How to Clean a Toaster

The toaster often gets neglected when it comes time to clean the kitchen. Especially if your toaster is stored in a cabinet or appliance garage; it can become out of sight, out of mind.

Without proper cleaning, your toaster will not only look dirty, but built-up crumbs and grime can cause an unappetizing burning smell and eventually hinder your toaster’s performance. Here’s how to clean a toaster (take a few minutes to clean your other appliances while you’re at it!).

How to Clean the Inside of a Toaster

Most manufacturers recommend emptying the crumb tray after each use. Unplug the toaster and let it cool completely. Slide out the crumb tray. Shake the crumbs into your trash container. For stuck-on crumbs or residue, you can hand wash the crumb tray in the sink. Use warm soapy water and a soft dish brush or sponge (do not put it in the dishwasher).

Although you can’t deep clean the interior of your toaster, you can get rid of loose crumbs by holding it upside down over the trash can and giving it a good shake. Look inside to see if any pieces of food are stuck on the heating elements. Gently tap the toaster to knock out the pieces or use an old toothbrush to gently dislodge the pieces.

How to Clean the Outside of a Toaster

Once you’ve removed all the crumbs and debris that you can, clean the outside of the toaster to get rid of grease and fingerprints. Cleaning the outside of a toaster is quick and easy. Unplug the toaster and let it cool completely. Then simply wipe the toaster with a soft, damp cloth (we recommend microfiber cloths that are better at removing germs). Never use paper towels, abrasive cleaners or liquid cleaning products which can all damage the surface of your toaster.