Due to everyday use, your small kitchen appliances, like your large ones, also need regular attention when it comes to cleaning. Those include blenders, coffee makers, microwaves, garbage disposals, waffle irons, toasters, etc.
This article provides suggestions on how to clean one of those small kitchen appliances – the toaster. After all, you do not want your hardworking toaster to gather up a chunk of burnt toast or collect smudge.
Do you remember the last time you cleaned your toaster? If the time for cleaning it has come, here’s what you should do to make it clean and sparkling again.
First, remember to unplug the toaster and let it cool down before the cleaning process.
Some toasters have a removable crumb tray at the base that can be easily popped out to shake off the loose crumbs. The crumb tray can also be washed with warm water and gentle liquid soap, but wait for it to completely dry before using.
However, if your toaster lacks a crumb tray, you can still use the old-fashioned method of turning the toaster upside down and gently shaking it over the sink, the trash can or a layer of newspaper. This way you will get rid of most of the accumulated crumbs inside the toaster.
Use a small soft brush or a toothbrush to brush off the crumbs from the hard to reach corners or the toaster slots. Do not use metal utensils when cleaning the interior.
The exterior and the knobs of the toaster should be wiped regularly with a soft, damp cloth and gentle soap. For stainless steel toasters apply a bit of vinegar to shine the surface up and remove fingerprints. To shine chrome toasters use some baking soda on a soft, damp cloth to prevent scratching. Baking soda is also good for removing sticky residue.
