If you own a toaster, take a few minutes to inspect it now, as ignoring it could become a serious safety hazard
From air fryers to coffee machines, kitchens are frequently packed with countless modern appliances, yet toasters remain essential when all you fancy is a simple slice of buttered toast for breakfast. They’re uncomplicated devices that don’t demand much upkeep, but this often means they get forgotten about and aren’t cleaned as frequently as they ought to be.
Most of us are guilty of having a toaster full of crumbs, and whilst it might not seem like a big deal, they can eventually become a safety threat. Nevertheless, David, a waste expert from Dump It Scotland, has emphasised that toaster crumbs present a huge fire risk due to how rapidly they can catch light and spread.
He said: “Neglecting to clean your toaster can lead to a build-up of crumbs, grease, and other debris, which can not only affect the taste of your toast but also pose a fire hazard. So, if you’re someone who enjoys the perfect slice of golden-brown toast in the morning, it’s time to pay attention to the cleanliness of your toaster.”
Toaster crumbs, pastry fragments and the oils in butter are extremely combustible, and each time you operate a toaster it will dehydrate these particles and make them more prone to igniting.
When they gather at the base of a toaster they rest extremely close to the heating element, and will accumulate in the appliance to obstruct airflow which can cause it to overheat. Over time, the toaster can become hotter, making it more likely to catch fire with each use, and once a crumb ignites it won’t just smoke or smoulder but can create flames that spread rapidly, reports the Express.
It is extremely important to regularly clean out a toaster as it is often a hidden danger in kitchens, and whilst it is fairly straightforward to clear out, it does require some attention to detail.
How to properly clean out a toaster
To start, unplug the toaster and allow it to cool down if it has been used recently. Then, locate the crumb tray at the bottom of the toaster.
Not many people realise their toaster has a removable tray designed for catching crumbs, but it is usually located on the bottom or side of the appliance.
Take the tray over to the bin and carefully shake it to get rid of any stubborn crumbs. If you have a lot of crumb build-up you may need to dislodge them with a soft brush.
Using a soft brush to clean the heating element inside the toaster can also help, as it removes built-up debris and dust – just be gentle when cleaning.
Clear out the rest of the toaster by simply turning it upside down and shaking out any remaining crumbs. Make sure to put a tea towel down before doing so to make it easier to tidy up.
You can then clean the outside of the toaster with a slightly damp cloth. Do not use excessive water and make sure the toaster is completely dry before you switch it on again.
Clearing away toast crumbs requires fewer than five minutes, yet giving your toaster a thorough clean at least once monthly helps stop debris from accumulating and maintains your kitchen’s safety standards.
