Most Cosori air fryer baskets and trays are dishwasher safe, but the heating element and main unit are not
The removable parts of your Cosori air fryer — the basket, crisper plate, and any included trays — can go in the dishwasher on the top rack. The main unit itself, the heating element, and the power cord must never go in water. Check your specific model's manual, because Cosori makes several lines and some older models have different rules.
The safest approach is to hand-wash everything in warm soapy water and dry it before reassembling. This takes five minutes and eliminates any doubt about whether a particular part will survive the dishwasher cycle.
Key Takeaways
- The basket and crisper plate from most Cosori models are top-rack dishwasher safe, but hand-washing extends their life.
- Never put the main unit, heating element, or power cord in water or the dishwasher under any circumstance.
- Your model's manual lists exactly which parts are dishwasher safe, and Cosori's website has downloadable PDFs if you no longer have the paper version.
- Food buildup on the basket can be soaked in warm water for 10 to 15 minutes before washing to loosen stuck-on residue.
How to find your specific model's dishwasher rules
Cosori air fryers come in several sizes and generations. The easiest way to know what your model allows is to look at the manual that came with it — usually a small booklet in the box. The care and cleaning section will list each removable part and whether it is dishwasher safe.
If you no longer have the manual, find your model number on the bottom or back of the unit. Go to Cosori's website, search for your model, and read the PDF manual. The model number is usually printed as "CP" followed by numbers — for example, CP137 or CP158. Cosori's support page lets you search by model and read the manual for free.
Which parts can go in the dishwasher
On most current Cosori models, the basket (the perforated metal cage where food sits) and the crisper plate (a flat or ridged insert that sits inside the basket) are dishwasher safe on the top rack. Some models also include a baking tray or pizza pan that is dishwasher safe. Always place these on the top rack, not the bottom, because the heat from the lower heating element can damage them over time.
The main unit — the plastic housing, control panel, and heating element — must never go in the dishwasher or be submerged in water. Water inside the unit can damage the electrical components and create a shock hazard. Wipe the outside of the unit with a damp cloth if needed, but do not spray water directly into any openings.
Hand-washing your Cosori air fryer parts
Hand-washing is the gentlest method and takes only a few minutes. Fill your sink with warm water and a small amount of dish soap. Remove the basket and any trays from the unit and let them soak for 5 to 10 minutes if food is stuck on. Use a soft sponge or cloth to scrub away residue, then rinse under running water and dry completely before putting them back.
For stubborn buildup, soak the parts for 15 minutes or use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub. Avoid steel wool or abrasive scrubbers, which can scratch the non-stick coating. Once dry, slide the basket back into the unit and make sure it sits flat and level before using the air fryer again.
Cleaning the main unit and heating element
The inside of the main unit — where the heating element sits — can collect grease and crumbs over time. Unplug the air fryer and let it cool completely. Use a dry cloth or soft brush to wipe away loose debris from the heating element and the interior walls. Do not use water or cleaning spray inside the unit.
If grease has built up on the heating element, you can dampen a cloth slightly and wipe the element gently, but do not soak it or spray water on it. Let any moisture dry completely before plugging the unit back in. If you are uncomfortable cleaning the heating element yourself, it is better to leave it alone than to risk water damage.
What happens if you put the wrong parts in the dishwasher
If you accidentally put the main unit or heating element in the dishwasher, stop the cycle when ready and remove it. Dry it thoroughly with a cloth and let it sit unplugged for at least 24 hours before using it again. Water inside the electrical components can cause a short circuit or create a safety hazard.
If the basket or crisper plate goes through the dishwasher and comes out damaged, the non-stick coating may be compromised. You can still use it, but food may stick more easily. Cosori sells replacement baskets and trays separately if you need to swap out a damaged part.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I put the glass lid in the dishwasher?
If your Cosori model has a glass lid, check your manual — most are dishwasher safe on the top rack. Hand-washing is safer for glass lids because the dishwasher's heat and pressure can sometimes cause thermal stress. Dry it by hand to avoid water spots.
What if food is stuck on the basket and won't come off?
Soak the basket in warm soapy water for 15 to 20 minutes, then use a soft sponge or cloth to gently scrub. If it still won't budge, soak it longer — do not use a steel wool pad or knife, which will scratch the coating. A soft-bristled brush works well for stubborn spots.
Is it safe to use the air fryer if water got inside the main unit?
No. Unplug it when ready and do not use it. Let it sit unplugged in a warm, dry place for at least 24 hours so any moisture can evaporate. If you are unsure whether water got inside, contact Cosori support before plugging it back in — using a wet unit is a shock hazard.
Do I need to clean the air fryer after every use?
You do not have to wash the basket after every single use, but wiping it out when it is cool prevents grease from hardening. A full wash once or twice a week is usually enough for regular use. If you cook fatty foods like bacon or sausage, wash it more often to prevent buildup.