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How to Clean a Toaster

Lowe's Editorial Team

By Lowe's Editorial Team
Published February 13, 2025

A toaster is an essential kitchen appliance, delivering crisp slices of bread with ease. However, regular use leads to crumbs and grease buildup, potentially affecting performance and safety. Let’s dive into how to clean a toaster thoroughly by following the steps outlined below.

Tools and Materials

Tools

Materials

Steps on How to Clean a Toaster

Let’s break down the essential steps of cleaning a toaster to ensure it remains spotless and well-maintained.

Unplug the Toaster

  • Before cleaning, unplug your toaster and allow it to cool completely if it has been recently used. This prevents any risk of electrical shock or burns.
  • Avoid cleaning a hot toaster as it can cause sudden temperature changes, potentially warping the metal parts or cracking the plastic housing.

Caution

Ensure your hands are completely dry before touching the plug or the toaster itself.

Remove Crumb Tray

  • Most toasters have a crumb tray located at the bottom that is specifically designed to catch crumbs, and it must be cleaned regularly.
  • Remove the tray and shake off any loose crumbs in the trash or sink.
  • Use a soft-bristled brush to remove any remaining crumbs from the crumb tray and around the heating elements. Pay close attention to the crevices and corners.

Wash the Crumb Tray

  • Wash the crumb tray using warm, soapy water.
  • Use a sponge or dishcloth to remove any stubborn bits.
  • For stubborn grime, let the crumb or toaster tray soak for at least 15-20 minutes in warm, soapy water. This will help loosen the grime and make it easier to scrub off.
  • Rinse well and allow it to dry completely before reinserting it into the toaster.

Caution

Always wear gloves when handling cleaning solutions.

Shake out the Loose Crumbs

  • Turn the toaster upside down over a sink or trash can and gently shake it to dislodge any crumbs or debris.
  •  Be careful not to apply too much force, as this could damage the internal components.

Clean the Interior

  • Use a small, soft brush to clean the interior slots and dislodge any remaining crumbs. Be gentle to avoid damaging the heating elements.
  • For stuck-on residue, create a paste using baking soda and water. Apply this paste to the stubborn spots using a small brush and gently scrub.
  • After scrubbing, use a damp microfiber cloth or sponge to wipe away the residue.
  • Avoid using water directly inside the toaster or completely wetting it to prevent damage to the electrical components.

Clean the Exterior

  • To clean the exterior, use a damp sponge or cloth with mild dish soap.
  • Mix 2-3 drops of dish soap with warm water and dampen a soft cloth.
  • Wipe the exterior of the toaster, paying close attention to greasy or fingerprint-covered areas.
  • Wipe down the outside surfaces, including the knobs and levers.
  • For stainless steel toasters, a vinegar and water solution can effectively remove streaks and fingerprints, giving a polished shine.
  • Use a dry microfiber cloth to buff the exterior and remove streaks.

Inspect and Reassemble the Toaster

  • Without touching the heating elements directly, inspect them for any residue.
  • If there’s burnt-on debris, carefully use the brush to remove it without applying excessive pressure.
  • Once all parts are clean and dry, reassemble your toaster.
  • Ensure the crumb tray is securely in place and that all components are free of moisture before plugging it back in.

How to Remove Melted Plastic from a Toaster

Removing melted plastic from a toaster requires patience and care to avoid damage. Here are a few steps and tips you can follow.

  • Always unplug the toaster before attempting to clean it to avoid electrical hazards. Let it cool completely.
  • Place an ice cube on the plastic for a few minutes. The cold will cause the plastic to harden, making it easier to scrape off.
  • Use a wooden spatula to gently scrape away as much melted plastic as possible from the heating elements and surfaces. Avoid using metal tools as they can cause scratches and damage your toaster.
  • Dampen a microfiber cloth with isopropyl alcohol and gently rub any remaining plastic residue. This can help dissolve the remaining plastic without damaging the toaster.
  • Once the plastic is removed, wipe down the toaster with a damp cloth to clean any residual debris.
  • Inspect the toaster to ensure no plastic is stuck in the heating elements. If the toaster still has some remaining melted plastic or smells of plastic after cleaning, it may need professional repair.

Caution

Consider using heat-resistant gloves if the toaster has been recently used, to avoid burns. If any fumes from the melted plastic are present, it’s essential to move the appliance to a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling them.

Steps on Maintaining a Clean Toaster

Cleaning a toaster is a vital part of maintenance, but there are additional ways to keep your appliance in top-notch condition:

  • Clean your toaster at least once a month to prevent excessive buildup.
  • Always read and follow the manufacturer's instructions. Avoid overloading the toaster or using it to toast items not intended for it.
  • When not in use, store your toaster in a clean, dry place. If possible, keep it covered to prevent dust and debris accumulation.
  • Regularly inspect the cord and plug for any signs of damage. If the toaster is malfunctioning or has a worn-out cord, it’s better to replace it.

Learning how to clean a toaster is a straightforward task that can have significant benefits for the longevity and performance of your appliance. By following these steps, you can keep your toaster in excellent condition.

FAQ’s

1. Can you wet a toaster to clean it?

Never submerge a toaster in water or wet it, as this can damage the electrical components and pose a safety risk.

2. Why does my toaster have a burning smell?

A burning smell usually indicates crumb buildup inside the toaster or food particles stuck on the heating elements.

3. How do you clean the outside of a stainless-steel toaster?

Use a damp microfiber cloth with mild dish soap, then wipe with a dry cloth or vinegar solution to remove streaks and fingerprints.

4. How to get all the crumbs out of a toaster?

Remove the crumb tray and shake the toaster upside down, letting the crumbs fall out. Next, use a soft brush or compressed air to clean out the remaining crumbs.

5. How often should a toaster be cleaned?

Empty the crumb tray weekly and deep clean the toaster once a month to ensure safe and efficient operation.

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