Is Aeropress Dishwasher Safe?

Is Aeropress dishwasher safe? It is (top rack only), but using a dishwasher isn’t the best method for getting it clean. Find out what it is and how to do it.

Is Aeropress dishwasher safe?
You can clean your Aeropress using a dishwasher

The Aeropress is one of the most innovative new ways to make coffee. What is more, it yields an unbelievably delicious brew that brings out the subtle notes of your beans and upgrades your morning in general.  

Aeropress boasts that it is easy to use and cleans up well. So, is the Aeropress dishwasher-safe? Yes, it is! 

That being said, it’s easier to clean an AeroPress without the dishwasher. Let’s look at the best methods for cleaning Aeropress and how the cleaning process works.

Don’t own one yet? Read our Aeropress review.

Is Aeropress Dishwasher Safe?

Aeropress’s website and many user reviews report that all parts of the Aeropress are dishwasher safe, but only on the top rack of the dishwasher. If you use the disposable paper filters, those are obviously not dishwasher safe, but most metal reusable versions are. Check the packaging that comes in to be sure.

So, why should you put your Aeropress on the top shelf? For most dishwashers, the heating element is on the bottom. While the entire appliance gets hot to disinfect and clean everything inside thoroughly, the bottom tends to get more exposure to very high temperatures. 

The high temperatures at the bottom of the dishwasher can warp or otherwise damage items, particularly plastic, which is why the makers of Aeropress recommend top shelf only. Your Aeropress may be okay after a wash on the bottom, but you don’t want to take unnecessary risks.

What Kind Of Dish Detergent Should You Use?

A woman putting a liquid detergent on the dishwasher
Use the mildest dish detergent

No type of dish detergent or cleaner is denied for use with the Aeropress. That being said, you generally want to use the mildest, least scented, and the least dyed product you can find.

The best coffee for Aeropress, after all, is all about subtle flavors, scents, and notes. It won’t be pleasant if your coffee tastes soapy or has an aftertaste of the fragrances built into your detergent. 

Soapy-tasting coffee is a relatively common complaint among Aeropress users who wash their apparatus and its parts in the dishwasher. It’s also one of the reasons that Aeropress’s makers don’t recommend dishwashing.

Next, we’ll tackle the best way to clean your Aeropress outside of the dishwasher.

What Is The Best Method For Cleaning Aeropress?

One of the great things about Aeropress is that it is self-cleaning when you use it. When the plunger moves through the chamber, its airtight design cleans the chamber itself.

You’ll see it when you use your Aeropress. The chamber will go from murky and dark to clear and clean as you move the plunger to make your delicious coffee.

Aeropress Filters

barista making coffee using aeropress - difference between inverted and normal aeropress
Use Aeropress filters once

You should throw Aeropress filters away after one use if it’s disposable. Aeropress still utilizes disposable filters because they do not taint the flavor of the coffee in any way.

Sometimes, the metal filters can do just that. However, that small trade-off in sustainability is worth it to the more eco-conscious Aeropress users.

If you’ve purchased a reusable metal filter, you can usually rinse it in the sink to clear away coffee remnants and let it air dry. You can also use a bit of mild dish soap and a sponge to clean it if necessary.

Deep Cleaning Aeropress 

You may notice that, over time, some sticky gunk or dried-on coffee builds up on your Aeropress. If that happens, we recommend soaking it in a mixture of:

  • One part vinegar
  • Five parts water 

Move it around in this mixture and use your hands to gently clean. Be sure to rinse well (you don’t want your coffee to taste like vinegar). Once rinsed, air dry the product.

Like this article? Find out how to clean a milk frother. We also explain if Hydroflasks are dishwasher safe.

Author

  • Aisling O'Connor

    Aisling is an Irish food and drinks writer and journalist fueled by coffee and herbal tea. She followed up her journalism degree with nutrition studies. Find Aisling on LinkedIn.