Rinse Well With Clean Water
Once washing is complete, rinse the entire air fryer basket thoroughly with clean hot water to remove all soap residue.
6. Dry Immediately and Completely
Immediately dry the washed basket with a clean towel. Make sure no moisture is left, especially on any non-stick surfaces. Completely drying prevents water spots.
7. Use Baking Soda If Needed
For tough odors or stains, create a baking soda paste with water and gently rub it on the basket. Rinse thoroughly after letting it sit for a few minutes.
Following this simple hand washing method regularly keeps an air fryer basket clean and in great condition for crispy air fried cooking.
Signs Your Air Fryer Basket Needs Replacement
With regular gentle cleaning, an air fryer basket can last a long time. But there are a few signs that indicate when it may need to be replaced:
- Warping, bending, or other deformities in the basket’s shape
- The non-stick coating is visibly peeling or flaking off
- Sections of the basket have become rusty
- Plastic parts have cracks, melting, or burn marks
- Grease and residue no longer come clean with washing
- Food frequently sticks to or burns onto the basket
If your air fryer basket shows any of these signs, it’s time to replace it with a new one. Continuing to use a damaged basket can negatively impact air frying results.
Top Tips for Caring for Your Air Fryer Basket
Here are some useful tips to help keep your air fryer basket in the best shape possible:
- Clean after every use – Don’t let food, grease, or residue build up. Prompt cleaning makes the job much easier.
- Avoid metal utensils – Use soft silicone or wood utensils to avoid scratching the basket’s coating.
- Remove stuck-on food – For food stuck to the basket, soak in warm soapy water to loosen instead of scraping.
- Dry thoroughly – Always dry the basket fully before storing to prevent moisture damage.
- Use basket liner – Consider using parchment paper or a silicone liner to minimize food sticking and residue.
- Store carefully – Place the basket gently inside the air fryer cabinet rather than cramming it in to avoid damage.
- Check for damage – Periodically inspect the basket for any scratches, cracks, peeling, or hot spots.
- Replace when needed – Don’t wait too long to replace a worn out basket. A new one helps food cook evenly.
Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Baskets and Dishwashers
Should you ever put an air fryer basket in the dishwasher?
No, it’s never recommended to put an air fryer’s basket in the dishwasher. The risks of damage from heat, moisture, vibrations, and chemicals are too high. It’s much better to always hand wash air fryer baskets.
What’s the best way to clean an air fryer basket?
The best cleaning method is hand washing with hot water, mild detergent, and a soft sponge or dish cloth. Gently scrub the basket and rinse it thoroughly. Immediately dry with a towel to prevent moisture damage.
How can you remove stuck-on grease or food from the basket?
To loosen stuck-on residue, soak the air fryer basket in warm soapy water for 20-30 minutes. Then use a soft brush or sponge with a gentle scrubbing motion. Avoid aggressive scraping or harsh cleaners.
Should you put a silicone liner or parchment paper in the air fryer basket?
Yes, liners and parchment paper can help minimize cleanup of the basket. They catch grease drips and food debris. Just be sure to replace the liner or paper as needed to prevent food from sticking.
What causes an air fryer basket to become damaged?
Common causes of damage include overheating, harsh scrubbing, metal utensils scratching the coating, moisture, and prolonged food residue buildup. Regular gentle cleaning helps prevent damage.
When is it time to replace an air fryer basket?
Look for warping, bending, flaking coating, cracks, rust, and inability to get the basket fully clean as signs it’s time for a replacement. A damaged basket affects cooking performance.
Key Takeaways on Caring for Your Air Fryer Basket
- Never put an air fryer’s basket in the dishwasher, as heat, moisture, vibrations, and chemicals can all cause damage.
- Gently hand wash baskets after each use with warm water, mild detergent, and a soft sponge or brush.
- Immediately and thoroughly dry the basket when done washing to prevent moisture damage.
- Inspect baskets periodically for damage like warping, peeling coating, cracks, or hot spots.
- Replace a basket showing signs of significant wear for optimal cooking results.
- With careful washing and storage, an undamaged air fryer basket can last for years.
So remember, be gentle with your air fryer basket and keep it out of the dishwasher. With the proper care, your basket will keep turning out perfectly crispy fried favorites for a long time!