I think we can all agree, the toaster is one of the best inventions ever. The first toasters came on the market as early as 1919. This invention is still used in millions of households today. Only, often one question remains unanswered. How should you clean a toaster? We have briefly listed the main points of attention for you.
First unplug it
First of all, when cleaning a toaster, it is important to unplug it. This may sound redundant to some but bear in mind that in the UK there is a voltage of 220 volts. That much electrical current can still give you a big bang. Is the plug out? Good, then you can start now.
Toaster cleaning of different models
I know, I hear you thinking, there are so many different models of toasters. You have so many different brands, versions and models. You even have toasters with different functions. True, but with most toasters (actually all of them) you can clean them the same way. So when you buy a toaster you hardly have to worry about differences in cleaning.
Basic toasters
A basic toaster is pretty easy to clean without too much effort. Put the toaster upside down in the sink. Do you have an older model, either without a pull-out crumb tray? Then take the appliance and carefully shake it out upside down over the sink.
Are there still bits of bread stuck to the toaster’s bread clamp? Then you can try carefully brushing these off. You can just do this with a small brush, and if you don’t have one handy that you can do this with a dry toothbrush.
Make sure it is completely crumb-free
It is important first to make sure that all slots and holes are crumb-free. Once most of the crumbs are out of the toaster then you can use a damp cloth to wipe the outside. Just be careful not to wipe the inside, as this can cause rust. Nowadays, you can also buy a toaster made of stainless steel for very little, which can withstand this a lot better.
We all know that electricity and water do not mix well. Therefore, dry the toaster completely with a dry cloth to get the toaster clean. Now the toaster is clean and you can get back to toasting sandwiches for your next meal!
Toasted bread from modern toasters
Do you have a more modern and elaborate toaster? Does it come with one of those handy removable crumb trays? Then cleaning a toaster is even a little easier.
To start with, simply check to see if there are any remnants of sandwiches stuck to it then simply remove the crumb tray and then you can empty it upside down into the bin or sink and then clean it under the tap with a dish brush. The outside of the toaster is simply wiped with a damp cloth. Just make sure it is not too wet. Also wipe the rest of the toaster such as the slots with a damp cloth.
Dry the crumb tray, and that’s it
Finally, dry the outside and the crumb tray with a dry cloth and then you can enjoy a nice toasted sandwich again. Did you think it took a bit long? Usually, it’s not too bad. But if it does disappoint, remember that the first time cleaning a toaster always takes the longest. Besides, emptying the crumb tray, for instance, is definitely not the most fun job the first time, but after that you will get used to it.
If you found that the toaster didn’t clean as easily as you thought before, that’s because it was your first time. The next time, you will finish a lot faster.
Important before you continue toasting bread
It doesn’t matter what kind of toaster you have. Before you continue making toast and therefore before you plug it in make sure everything is completely dry. Check that the inside has not accidentally gotten wet, and check that the knobs are completely dry, if necessary, let the toaster dry a little longer before using it again. This is all for your own safety.
Removing melted cheese from the toaster
Crumbs in your toaster are already annoying, but melted cheese is absolutely no fun. This is because this can very easily drip onto the inside, and if you let this sit then it burns over and over again. Again, this is not too difficult. It just needs to be done carefully. Put the toaster on the counter and carefully clean it with a dish brush and some soapy water. Also, clean the toasted sandwich clamp and the appliance will be fresh again!