Q&A for How to Clean a Toaster

Because it's electric. A plugged in electric device can electrocute you if it's wet.

Toast it once with nothing inside at the lowest heat setting to get rid of the smell.

Usually that would be fine, but try to push it, not bang it. Also, if it is currently on, than this is a no-go.

You can turn it upside down and gently tap the bottom of the toaster. (It's best to do so over a sink or sheet of newspaper for easy cleanup.)

The same way you normally would with regular usage, just with more cleaning effort. Scrub thoroughly inside the toaster multiple times, and allow the toaster tray to soak for a period of time so that it removes any rust or dirt from not being used in a long time.

Immediately unplug it to prevent an electrical fire. Avoid using the toaster until it has thoroughly dried, which may take 24 hours or more. (Placing it on its side and blowing an electric fan into it will help.) After it’s dry, inspect for any visible damage. It should be okay to use.

Remove the crumb tray and shake it over the trash can to get rid of crumbs. If your toaster doesn't have a crumb tray, turn it upside down and gently shake out the crumbs. Wash the tray with warm, soapy water and dry it before putting it back. For the exterior, use a damp cloth to wipe it down. If there are stubborn stains, a bit of mild detergent can help. Avoid using metal objects or abrasive cleaners inside the toaster to prevent damage.

If your toaster opens at the bottom, it's designed for easy crumb removal. Unplug the toaster and let it cool first. Then, over the trash can, open the bottom hatch or panel to release the crumbs. You might need to gently tap the sides to get all the crumbs out. If there are stubborn bits, use a soft brush or cloth to gently clean the inside, but avoid using metal objects or harsh cleaning tools.

Use a soft, dry brush like a clean paintbrush or a new toothbrush to gently scrub the interior, which can help loosen grease and crumbs. For tougher grease, make a paste with baking soda and water, apply it with a toothbrush, scrub gently, and then remove the residue with a dry cloth or brush. Baking soda is great for absorbing grease. If possible, use a slightly damp cloth to wipe the inside, but be careful not to use too much water to avoid any liquid seeping into the electrical parts.

It's not ideal to use dishwashing liquid to clean the inside of a toaster. The liquid can seep into electrical components and create a fire. Instead, use dry methods like a soft brush or cloth to remove crumbs and debris. For stubborn stains, a paste of baking soda and water is safer.

The crumb tray is usually located at the bottom of the toaster and may slide out or have a small handle or notch. Gently slide or pull the tray out, checking to see if there’s a latch or if it requires a slight lift. Empty the crumbs into the trash, then wash the tray with warm, soapy water, rinse, and dry thoroughly.