Clean your Cosori air fryer after every use, while it's still warm but unplugged

The basket and tray are the parts that need cleaning after each use. Unplug the unit, let it cool for five minutes, then slide out the basket and tray together. Soak them in hot soapy water for ten minutes, scrub with a soft sponge or cloth, and rinse. Both are dishwasher-safe on the top rack if you prefer. Dry them completely before putting them back in.

The heating element and interior walls collect grease and food particles over time. Once the basket and tray are out, wipe the inside of the unit with a damp cloth or paper towel while it's still slightly warm — grease comes off easier this way. Do not spray water directly into the heating element or electrical parts. If you see stubborn buildup, dampen a cloth with a little white vinegar and wipe the interior walls again.

The exterior casing is plastic and wipes clean with a damp cloth. Never submerge the main unit in water or put it in the dishwasher. If the outside gets greasy, a slightly damp cloth with a drop of dish soap works fine.

Key Takeaways

  • Remove and soak the basket and tray in hot soapy water for ten minutes after each use, then scrub and rinse thoroughly.
  • Wipe the interior walls and heating element with a damp cloth while the unit is still warm but unplugged, using vinegar for stubborn spots.
  • Both the basket and tray are dishwasher-safe on the top rack, but dry them completely before reinserting them.
  • Never submerge the main unit in water or spray water directly at the heating element or electrical connections.

Dealing with stubborn grease and burnt-on food

If food has stuck to the basket or tray and won't come off with regular washing, soak them longer — up to 30 minutes in hot soapy water. A soft-bristled brush or non-abrasive sponge works better than steel wool, which can scratch the non-stick coating. For burnt spots on the interior walls, make a paste of baking soda and water, explore it to the spot, let it sit for five minutes, then wipe it away with a damp cloth.

Do not use oven cleaner, bleach, or abrasive scrubbers on any part of the Cosori. These damage the non-stick surface and can leave chemical residue that contaminates food. Stick to dish soap, water, vinegar, and baking soda — all safe and effective.

Cleaning the heating element without damaging it

The heating element sits at the top of the unit and collects grease spray over months of use. You do not need to clean it after every use, but every four to six weeks, wipe it gently with a barely damp cloth while the unit is unplugged and cool. Do not scrub or use any tools on it. If grease has built up heavily, dampen the cloth with a tiny amount of white vinegar and wipe slowly.

Never spray water directly at the heating element or the electrical connections below it. Water in those areas can cause the unit to malfunction or become unsafe. If you spill water near the heating element by accident, unplug the unit when ready and let it dry for at least two hours before plugging it back in.

Preventing buildup so cleaning stays straightforward

Line the basket with parchment paper or an air fryer liner before cooking. This catches grease and food particles, so less sticks to the basket itself. You can buy Cosori-branded liners or use standard parchment paper cut to size — both work. Remove the liner after cooking, throw it away, and your basket stays much cleaner.

Pat food dry before putting it in the basket. Excess moisture creates more steam and splatter, which means more grease on the walls and heating element. A paper towel takes 10 seconds and saves you scrubbing time later.

What to do if your Cosori smells bad or has discoloration

A burnt smell after cleaning usually means grease is still stuck somewhere. Run the unit empty at 400°F for five minutes with the basket and tray out — this burns off light residue. Then unplug it, let it cool, and wipe the interior again with a damp cloth. If the smell persists, soak the basket and tray longer and check the heating element for buildup.

Dark stains or discoloration on the interior walls are normal and do not affect performance. They are oxidation or heat marks, not mold or damage. Wipe them with a damp cloth if they bother you, but they do not need to be removed. If you see actual mold — fuzzy growth or a musty smell — the unit has been stored wet. Unplug it, let it dry completely in sunlight for a full day, then wipe the interior with a cloth dampened in white vinegar.

Storing your Cosori between uses

Make sure the basket, tray, and interior are completely dry before you close the unit or put it away. Any moisture left inside can cause rust on the metal parts or mold growth. After cleaning, leave the basket and tray out for 10 minutes to air-dry, or dry them with a clean cloth. Store the unit in a cool, dry place — not in a damp cabinet or near a sink.

If you store the Cosori for more than a month, wipe the interior with a dry cloth before using it again. Dust can settle inside, and a quick wipe takes seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I put the basket and tray in the dishwasher?

Yes. Both are dishwasher-safe on the top rack. Hand-washing in hot soapy water works just as well and is faster for daily cleaning. Dry them completely before putting them back in the unit.

Is it safe to use vinegar inside the Cosori?

Yes. White vinegar is safe for the interior walls and heating element. Use it diluted on a damp cloth, not sprayed directly. Vinegar cuts through grease and leaves no chemical residue. Do not use it on the exterior plastic casing, as it can dull the finish over time.

What happens if water gets inside the heating element?

Unplug the unit when ready and let it dry for at least two hours before plugging it back in. Water near electrical parts can cause a short circuit or malfunction. If the unit does not work after drying, contact Cosori support — do not try to use it.

How often should I deep clean my air fryer?

Wipe the interior after every use. Deep clean the heating element and interior walls every four to six weeks, depending on how often you cook. If you use the fryer daily, clean the heating element monthly. If you use it a few times a week, every six weeks is fine.

Can I use steel wool or abrasive scrubbers on the basket?

No. Steel wool scratches the non-stick coating and shortens the basket's life. Use a soft sponge, soft-bristled brush, or cloth instead. For stubborn spots, soak longer or use a baking soda paste.