Tips For A Clean Toaster
Do you have a clean toaster?
If you’re not cleaning your toaster on a regular basis, it’s time to start. If your toaster’s not clean, then it’s likely that gunk and dirt are building up inside and outside of it. Not only is this unsanitary, but it can also lead to a shorter lifespan for your toaster.
Follow these step-by-step instructions on how to clean the inside and outside of your toaster. It’s simple, easy, and only takes a few minutes.
Unplug it first:
The very first thing you’ll want to do is unplug your toaster. This is a safety precaution, as you don’t want to risk getting shocked while cleaning it. If you’ve just used it, it’s important that it has cooled down before you start cleaning it.
Also, while unplugged, move your toaster to the sink area to make it easier to clean. This way, you prevent crumbs from getting everywhere in your kitchen.
Another option is to position your toaster over the compost bin before you start cleaning it – this will make it easier to dispose of the crumbs.
Remove the crumb tray:
The first step in cleaning the inside of your toaster is to remove the crumb tray. As you know, this is located at the bottom of your toaster and can be easily pulled out. Be sure to remove any crumbs or debris that may be inside.
Most toasters have a crumb tray that can be easily removed. This is where all the gunk and dirt will accumulate, so it’s important to clean it regularly. Simply remove it and give it a good scrub with warm, soapy water. Rinse it off and put it to the side to dry.
Now, if you don’t have crumb trays, turn your toaster upside down over the sink and shake it to release any crumbs. You can also use a small brush, such as one used to clean bottles or a toothbrush, to help dislodge any stubborn crumbs.
Even with crumb trays, it’s good to follow this step of turning your toaster upside down, when cleaning, to get rid of any extra crumbs.
Clean the inside:
The next step is to clean the inside of your toaster. For this, you’ll need a small brush, such as a bottle brush or toothbrush.
Gently brush the inside of your toaster, being sure to get into all the nooks and crannies.
The bristles of the brush will help loosen any gunk or dirt that’s built up.
Rinse off the brush and bristles often, so that the cleaning process is more effective.
Make sure the inside of your toaster is completely dry before moving on to the next step.
Clean the outside:
The final step is to clean the outside of your toaster. This can be done with a simple damp cloth. Wipe down the entire surface, being sure to get into all the cracks and crevices.
You can use dish soap and water to clean the outside of your toaster, but be sure to rinse it off well and dry it completely before plugging it back in.
Be careful not to get the water inside of your toaster. If it’s still wet, you can use a dry cloth to finish the job.
Once the outside is clean, be sure to give it a final wipe with a dry cloth to prevent any moisture from building up.
If you have a stainless steel toaster, it’s important to avoid leaving water spots. To do this, buff the toaster with a dry cloth after cleaning.
How frequently to clean your toaster?
How frequently you clean your toaster hinges on how often you use it. If it’s used every day, you’ll want to clean it a minimum of once per week. If you only use it once a week or less, then you can clean it every other week.
Can you put your toaster in the dishwasher?
No, you should not put your toaster in the dishwasher. The intense heat and water can damage the electrical components, and it’s not a good idea to submerge any electronic devices in water.
Can toasters catch fire when not in use?
Yes, if there is a build-up of crumbs in the toaster, it can catch fire when not in use. This further reinforces the importance of keeping your toaster clean.
How often should you replace your toaster?
Most toasters should be replaced every 6 to 8 years. If your toaster is starting to show signs of wear and tear, or if it isn’t working as well as it used to, it’s probably time for a new one.
How do you know you need a new toaster?
Here are some signs to look for:
- The toaster is taking longer to toast bread than it used to
- It isn’t evenly toasting the bread
- Your toaster is starting to smoke
- There are visible signs of wear and tear, such as cracks or fraying cords
If you’re not sure whether your toaster needs to be replaced, consult the owner’s manual, or contact the manufacturer. They can tell you how often you should replace your toaster and whether there have been any recalls on your model.
When shopping for a new toaster, look for one that has adjustable heat settings so you can toast different types of bread perfectly. You should also consider getting a toaster with a bagel setting, as this will make it easier to toast bagels without burning them. If you have small children, look for a toaster with an automatic shut-off feature so they can’t accidentally start it.
Recap
Cleaning your toaster on a regular basis is not only simple and easy, but it also has some major benefits. By following these simple steps, you can clean your toaster quickly and easily.
When you keep your toaster clean, you can prolong its life, keep it working properly, and avoid any nasty surprises (like an electrical fire). So, what are you waiting for? Start cleaning your toaster today!