If you love adding fresh lemon zest to desserts, bright lime zest to salads, or fine shavings of garlic, cheese, or chocolate to your favorite dishes, but hate scrubbing tiny blades afterward, this list is for you. The Best Dishwasher Safe Zesters make food prep faster, safer, and a whole lot cleaner. With durable stainless steel blades and ergonomic handles, these tools deliver ultra-fine zest without clogging or sticking, and then go straight into the dishwasher when you’re done.
Modern zesters are designed for effortless glide, slip-resistant grip, and maximum precision, making them perfect for both home cooks and kitchen pros. Whether you’re zesting citrus, grating hard cheese, or shaving spices, the right zester saves time in the kitchen and eliminates messy cleanup.
In this guide, we’ve selected 7 of the Best Dishwasher-Safe Zesters based on sharpness, comfort, durability, and cleaning convenience. From microplane-style graters to multi-use zesters, these top picks will help you prep ingredients quickly and keep your kitchen routine simple.
Table of Contents
7 Best Dishwasher Safe Zesters
Microplane Premium Classic Series Zester
Best Overall
What We Like
- Ultra-sharp, photo-etched stainless steel blade made in the USA
- Creates fine, fluffy zest without tearing or bitter pith
- Excellent for citrus, ginger, garlic, nutmeg, chocolate, cheese, and more
- Ergonomic soft-touch handle offers a secure, comfortable grip
- Rust-resistant, long-lasting, and known for staying sharp for years
- Easy to clean—just pop it in the dishwasher
- Magnetic stainless steel lets you store it on a knife strip
- Comes with a protective cover for safe storage
What We Don’t Like
- The protective cover can feel a bit stiff to slide on
- Long, narrow shape may require more storage space than compact models
Overview
The Microplane Premium Classic Series Zester earns its spot as the Best Overall Dishwasher-Safe Zester thanks to its unmatched sharpness, precision, and long-term durability. Known as the standard in professional kitchens, its USA-made blade uses photo-etching technology to create ultra-micro teeth that glide effortlessly across foods. Instead of shredding or tearing ingredients, it produces delicate, even zest and finely grated results, perfect for citrus, hard cheese, ginger, garlic, spices, chocolate, and more.
The ergonomic soft-touch handle makes it easy to control, even during longer prep sessions. Meanwhile, its stainless steel blade resists rust, stays sharp for years, and cleans quickly, just tap to remove debris, rinse, or simply place it in the dishwasher. Its lightweight, balanced design keeps food from sticking to the surface, reducing waste and saving time.
Whether you’re a home cook or a seasoned chef, this zester delivers professional-grade results with minimal effort and maximum convenience.
Key Specifications
- Material: Stainless Steel (photo-etched, USA-made blade)
- Handle: Soft-touch ergonomic grip
- Dimensions: 1.3″ L × 1″ W × 12″ H
- Weight: 110 grams
- Dishwasher-Safe: Yes
- Best For: Citrus fruits, garlic, ginger, nutmeg, hard cheese, chocolate, spices
- Extras: Protective blade cover
- Country of Origin: Blade made in the USA; assembly in Mexico
Microplane Premium Classic Series Zester
OXO Good Grips Etched Zester and Grater
Best for Comfort
What We Like
- Soft, non-slip OXO Good Grips handle offers superior comfort and control
- Sharp etched stainless steel blade zests and grates with minimal effort
- Non-slip foot keeps the tool steady against a cutting board
- Works well for citrus, garlic, chocolate, ginger, and hard cheeses
- Lightweight and easy to handle, ideal for longer prep sessions
- Easy to clean—just pop it in the dishwasher
- Includes a protective blade cover for safe storage
- Bright color makes it easy to find in kitchen drawers
What We Don’t Like
- Plastic frames isn’t as long-lasting as full stainless steel microplanes
- A larger size may feel slightly bulky for small hands
- The blade cover sometimes requires a firmer push to secure
Overview
The OXO Good Grips Etched Zester and Grater earns the title Best for Comfort thanks to its signature soft, slip-resistant handle, which provides effortless control. Whether you’re zesting lemons or grating garlic, the ergonomic grip keeps your hand comfortable and stable, especially helpful for home cooks who struggle with slippery or stiff handles.
Its etched stainless steel blade delivers sharp, clean cuts without tearing the food, allowing you to produce fine zest and smooth, even shavings with very little pressure. The non-slip foot at the end adds extra stability when using it on a cutting board, making the whole process feel secure and easy.
Dishwasher-safe and lightweight, this zester is simple to maintain and a great everyday tool. The bright color and included blade cover make storage convenient and safe, especially in busy kitchen drawers.
If you want a zester that’s comfortable to hold, steady in use, and easy to clean, the OXO Good Grips model is one of the most user-friendly choices available.
Key Specifications
- Material: Stainless Steel blade, Plastic frame
- Handle: Soft, slip-resistant OXO Good Grips handle
- Dimensions: 14.9″ L × 4.6″ W × 1″ H
- Weight: 0.34 lbs
- Dishwasher-Safe: Yes
- Best For: Citrus, ginger, garlic, chocolate, hard cheeses
- Extras: Blade cover included
- Shape: Rectangular
- Color: Green
OXO Good Grips Etched Zester
Microplane All-Stainless Steel Lemon Zester
Best for Sharpness
What We Like
- Ultra-sharp, USA-made photo-etched blade delivers effortless zesting
- All-stainless steel body, no plastic parts, extremely durable
- Produces fine, fluffy zest without tearing or removing bitter pith
- Long, narrow design gives excellent control for smooth, continuous strokes
- Perfect for citrus, hard cheeses, garlic, ginger, nutmeg, and spices
- Lightweight and easy to rinse; dries very quickly
- Magnetic stainless steel can be hung on a knife strip for storage
- Dishwasher-friendly for quick cleanup
- Includes a protective cover for safe drawer storage
What We Don’t Like
- No handle, may take a little getting used to for beginners
- Sharpness requires extra care to avoid accidental nicks
- Not as comfortable for users who prefer cushioned hand grips
Overview
The Microplane All-Stainless Steel Lemon Zester earns the title Best for Sharpness thanks to its unmatched cutting precision and professional-grade performance. Crafted with a photo-etched stainless steel blade made in the USA, this zester slices cleanly through citrus peel, spices, garlic, and cheese with almost no pressure. The result is ultra-fine, feather-light zest that adds pure flavor to your dishes without bitterness.
Built from a single piece of stainless steel, it offers exceptional durability with zero seams, joints, or plastic parts. Its long, slim design gives you excellent reach. It allows smooth, continuous strokes, ideal for zesting over bowls or grating cheese directly onto pasta or salads.
Despite lacking a traditional handle, the lightweight body is surprisingly easy to control once you get used to the grip. Cleanup is simple too: a quick rinse removes most residue, and its fully stainless construction makes it safe to place in the dishwasher.
If sharpness and precision matter most in your kitchen tools, this Microplane stainless steel zester delivers the cleanest cuts and most consistent results of any model in its class.
Key Specifications
- Material: All stainless steel (blade and body)
- Blade Type: Photo-etched USA-made blade
- Dimensions: 12″ L × 1.33″ W × 0.33″ H
- Weight: 0.05 kg
- Dishwasher-Safe: Yes
- Best For: Citrus, Parmesan, ginger, garlic, nutmeg, spices
- Extras: Protective sleeve for safe storage
- Color: Silver
- Shape: Rectangular
Microplane All-Stainless Steel Zester
Zyliss SmoothGlide Dual Grater
Best Multi-Function Zester
What We Like
- Dual-sided design: one medium and one coarse grating surface
- Ultra-sharp, acid-etched stainless steel blades for smooth, efficient grating
- Versatile, great for citrus zest, cheese, ginger, chocolate, vegetables, and more
- Ergonomic soft-touch handle provides a strong grip and excellent control
- Non-slip base adds stability when grating over a bowl or cutting board
- Includes a fitted protective cover for safe and hygienic storage
- Dishwasher-safe and built for everyday use
- Backed by Zyliss’s long-standing reputation for durable, chef-trusted kitchen tools
What We Don’t Like
- Larger design takes more drawer space than slim microplane-style zesters
- Heavier than most handheld zesters
- Coarse and medium sides may feel too aggressive for delicate zesting tasks
Overview
The Zyliss SmoothGlide Dual Grater earns the title Best Multi-Function Zester for its impressive versatility and dual-blade design. Featuring both medium- and coarse-etched stainless steel grating surfaces, this tool handles everything from citrus zest and chocolate curls to Parmesan, ginger, nutmeg, and vegetables with a smooth consistency. It’s an excellent all-in-one grater for home cooks who want more than just fine zest.
The ergonomic soft-touch handle offers comfort and control. At the same time, the non-slip base gives added stability for safe, steady grating. Its acid-etched blades are crafted for long-lasting sharpness, ensuring that even harder ingredients glide across the surface without tearing or requiring excessive pressure.
Zyliss includes a fitted protective cover, making drawer storage safer and cleaner. Despite being larger and heavier than slim microplane-style zesters, it performs well. It is durable, making it a great option for multi-purpose kitchen prep. Fully dishwasher-safe, it’s a convenient and reliable tool backed by a brand known for quality since 1951.
Key Specifications
- Material: Stainless steel blades, durable body
- Handle: Ergonomic, soft-touch with non-slip base
- Dimensions: 1.18″ L × 3.74″ W × 11.22″ H
- Weight: 0.44 lbs
- Dishwasher-Safe: Yes
- Best For: Citrus zest, cheese, vegetables, chocolate, ginger, nutmeg
- Extras: Protective blade cover included
- Color: White
- Style: Dual Grater (Medium + Coarse)
Zyliss SmoothGlide Dual Grater
Deiss PRO Citrus Lemon Zester & Cheese Grater
Best for Value
What We Like
- Razor-sharp stainless steel blade delivers smooth zesting with minimal effort
- Comfortable, slip-resistant handle with soft non-slip dots for better grip
- Lightweight but strong, curved stainless steel sides add rigidity
- Extremely versatile: citrus, cheese, garlic, ginger, nutmeg, chocolate, vegetables
- Clog-free grating teeth make it easy to rinse clean
- Extended non-slip rubber foot for added control while grating
- Dishwasher-safe and easy to maintain
- Includes a protective blade cover for safe drawer storage
- Excellent price for the performance and durability offered
- Comes with a lifetime warranty from Deiss
What We Don’t Like
- A longer design may feel oversized for small drawers
- Coarse enough for cheese, but not ideal for ultra-fine microplane-style zest
- Handle color (bright yellow) may not suit every kitchen aesthetic
- Very sharp edges require careful handling while cleaning
Overview
The Deiss PRO Citrus Lemon Zester & Cheese Grater stands out as the Best for Value, delivering high-end performance at a budget-friendly price. Its razor-sharp etched stainless steel blade slices through lemons, limes, chocolate, parmesan, garlic, nutmeg, and even carrots with little pressure, making it a highly versatile everyday kitchen tool.
The ergonomic soft-grip handle offers excellent control, while the rubberized non-slip foot keeps the tool stable whether you’re zesting over a bowl or grating onto a cutting board. Its uniquely curved sides give the frame impressive rigidity, allowing you to apply more pressure without bending, a big advantage when working with harder foods like Parmesan or ginger.
Cleanup is quick thanks to the blade’s clog-resistant design, and the included protective cover keeps the teeth safe between uses. With its durable build, dishwasher-safe construction, and lifetime warranty, this zester delivers exceptional long-term value, making it a favorite for both beginners and experienced cooks who want a reliable, affordable grater that truly performs.
Key Specifications
- Material: Stainless steel blade, textured ergonomic handle
- Handle: Non-slip, soft-grip with raised comfort dots
- Dimensions: 1.77″ L × 1.02″ W × 14.76″ H
- Dishwasher-Safe: Yes
- Best For: Citrus, Parmesan, ginger, garlic, nutmeg, chocolate, vegetables
- Extras: Protective blade cover
- Color: Yellow
- Style: Modern, rectangular frame
- Warranty: Lifetime warranty
Deiss PRO Citrus Lemon Zester
Joseph Joseph Handi-Zest Multi-Function Zester
Best for Easy Cleaning
What We Like
- Built-in blade wiper/scraper removes zest instantly, no more tapping or brushing
- Razor-sharp etched stainless-steel blade delivers clean, efficient zesting
- Ergonomic handle makes it easy to grip and maneuver
- Protective sheath included for safe drawer storage
- Compact size fits easily in utensil drawers and small kitchens
- Ideal for citrus zest, garlic, ginger, and spices
- Dishwasher-safe for quick and hygienic cleanup
- Smart Joseph Joseph design, efficient, innovative, and space-saving
What We Don’t Like
- Smaller blade surface compared to long microplane-style zesters
- Not ideal for grating large amounts of cheese
- Blade wiper works great, but can loosen slightly over time
- Shorter length means less reach when zesting over bowls
Overview
If you want a zester that is effortless to clean, the Joseph Joseph Handi-Zest Multi-Function Zester is the clear winner. Designed with a built-in blade wiper, a rare and extremely useful feature, this tool scrapes off every bit of zest with a single swipe, eliminating the usual annoyance of zest getting trapped in the teeth. This makes prep faster, cleaner, and more efficient.
Its etched stainless steel blade slices through citrus peel smoothly without snagging or tearing into the bitter pith. The compact build and ergonomic handle offer great control, especially for quick zesting tasks. A protective sheath helps keep the blade safe when stored, while the small size makes it ideal for crowded kitchen drawers or minimalist cooking spaces.
While it doesn’t have the long body of a microplane for extended strokes, its ease of use and smart design make it a standout option for home cooks who want maximum convenience with minimal mess.
Key Specifications
- Material: Stainless steel blade, durable body
- Handle: Ergonomic, easy-grip
- Dimensions: Compact handheld size
- Weight: 0.17 lbs
- Dishwasher-Safe: Yes
- Best For: Citrus zest, ginger, garlic, spices
- Extras: Blade wiper/scraper, protective storage sheath
- Color: Green
- Shape: Rectangular
Handi-Zest Multi-Function Zester
Microplane Classic Zester Grater
Best Lightweight Zester
What We Like
- Ultra-sharp, USA-made photo-etched stainless steel blade
- Extremely lightweight and easy to handle during long zesting tasks
- Effortlessly produces fine, fluffy zest without hitting the bitter pith
- Great for citrus, ginger, garlic, nutmeg, chocolate, and hard cheeses
- Comfortable BPA-free handle provides a stable, secure grip
- Magnetic stainless steel, can be stored on a magnetic knife strip
- Durable, rust-resistant blade that stays sharp for years
- Simple to rinse clean and fully dishwasher-safe
- Protective cover included for safe storage
What We Don’t Like
- The handle is plastic and may feel less premium than silicone or reinforced grips
- A longer profile requires more drawer space
- Extremely sharp, requires careful storage and cleaning
- Not ideal for coarser grating tasks (strictly fine zesting)
Overview
Lightweight, razor-sharp, and incredibly reliable, the Microplane Classic Zester Grater earns the title Best Lightweight Zester for good reason. This iconic kitchen tool is beloved by professional chefs and home cooks alike thanks to its ultra-sharp USA-made blade and effortless performance. The photo-etched micro-teeth slice through citrus peel, garlic, ginger, chocolate, and parmesan with almost no pressure, creating a delicate zest that enhances any dish.
Its slim and featherlight design makes it especially comfortable for extended use, ideal for cooks who zest frequently or prefer a tool that won’t strain the wrist. The BPA-free handle provides a sturdy, non-slip grip, while the long, narrow frame gives excellent reach over bowls, cutting boards, or plates.
Designed for precision and ease, the Classic Zester is also very low-maintenance. A quick rinse removes most residue, or it can be placed directly into the dishwasher. With rust-resistant construction, long-lasting sharpness, and a protective cover for safe storage, this zester remains a dependable kitchen essential year after year.
Key Specifications
- Material: Stainless steel blade, BPA-free handle
- Blade Type: Photo-etched USA-made micro-teeth
- Dimensions: 12″ L × 1.31″ W × 1″ H
- Weight: 0.13 lbs (lightweight profile)
- Dishwasher-Safe: Yes
- Best For: Citrus zest, ginger, garlic, cheese, chocolate, nutmeg, spices
- Extras: Protective blade cover
- Color: Black
- Shape: Rectangular
Microplane Classic Zester Grater
Final Verdict
If you want the best overall performance, durability, and effortless cleanup, the Microplane Premium Classic Series Zester is the top choice. Its ultra-sharp USA-made blade, comfortable grip, and dishwasher-safe design make it ideal for anyone who wants professional-level zesting without the struggle or the scrubbing.
For cooks who prioritize comfort and control, the OXO Good Grips Etched Zester and Grater is an excellent pick. Its soft, slip-resistant handle and stable non-slip foot make zesting smoother, safer, and easier, especially for beginners and home cooks who value ergonomic design.
If sharpness and precision are your top priorities, the Microplane All-Stainless Steel Lemon Zester delivers unmatched cutting power with its fully stainless steel, photo-etched blade. It’s razor-sharp, lightweight, dishwasher-safe, and perfect for achieving fine, clean zest with almost no effort.
No matter which one you choose, these Best Zesters are guaranteed to make food prep smoother, zesting easier, and cleanup faster, bringing more flavor to your dishes with less effort every day.
Why You Can Trust Us
At WashDryDazzle, we know that the best zester isn’t just about sharp blades or perfect citrus ribbons; it’s also about saving time and making cleanup as effortless as possible. That’s why our kitchen tools review team spent hours researching, comparing, and analyzing the best dishwasher-safe zesters to help you find options that deliver both exceptional performance and hassle-free maintenance.
For this guide, we evaluated each zester based on several key factors: blade sharpness, ease of use, ergonomic comfort, versatility, build quality, durability, safety, and, most importantly, dishwasher compatibility. We also examined real customer feedback to understand how these zesters perform in everyday cooking, from zesting lemons and limes to grating parmesan, garlic, ginger, chocolate, and spices.
Our goal is to help you choose a zester that fits your cooking style while reducing effort, minimizing mess, and ensuring reliable performance. Every product on this list has been carefully selected for its ability to create clean, consistent zest, withstand frequent use, and clean up effortlessly, so you can prep ingredients faster, enhance your dishes with bright flavor, and enjoy a smoother kitchen experience from start to finish.
What to Look for in a Zester
Choosing the right zester can make a huge difference in how quickly, safely, and cleanly you prep ingredients. Whether you’re zesting citrus for desserts or grating cheese, garlic, or chocolate for savory dishes, here are the most important features to consider:
1. Blade Sharpness & Material
- Stainless steel blades, preferably photo-etched, for the best sharpness and long-lasting durability.
- Rust-resistant materials that stay sharp even after repeated dishwasher cycles.
2. Dishwasher-Safe Construction
- The blade and handle are fully dishwasher-safe
- No wooden parts or glued components that may loosen over time
- Protective covers (if included) are also dishwasher-friendly
3. Ergonomic Handle & Grip
- A non-slip, cushioned, or soft-grip handle
- A shape that fits comfortably in your hand
- Stability features like rubber footings that keep the tool steady
4. Versatility & Multi-Use Design
- Hard cheeses (Parmesan, Pecorino)
- Garlic, ginger, nutmeg
- Chocolate
- Vegetables like carrots
- If you want a multi-purpose kitchen tool, check the product’s use cases.
5. Size & Shape
- Long, slim microplane-style zesters are best for citrus and long strokes.
- Flat or paddle-style graters offer more control and surface area for cheese or chocolate.
- Consider your storage space; some designs fit into drawers more easily than others.
6. Safety Features
- Protective blade covers for safe storage
- Rounded frame edges
- Non-slip ends to prevent accidental slips during use
7. Ease of Cleaning
- Has minimal crevices or seams
- Includes a cleaning wiper or scraper to push zest off the blade
- Doesn’t clog easily thanks to well-designed micro-teeth
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the difference between a zester and a grater?
A zester is designed to remove the thin, aromatic outer layer of citrus fruits without taking the bitter white pith. A grater has larger holes and is better for shredding cheese, garlic, ginger, chocolate, and vegetables. Many modern tools combine both functions, but microplane-style zesters produce the finest citrus zest.
Are zesters dishwasher-safe?
Many stainless-steel zesters are completely dishwasher-safe, especially microplane-style tools with molded or plastic handles. However, not all graters are dishwasher-friendly. Always check the manufacturer’s label. Wooden handles and glued parts, or low-grade steel, may warp or dull in the dishwasher.
Can one zester work for both citrus and cheese?
Yes. Most high-quality microplane zesters can handle citrus zest, hard cheeses like Parmesan, garlic, chocolate, nutmeg, and ginger. If you want a truly multi-purpose tool, choose a zester with photo-etched blades and a sturdy frame.
How do I zest a lemon without hitting the bitter white pith?
Hold the fruit firmly and make light strokes with your zester, rotating the lemon as soon as the yellow skin is removed. A sharp microplane makes this easier because it removes only the flavorful outer layer, avoiding deep digging.
How do I clean a zester when food sticks to the blade?
Rinse the zester immediately after use to prevent zest or cheese from drying. If residue remains, use a small kitchen brush to clean the underside of the blade where food tends to cling. For dishwasher-safe models, place the zester on the top rack.
Are microplane zesters better than regular zesters?
Microplane-style zesters are often considered the best because their photo-etched blades stay sharper longer and produce fine, fluffy zest with little effort. They’re ideal for citrus, hard cheese, garlic, nutmeg, and chocolate.
Can I zest citrus without a zester?
Yes. If you don’t have a zester, you can use a microplane grater, a vegetable peeler, or a small knife. A microplane gives the closest result to a real zester. With a peeler or knife, simply remove thin strips of citrus peel and finely chop them. However, these methods require more effort and make it harder to avoid the bitter white pith, which is why a dedicated zester is recommended for the best results.
Style Meets Function: Accessories for the Modern Kitchen
Give your kitchen a boost with curated accessories that are as practical as they are stylish. From decorative panels that give your dishwasher a fresh new face to effective cleaners, specialty rinse aids, and durable dishwasher-safe tools, we’ve selected products that make everyday cleanup quicker and easier.
Explore our Complete Dishwasher Accessories Guide for everything you need to keep your appliance in top shape, streamline your chores, and upgrade your kitchen experience.
At WashDryDazzle, every recommendation is based on thorough research, hands-on evaluation, and feedback from real users, helping you choose accessories that deliver real results and long-term value.
We test, compare, and study each product to ensure it meets our high standards for performance and value. You’ll find everything from eco-friendly cleaning boosters to durable dishwasher-safe kitchen tools.
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