Toasts are the yummiest breakfast in any household. Plus, they go really well with a nice, warm cuppa. However, this means your toaster works overtime and needs some attention.
Sure, crumbs may not seem like a big deal until you learn how their buildup affects your favourite small kitchen appliance.
Keep reading to learn what those effects are and how to clean your trusty toast-maker the right way.
Why Clean Your Toaster Regularly?
The first and obvious reason is that everything works better when it’s properly cleaned. The same goes for your toaster. It will heat the bread just right, which is very important if you have a
preference for how well-done you want (let’s be honest, we all do).
The second and maybe most important reason to clean it regularly is if you want to avoid a fire.
Yes, if toasters go a long time without a proper clean, this is what happens. Their internal components overheat, the buildup starts burning, and if you’re not careful, it can be really dangerous.If that happens to you, quickly unplug the machine from the outlet. Never use water to distinguish the fire. Instead, use a fire extinguisher or a wet towel. Alternatively, you can pour large amounts of baking soda to extinguish the flames.
As you can see, you have two very valid reasons for wanting your toaster clean and working properly.
Essential Cleaning Materials
The good news is that cleaning your toaster is really easy, and you probably already have everything you need at home. First, make sure your toaster is unplugged, just to be on the safe side. Once you do this, you’re ready to begin.
Start by grabbing a soft cloth to gently wipe the toaster without scratching it. Microfibre works great, but any other soft cloth will do. Use a bit of mild detergent to clean off any grime—it’s gentle and works like a charm.
Next, use a small brush to get crumbs out of those sneaky spots where they love to accumulate. Stay away from harsh chemicals or rough sponges, for they can damage your toaster. Keep a bin close by to chuck out crumbs and debris as you go.
That’s really all you need to keep your toaster in tip-top shape. You almost have no excuse for not doing it regularly, and you definitely don’t when you consider what could happen otherwise.
How to Remove the Crumb Tray
To keep your toaster working great, it’s a good idea to clean the crumb tray often. This tray catches all the little bits that fall off when you’re toasting, stopping them from building up and becoming a fire hazard.
First, locate the tray. Whether it slides out or has a lever, be gentle so you don’t break anything.
After you take it out, shake the crumbs into a bin. This easy step stops crumbs from piling up and keeps things safe.
If your toaster has a.. shall we say “complicated design”, have a look at the manual for any special tips, so you don’t accidentally break anything.
Clean the Crumb Tray
Next, fill up a sink or a large bowl with warm water, adding a squirt of dishwashing liquid. Give it a good swirl until it’s all bubbly and pop the tray in for a soak for a few minutes. This gives those really stubborn bits a chance to loosen up.
Grab a soft sponge or cloth, and gently give the tray a scrub. Rinse it thoroughly after running under water to wash away any soap.
Try to avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers while you do this. They might seem like a quick fix, but they can scratch or damage the tray, messing up its fit in the toaster.
Once it’s rinsed thoroughly, let the crumb tray air dry completely. Place it on a rack or towel, and make sure it’s bone dry before sliding it back into the toaster. This little step helps prevent rust or mould, keeping your toaster clean, so it can keep you fed and healthy.
Tackle The Toaster’s Interior
Turn your appliance upside down over the bin and give it a good shake. You’d be surprised at how many crumbs can sneak their way in there.
For those who refuse to budge, a small brush or even an old toothbrush is your best mate. They can reach all those tricky spots where crumbs like to hide. For the larger areas, a soft, dry cloth works wonders. Remember, whatever you do, keep water far away from the inside of your toaster.
If some crumbs are particularly hard to remove, a pastry brush can come to the rescue, gently coaxing them out without any drama. Regular cleaning like this keeps your toaster in tip-top shape and helps you dodge those nasty burnt smells wafting through the kitchen.
Conclusion
As you can see, knowing how to clean your toaster is really important–and not just for cosmetic reasons.
So, add this task to your monthly cleaning chores, and you will keep your appliance working well and longer.
Do this and you’ll enjoy your toast with a nice, warm cuppa, without having to worry about triggering the smoke alarm or any fire hazards in the process.
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