How To Clean Your Toaster

When it comes cleaning your kitchen, there’s bound to be something that you forget, whether you’re a cleaning noob or an expert, and whether that negligence is intentional or not. For one particular appliance, it’s most likely a combination of forgetting to clean it in the first place and not knowing how exactly to clean it.

I’m talking about your toaster — and you should know, a dirty, crumb-filled toaster isn’t just an eyesore.

As Vera Peterson, president of Neighborly brand Molly Maid explains, improperly cleaned toasters “can be hazardous and cause fires.” What’s more, leaving all those crumbs in the toaster can also be pretty unhealthy, as Ron Shimek, president of Neighborly company Mr. Appliance points out. “It’s extremely susceptible to storing bacteria and germs,” Shimek says.

A slightly unkempt kitchen is one thing, but a dangerous fire hazard or an opportunity for bacteria to grow is a whole other ball game. Luckily, there’s good news: “Cleaning your toaster is a quick and easy process,” Shimek adds. And if you’re opted for the toaster’s close cousin, the toaster oven, there’s hope for you still. It can be as simple as unplugging, shaking your toaster out, and cleaning the crumb tray.

Here’s how to get it done:

• Trash can
• Warm soapy water
• Small brush or spatula
• Hand vacuum
• Dish cloths
• Antibacterial wipes (optional)

1. Unplug the toaster and let it cool down. This might seem like common sense, but it’s worth repeating: Do not clean your toaster while it’s plugged in. Once you’ve unplugged the appliance, you’re also going to want to make sure the toaster is completely cool. 
2. Remove the crumb tray and soak it. Next, remove the toaster’s crumb tray (usually located on the bottom), preferably over a sink or trash can to avoid making a big mess. If you find there are stuck-on crumbs and other debris, soak it in warm soapy water while you complete the next steps.
3. Turn your toaster over and shake it. If just turning your toaster over, shaking, and trying to avoid making a huge mess is your first instinct when it comes to cleaning your toaster, you’re not wrong. Some experts suggest covering the top of the toaster with parchment paper or a dish cloth in order to catch the crumbs, while other suggest add some large-crystal salt to help force crumbs out. Regardless: Give it a good shake over the trash can or sink.
4. Use a spatula or small brush to get any remaining crumbs. Use a small brush or spatula to get into the hard-to-reach corners. Then give the toaster another shake.
5. Vacuum up those crumbs. Even though you’re being careful to contain the crumbs, it’s a good idea to have a hand vacuum at the ready to clean up your counter and floors ASAP. You’ll thank us later when you’re not tracking crumbs all around your kitchen.
6. Wipe down the outside of the toaster. Make sure to wipe down the outside of the toaster to make the entire appliance sparkle. You can use a soapy water mixture and a cloth, or you could even try an antibacterial wipe to make sure you’re getting any extra germs off of the high-touch surface.
7. Dry everything off and replace the crumb tray. When you’re done, use a dry dish cloth to dry off the appliance and the tray (and replace it) before you plug it in again.