Toasters are one of the kitchen gadgets that get used on most days. Apart from the kettle, they are probably the most well-used items in the kitchen. They are also the one we are most likely to ignore when it comes to maintenance.

If the toaster is clean, it will not only deliver better tasting toast, but it will be safer. With dried crumbs which accumulate at the base there is always the risk of them catching fire.

Unplug first

Never stick anything into the toaster before unplugging it. If it is still plugged in you run the risk of causing an electrical shock or starting a fire. Once you have unplugged the toaster, let it cool before you start to clean it.

Invert the toaster

Keep the toaster over the trash bin and gently shake any loose crumbs out. If you are an avid bird watcher, you can even empty these out for the birds to enjoy. Be gentle when you shake them out as the inside of the toaster has delicate connections which keep the gadget working properly.

Unscrew the base

Many toasters come with a base which is designed to be unscrewed and removed so that the worst of the crumbs can be removed. Again, you can feed these to the birds if you like or throw them away.

Clean the base

Mix a solution of water and washing up liquid and wash the removable base if the toaster has one. This is the only part which you can wash in water. Mane sure that it is completely dry before reattaching.

Exterior

Wipe down the exterior of the toaster with the same soapy water but using a damp cloth rather than a wet one. If you need to remove pieces of bread which are stuck in the inside, do so with care, preferably with a wooden spoon so you don’t damage the wires.

Knobs and dials

Take care cleaning around these and use a damp cloth to clean them up.

Replace the base only when it is completely dry, reset the dials and plug the toaster in. Never be tempted to stick a knife into the toaster while it is still plugged in as this can give an electrical shock.

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