Cleaning your toaster may not be high on your priority list. However, it isn't as hard as you might think when it comes to how to clean a toaster. Learn how to clean the inside and outside of a toaster with ease.
How to Clean a Toaster
When it comes to how to clean a toaster, the answer is pretty simple. You just need to make a cleaning solution using dishwashing liquid and water. Then, you'll disassemble the toaster and give it a good washing. However, there are tips and tricks for getting into the crevices, too. Before you get too deep into your project, it's essential to grab your supplies.
What You Need
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Degreasing dishwashing liquid (blue Dawn recommended)
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Baking soda
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Sponge
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New paintbrush or pastry brush
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Washcloth or dishcloth
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Microfiber cloth
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Spatula
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Wood spoon
How to Clean the Inside of a Toaster
When it comes to general cleaning of your toaster's inside, you need to be careful and take it in steps.
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Unplug the toaster. Before you put anything but toast in a toaster, always make sure it's unplugged and cooled off.
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Flip the toaster over so the top is facing the ground and shake out the crumbs. This is always best over a garbage can or even outdoors.
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Fill the sink with water and add a few drops of dishwashing detergent.
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Gently pull the tray out of the bottom of the toaster.
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Shake off any remaining crumbs in the garbage and place it in the water to soak.
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Take a large flat, clean paintbrush or pastry brush, and brush out any crumbs or residue from the inside. It's best to start at the top and work down.
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Use a cloth to wash the crumb tray and leave it to dry.
If you don't have crumb tray, don't worry, just give the toaster a few extra shakes to get all the crumbs out.
How to Clean Toaster With Cheese in It
If you have something funky, like cheese, on the inside of your toaster, you can handle that too.
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Make sure the toaster is unplugged and cooled. You might even want to give it a bit of extra time to solidify melty things.
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Once the object is solid, use a spatula or wooden spoon to scrap or pop off the food carefully. (Prevention is typically the best medicine for these situations).
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After popping it off, use a soft, used toothbrush to remove any residue on the bars.
How to Clean the Outside of a Toaster
A little soap and water wipe on the outside will do the job for you for a mildly dirty toaster. However, if you've neglected your toaster for a bit too long and it's got jammy finger marks or brown stains, you are going to need a cleaner that is more potent.
How Do I Get Brown Stains off My Toaster?
It's typically a two-part cleaning method when it comes to brown stains or even sticky messes on the outside of your toaster. First use Dawn and then attack the stains with baking soda.
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Wet a cloth in soapy water and rinse it out.
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Wipe down the outside of the toaster.
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Let it sit for about 5 minutes.
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Use a damp cloth to wipe off the soap.
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For any stains that remain, dip a toothbrush in baking soda.
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Scrub the stains until gone.
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Wipe down with a clean damp cloth.
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Use the microfiber cloth to dry.
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Put the dry crumb tray back in.
When you're cleaning the outside of the toaster, don't forget the knobs. Theses might need a bit of extra love.
How to Clean Chrome Toaster
When it comes to cleaning a chrome or stainless steel toaster, white vinegar will be your best friend. It's perfect for removing stains and sticky messes on the outside.
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Wet a cloth with a 1:1 mix of vinegar and water.
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Wipe down the entire toaster, paying special attention to any stains.
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Allow it to sit for a few minutes, and the stains should wipe right off.
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Polish it with the microfiber cloth.
How Often Should You Clean a Toaster?
How often you clean your toaster is going to depend on use. If you have a large family that uses the toaster daily, then you'll want to clean it as least once a week, if not more. However, if you don't use it often, clean it every few weeks to a month to make sure it's in tip-top shape when you are ready for that delectable toast.
How to Clean a New Toaster Before Use
When you buy a new toaster, it's always a good idea to clean it before putting food you will put in your body into it. Cleaning a new toaster isn't nearly as intensive as a used one.
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Use a bit of warm water and dishwashing soap on a cloth.
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Wipe the whole toaster down.
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Check the inside for any remaining debris or loose particles, shake them out, or use your brush to remove them carefully.
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Shine it with a microfiber cloth and plug it in.
How to Clean a Toaster the Right Way
When it comes to cleaning your kitchen, your toaster is often a kitchen appliance you overlook. Make sure to keep it toasting bread and in great shape through a gentle cleaning. You can even add it to your regular cleaning routine. Next, get some additional tips on how to clean a toaster oven.
